§ 23. Mr. Chapmanasked the Secretary of State for Energy if he will make a statement on the recent flotation of British Gas.
§ Mr. Peter WalkerI refer my hon. Friend to the answer given earlier today to my hon. Friend the Member for Erewash (Mr. Rost).
§ Mr. ChapmanI have hurried back from abroad to ask this question only to find that it has already been answered. May I say to my right hon. Friend that the flotation of British Gas has been an undoubted success, and that many people look to the Governmeent to see further opportunities for similar flotations?
§ Mr. WalkerI am grateful to my hon. Friend for discovering Sid on the beaches of Barbados, and note the speed with which he returned. The flotation has been a widespread success and has given people the opportunity to participate in this important industry.
§ Mr. SkinnerDoes the Secretary of State expect the flotation of British Gas to be more successful in the long term than Slater Walker?
§ Mr. WalkerYes, so long as I remain Minister.