Written question asked by Mike Hancock (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 4 July 2006, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 6 July 2006. It was answered by Vera Baird (Labour) on Tuesday, 11 July 2006 on behalf of the Department for Constitutional Affairs.

Online Census Project

Question: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Constitutional Affairs which contractors tendered by 30 June 2006 for work on the English and Welsh 1911 Online Census Project; and what her timetable is for appointment of a contractor.

Answer: The National Archives sought expressions of interest from suppliers through a notice published in the Official Journal of the European Union, the closing date for which was 4 July 2006.Conduct of this procurement process will follow normal practice on commercial confidentiality.All expressions of interest received by the closing date will be evaluated on 10 July 2006.On 11 July 2006 potential suppliers who are shortlisted will be invited to participate in the Competitive Dialogue process to be used for the contract.It is anticipated that a contract will be awarded in January 2007.Notification will be made in accordance with the Public Services Regulations.

Secondary information