HL Deb 23 October 2000 vol 618 cc9-10WA
Lord Cocks of Hartcliffe

asked the Chairman of Committees:

When Tuffin Ferraby and Taylor were appointed to survey the Houses of Parliament; how and by whom the appointment was made; what is the total cost; and whether he will give a breakdown of the costs between remuneration and estimated expenses; and [HL4189]

What was the remit given to Tuffin Ferraby and Taylor; and how many of their staff will be employed over what period of time. [HL4190]

The Chairman of Committees

Following competitive tendering, Tuffin Ferraby and Taylor were appointed in the summer of 2000 by the Parliamentary Works Directorate to carry out septennial condition surveys of the Palace. The cost of the commission is £69,460. There are no additional expenses. The work will take three to four surveyors and their assistants four months.

Lord Cocks of Hartcliffe

asked the Chairman of Committees:

What guidance has been given to the staff of Tuffin Ferraby and Taylor on answering questions from Members of the House. [HL4191]

The Chairman of Committees

They have been told to answer any questions from Members as fully as possible.

Lord Cocks of Hartcliffe

asked the Chairman of Committees:

What work has been undertaken previously for the Houses of Parliament by Tuffin Ferraby and Taylor; and what were the dates and cost of this. [HL4192]

The Chairman of Committees

This is the first commission for the Parliamentary Works Directorate carried out by Tuffin Ferraby and Taylor.

Lord Cocks of Hartcliffe

asked the Chairman of Committees:

When it is anticipated the report of Tuffin Ferraby and Taylor will be completed; to whom it will be submitted; and when it will be available to Members of the House of Lords. [HL4193]

The Chairman of Committees

The results of the survey will be submitted to the Director of Parliamentary Works in phases between October 2000 and the new year for the use of the Works Directorate in preparing the 10-year rolling programme.