5.74 Lenders generally offer a floating rate of interest on their finance which is then fixed at financial close through an interest rate swap. The rate of interest is then inserted into the financial model and the financial model re: optimised. The rate of interest will be the market rate on the day of financial close. The process therefore does not distort competition or amount to discrimination and should still be permitted under competitive dialogue.
5.75 Following selection of the Preferred Bid, the Tenderer may be requested to "clarify aspects of its [final] tender or confirm commitments contained in the [final] tender." This is provided that the process does not "does not have the effect of modifying substantial aspects of the [final] tender or the call for [final] tenders does not risk distorting competition or causing discrimination."
5.74 The above implies that it is possible to have small amendments and discussion with the preferred bidder prior to contract award. However, this will be more restrictive than under negotiated procedures.