HC Deb 25 March 1976 vol 908 cc250-1W
Mr. Prescott

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many apppointments the Government have made to the Board of the British Petroleum Company; who were appointed; and how long is their period of appointment.

Mr. Dell

The present Government directors are Lord Greenhill of Harrow—appointed 8th November 1973—and Mr. Tom Jackson—appointed 12th March 1975. They hold office for three years.

Mr. Prescott

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what financial guidelines the Government provides for the financial guidance of British Petroleum; and whether he has any plans to change these.

Mr. Dell

None, apart from the statutory requirements of the Companies Act.

Mr. Prescott

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is now the proportion of shares held by the Government in the British Petroleum Company.

Mr. Dell

The Government own 48.2 per cent. of the ordinary shares of the company, and the Bank of England bought a further 20.15 per cent. of the shares in January 1975.