To ask the Chairman of Committees what assessment has been made of the additional costs to Parliamentary works projects arising out of any sittings of the House of Lords in September 2010. [HL2800]

It is estimated that a September sitting would, in total, add approximately £1.3 million to the cost of shared and Lords-only major works projects taking place over the summer, largely because of the need to accelerate or delay them. This does not include Commons-only projects.

To ask the Chairman of Committees what consultation has been undertaken with contractors regarding any disruption arising from or delays to Parliamentary works projects as a result of any sittings of the House of Lords in August or September 2010. [HL2802]

Discussions on this matter have been held with the contractor currently undertaking the cast iron roofs project. Contractors have not yet been appointed to the other major projects likely to be affected by an August or September sitting (the mechanical and electrical project and the fire safety works) but the tender documents will reflect these considerations.