§ 17. Mr. Marlowasked the Secretary of State for Industry whether he will make a statement on the financial performance of British Telecom.
§ Mr. Patrick JenkinThe report and accounts of British Telecom for 1981–82 will be published shortly. Indications are that it has met its financial target.
§ Mr. MarlowGiven the activities of monopolies in certain spheres, how will we know whether these are good or bad results?
§ Mr. JenkinMy hon. Friend is right. It is inherent in the nature of State monopolies that it is extremely difficult to ascertain whether they are as efficient as they might be. That is why, as my hon. Friend said, the Government are vigorously pursuing a policy of exposing British Telecom to increasing competition.