§ Mr. SpearingTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will state the procedure he uses to re-assess106W the calculated yield of approved road schemes when tenders exceed the estimated figure used to justify the initial decision to construct the road; and what steps he takes when lowest tenders, if accepted in the contract, decrease the consequential yield to below the original qualifying figure.
§ Mr. Peter BottomleyDecisions to proceed with schemes are based on successive appraisals of their economics and other factors. Cost estimates are monitored and, when appropriate, the implications of changes for decisions are reviewed. When the lowest tender price significantly exceeds the Department's latest estimate, the situation is reviewed taking into account the relevant factors including the economic appraisal.