asked the Minister of Transport if he will henceforth call for tenders for the design as well as the construction of civil engineering works.

No, Sir. I do not consider that tenders on a design and construction basis are suitable for road works in the conditions obtaining in this country.

Is my right hon. Friend aware that probably large savings could be made in the cost of major constructions if we had competition in design as well as in construction? Would not he go as far as doing a few experimental projects of this sort, as this is what is done in America with great benefit?

There are many arguments for and against design and construction contracts, but most of the civil engineering work in my Department is confined to the construction of roads, where there is little scope for various designs. In some sorts of civil engineering work it might be desirable to allow contractors to put in alternative designs, but in respect of road work the scope is very limited.

In view of the unsatisfactory nature of that reply, I beg to give notice that I shall endeavour to raise the matter on the Adjournment.