Grounds Maintenance Contracts

HC Deb 21 May 1993 vol 225 cc355-6W

Mr. Hague

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment how many cases of anti-competitive behaviour by local authorities in awarding grounds maintenance contracts were reported to his Department in 1992; and what action was taken as a result.

Mr. Robin Squire

An analysis of all anti-competitive cases received by the Department in 1992 is to be carried out during the summer. I will write to my hon. Friend before the recess with the results in respect of ground maintenance cases.

During the first four months of 1993, 32 new anti-competitive complaints involving ground maintenance work were received. As at the end of April, four statutory notices have been served; in 17 cases we have decided not to proceed to statutory action; and the remainder are under consideration.