§ Mr. DonohoeTo ask the hon. Member for Roxburgh and Berwickshire, representing the House of Commons Commission, if the Commission has agreed which company should be offered the contract to operate the Travel Office following the expiry of the current contract with American Express; and if he will make a statement. [92196]
§ Mr. KirkwoodThe existing contract for travel agency services, currently provided by American Express, ends on 31 August 1999. Following a full open competition, the Commission has endorsed a recommendation by a tender board to award the new contract to American Express. The new contract will run from 1 September for a period of three years, although it is extendable for a further two years. Enhancements to the existing services provided have been insisted upon; for example, Eurostar tickets will be available on-site from this autumn, following the installation of a ticket machine. In addition, American Express travel consultants will, wherever372W possible, routinely give alternative quotations to ensure that best value for money is achieved. In the interest of the House, and therefore taxpayers, the Travel Office will also actively pursue options for further discounts and rebates from airlines and railway companies.