HC Deb 11 December 1962 vol 669 c33W
48. Mr. Eden

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works if he will make a statement on Government policy on firm price tendering.

Mr. Rippon

So far as Government contracts are concerned I am satisfied that the policy of inviting firm price tenders for contracts of two years or less for building and civil engineering work has been successful. Many other building owners, including public authorities, too often invite tenders before the job has been properly planned; bills of quantities are issued to tenderers which fail fully to describe the work; necessary drawings and specifications are not always provided and sub-contractors are not nominated sufficiently early to allow the works to proceed in orderly fashion. There is need too for the prompt acceptance of tenders. If a tenderer is to give a firm price it is reasonable for him to look for acceptance within two months. The whole basis of the tender is undermined where the starting of the work is delayed or excessive variations are subsequently introduced.