§ Mr. RaynsfordTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what considerations have led him to set out the timetable for consultants to complete their tasks set out in the privatisation options study outline requirements; and if he will make a statement. [2433]
§ Mr. Robert B. JonesThe timetable for consultants to complete the study of privatisation options for the Building Research Establishment was set to be demanding but feasible for the completion of a wide-ranging and thorough project. It is in the interests of BRE's customers and staff for any uncertainty about the organisation's future to be kept to as short a period as practicable. All the consultants who were invited to submit tenders were able to comply with the maximum duration specified.
§ Mr. RaynsfordTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what date he has specified for the return of bids by consultants on the Building Research Establishment privatisation options study. [2408]
§ Mr. JonesThe bids for the consultants invited to tender for the study of the options for transferring the Building Research Establishment to the private sector were returned by 20 November.
The Department is today appointing P. A. Consulting to carry out the study.
§ Mr. RaynsfordTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment whom he proposes to appoint to the advisory group to which consultants will be expected to report on options for the privatisation of the Building Research Establishment. [2402]
§ Mr. JonesThe advisory group for the study on the options for transferring the Building Research Establishment to the private sector will be chaired by the deputy secretary housing and construction. The members will include three senior industry representatives, an official representing the Treasury, the chief executive of BRE and the departmental team responsible for the consultancy project.