HC Deb 07 November 2002 vol 392 c747W
Mr Flight

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what criteria British Energy will have to meet in order for them to gain an extension to their loan agreement with the Government. [78987]

Mr.Wilson

No decisions have been taken and no commitments given on British Energy's long term future at this time.

Mr.Flight

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry under what terms the Government loan was agreed with British Energy; and whether these terms are under review. [78988]

Mr.Wilson

I refer the hon. Member to the answer given on 15 October 2002,Official Report, c.665W, to the hon. Member for South Suffolk (Mr. Yeo) about the credit facility agreement provided to British Energy.

Llew Smith

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what interest rate was attached to the recent loan made to British Energy; and what contingencies have been put in place in the event that British Energy is unable to repay the loans. [80345]

Mr. Wilson

Full details of the credit facility agreement are commercially confidential unless and until it is made public by British Energy. The Government has taken security over British Energy's assets for the facility provided to the company.

Llew Smith

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, what communications she has had with the European Commissioner Monti in respect of the loan provided to British Energy. [80383]

Mr. Wilson

My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry met Commissioner Monti on 10 October to discuss various matters including rescue aid to British Energy.