Public Equity Capital

HC Deb 30 March 1973 vol 853 cc430-2W

Mr. Bruce-Gardyne

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the total amount of public equity capital outstanding; and what was the return upon it in the financial year 1972–73.

Mr. Higgins

The amount of public dividend capital outstanding is £625 million, of which £500 million is held by the British Steel Corporation and £125 million by the British Airways Board.

As the financial results of these industries for 1972–73 will not be finalised for some months, my hon. Friend will appreciate that it is not possible to state the amount of dividend which will be paid for the year.