To ask Her Majesty's Government whether the approved contractors in the Warm Front scheme are subject to routine monitoring to ensure that their quoted prices are competitive in each area where they work; who carries out the checks and how often; what proportion of quotations have been found to be higher than obtainable from other heating contractors not approved for Warm Front; and how long existing approved contractors will be able to operate before they have to reapply in competition with other contractors wishing to join the scheme. [HL193]

Warm Front prices have been set on a regional basis following fully competitive and audited tendering processes. This has ensured Warm Front prices reflect local market conditions.

The costs of materials used for Warm Front installations were set through bulk purchase agreements with suppliers, who were also chosen following a competitive tendering process.

DECC's independent quality assessors, White Young and Green have published an independent audit of prices, which concluded that Warm Front prices are significantly below those found in the wider market.

Warm Front is currently undergoing a full installer retendering exercise. Installers will be chosen according to a variety of criteria including prices submitted, health and safety procedures, financial probity and customer service provision. Successful contractors will begin working on the scheme from June 2009.