§ 56. Mr. Laneasked the Minister of Power what proportion of the £65 million of capital expenditure by the British Steel Corporation between 30th September, 1968, and 31st March, 1969, was financed from internal resources.
§ Mr. MasonThe Corporation's capital expenditure in the six months between 30th September, 1968, and 31st March, 1969, amounted to £35 million. This was more than covered by internal resources. The figure of £65 million referred to by my right hon. Friend the Chief Secretary to the Treasury in the debate on the Second Reading of the Iron and Steel Bill on 8th May [Vol. 783, c. 785] covered requirements for working capital in the period as well, but not requirements to repay loans.
§ 57. Sir J. Edenasked the Minister of Power what were the capital requirements of the British Steel Corporation between 31st March and 30th September, 1968, and separately between 30th September, 1968, and 31st March, 1969.
§ 58. Sir J. Edenasked the Minister of Power what rate of interest is represented 54W by the £13 million which the British Steel Corporation have so far paid in respect of fixed interest on their commencing capital; and what period is covered by the payments.
§ Mr. MasonThe £13 million paid by the British Steel Corporation represents interest at 6½ per cent. on just under £134 million of its commencing capital for the period from vesting date up to 28th January, 1969.