§ Mr. GummerTo ask the Minister without Portfolio if he will make a statement on the arrangements for seeking a new supplier for the covering of the Millennium Dome; when the previous contractor was informed of his failure; and what assessment he has made of the degree of compliance with the provisions of the EU regulations on tendering. [37692]
§ Mr. Mandelson[holding answer 6 April 1998]: The original competitive tendering process, in accordance with domestic and EU public procurement requirements, invited bids for both PVC and PTFE. Following the New Millennium Experience Company's (NMEC) review of its options, after the letting of the PVC contract, both Koch Hightex's and Birdair's bids for PTFE were considered and both companies were given the opportunity to reconsider their original tender price. The NMEC acted according to EU requirements throughout.
§ Mr. GummerTo ask the Minister without Portfolio if the original contract for the covering of the Millennium Dome is still valid. [37693]
§ Mr. Mandelson[holding answer 6 April 1998]: The original contract for a PVC roof covering has been terminated by the New Millennium Experience Company (NMEC) in accordance with the terms of that contract.
§ Mr. GummerTo ask the Minister without Portfolio if the new contractor for the covering of the Millennium Dome is on schedule with his work. [37688]
§ Mr. Mandelson[holding answer 6 April 1998]: Birdair, the company putting the roof covering on the Dome, is due to complete its work by early summer. This is on schedule.