§ Mr. CohenTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, pursuant to his answer of 1 June 1998,Official Report, column 118, what is the current estimated public cost of the disqualification proceedings against the directors of Astra Holdings. [57608]
§ Dr. HowellsPayments totalling £355,500 have been made to 5 of the 6 respondent directors in the disqualification proceedings. The only significant costs remaining outstanding are those of one legally aided respondent, Gerald James, whose solicitors have been paid £400,000 on account but the final figure has not yet been determined. In addition, the costs of the Treasury Solicitor acting for the Department are estimated at £280,000.