Government-appointed Directors

HC Deb 20 July 1971 vol 821 cc250-1W

47. Mr. Douglas

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will institute an interdepartmental survey of the functions and terms of reference of Government-appointed directors on the boards of joint stock companies, with particular regard to ensuring that there is no conflict of interest arising from their responsibilities to the Government and any other directorships held.

Mr. John Davies

No. The rôle of Government-appointed directors was outlined in the reply given to my hon. Friend the Member for Bedford (Mr. Skeet) on 28th June. The Government take into account the possibility of conflicts of interest arising when considering appointments.

48. Mr. Douglas

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he is satisfied with the methods employed by the various Departments of State in analysing and acting upon the reports which they receive from Government directors on the boards of joint stock companies; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. John Davies

Yes, but we are always seeking to improve our working methods.