asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will list the detailed costs of the work proceeding in New Palace Yard, broken down into items; and whether there is any increase in these costs over the price agreed.

The latest total order of cost for the work is £291,500. £54,500 of this was spent on Phase I, which comprised preparation of the central area to enable the early planting of trees. £16,500 of the Phase I cost was spent on work carried out by the Bailiff of the Royal Parks. The estimated cost of work on Phase II, which is not yet complete, is £237,000. This will involve paving the roadway with granite setts, providing a paved footpath, with granite scats, and installing a new entrance porch. There has been a very slight increase on the original estimated cost of Phase I.