§ Sir Peter FryTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to his answer of 29 November,Official Report, columns 420–21, when his officials have discussed with the Civil Aviation Authority the issue of commissioning a balance of benefits study in 112W European procurement directive. Award criteria were set at the outset of the competition, and notified to the tenderers; bids were evaluated against these criteria.
§ Mr. EasthamTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what account he will take when considering funding for the Greater Manchester metrolink extension—Salford Quays to Eccles—of any subsidies paid to EU manufacturers successful in the competitive tendering; and if he will make it a condition of funding that no such subsidies have been or are being paid. [10653]
§ Mr. WattsFunding of £17.3 million for the Manchester metrolink extension to Eccles via Salford Quays, through the capital challenge programme, was announced on 16 December. Greater Manchester passenger transport executive is responsible for the award of tenders to build and operate the system.
State aids to manufacturers are regulated and policed by the European Commission. Her Majesty's Government would not knowingly provide support towards a contract to any firm which is in receipt of illegal state aid.