§ Mr. Cyril Smithasked the Secretary of State for Transport what kind of cement was used to repair crumbling parts of the M5-M6 motorway around the Bescot, Birmingham area; why foreign-made cement was used; what is the net cost of the abortive work; and if he will make a statement as to the future purchasing policy of his Department in this regard.
§ Mr. FowlerThe seatings of the M6 viaduct bearings at Bescot were repaired using BETEC grout, a German product. At the time the contract was let only two materials meeting the technical requirements were known to be available. Both were German products and it was the contractor who chose to use BETEC.
It has been reported by inspectors that out of the 2,130 bearings at Bescot repaired in 1978, 10 have slight cracking. This is being investigated and I will let the hon. Member know the cost of remedial works.
For all contracts or purchases placed from my Votes I shall continue to try to ensure that British firms are used wherever they can meet the requirements competitively.
§ Mr. Rookerasked the Secretary of State for Transport if he proposes to give a waiver in respect of structural liability to suppliers of repair grout to be used on the elevated sections of the Midland link motorways.
§ Mr. Fowler[pursuant to his reply, 2 February 1981, c. 48]: No.
§ Mr. Rookerasked the Secretary of State for Transport if United Kingdom manufacturers will be invited to tender to supply the repair grout required for the elevated sections of the Midland link motorways.
§ Mr. Fowler[pursuant to his reply, 2 February 1981, c. 48]: Yes, if they meet the specification.