§ Norman BakerTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) what steps she takes to ensure that BNFLs engagement with US political parties and their representatives is consistent with(a) the national interest and(b) the interests of public funds; [80843]
(2) if she will take steps to prevent donations by BNFL to US political parties or lobbyists. [80872]
§ Mr. Wilson[holding answer 20 November 2002]BNFL is a public limited company and its Board is free to run the company day-to-day within the overall strategic framework set by HMG. Its activities are funded from its commercial activities, and not from public funds. I have raised this issue with the company and it has assured me that it has no intention of making any further political donations to US political parties.