§ Dame Marion RoeTo ask the hon. Member for Roxburgh and Berwickshire, representing the House of Commons Commission what the arrangements are for the future of the Travel Office; and if he will make a statement. [179743]
§ Sir Archy KirkwoodThe Travel Office contract, managed jointly by the two Houses, has been let for a number of years to American Express. This contract will expire at the end of August. Following a full open competition under EU procurement rules, it has been decided to award the new contract to Carlson Wagonlit Travel (CWT). CWT will offer a wide range of services, including a continuing implant in the Palace of Westminster, access to preferential prices for both air and rail travel, foreign exchange, and an internet self-booking facility for those who wish to book online. It is expected that the Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations will apply, and the jobs of existing staff in the Travel Office will thus be protected.