Mr. Richard Scannell:

It is difficult for me to say whether it is in the interest of policy. As we understand it, the legal advice that has been received provides that because of public procurement law, unfortunately no further extension can be granted. That basically precludes any bridging contract or any such device to allow prolongation of the initiative. An extension is effectively off the table; there would have to be a new tender before the programme could continue on the basis of a renewed contract.