§ Mr. Weetchasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what companies presently under the umbrella of the British Technology Group are currently being considered for disposal.
§ Mr. ButcherUnder the 1980 Guidelines for the NEB, the board is required to dispose of all its investments as soon as commercially practicable.
§ Mr. Weetchasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) what is the current situation in relation to the disposal of Bull Motors Ltd. by the British Technology Group; and whether steps are being considered in this context to preserve the firm as a provider of employment and as a source of competition;
(2) whether he will ensure that any disposal of Bull Motors Ltd. by the British Technology Group will be undertaken with firm safeguards to prevent asset-stripping;
(3) whether he will ensure that detailed discussions will take place with all parties who may be interested in acquiring Bull Motors from the British Technology Group.
§ Mr. ButcherThis is a matter for the British Technology Group in the first instance. My right hon. Friend has received no proposal from them in relation to the disposal of Bull Motors Ltd.