§ Mr. SweeneyTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what arrangements for compulsory competitive tendering for work subject to the provisions of the Local Government, Planning and Land Act 1980 will apply to local authorities. [3524]
§ Mr. Gwilym JonesMy right hon. Friend has given very careful consideration to the timetable for the re-introduction of compulsory competitive tendering for this work after local government reorganisation. We have consulted on the regulations which provide for the re-introduction of compulsory competitive tendering and, separately, have received representations that a number of local authorities are continuing to have operational difficulties in complying with the timetable which was announced in June 1995.
My right hon. Friend has concluded that authorities should be given an additional six months for the re-introduction of compulsory competitive tendering for this work, that is to 1 October 1997. Welsh Office officials have written today to local authorities and other interested parties seeking comments on this proposal. A copy of this letter has been placed in the Library of the House.
An announcement on the way in which compulsory competitive tendering will be extended to professional services and housing management will be made shortly.