§ Mr. JenkinTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what assessment has been made of the likely cost of(a) clearing the site and (b) clearing asbestos from the site at Holyrood before construction can commence on the new Parliament building. [29499]
§ Mr. DewarClearing the site at Holyrood is estimated to cost in the region of £500,000. The only known asbestos which presents a hazard is to be removed by Scottish and Newcastle plc before vacating the site. Any unforeseen asbestos hazard which is subsequently encountered will be dealt with through a general contingency provision in the missives under which the company will bear a substantial share of the cost of removal.