HC Deb 14 March 1980 vol 980 cc760-1W
Mr. Stokes

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether the Royal Mint has any plans to market minting technology overseas.

Mr. Peter Rees

The Royal Mint and Thomas De La Rue and Company Limited propose to participate equally in a company to be known as Royal Mint Services Limited, the main purpose of which will be to provide Government authorities with advice and assistance in the construction, equipping, modernisation or organisation of their mints. The initial share capital of the company will be £1,000 and the Crown's involvement will be limited to that of a 50 per cent. shareholder.

An agreement between the Royal Mint and Thomas De La Rue and Company Limited will provide for a change in the title of the company in the event of the Royal Mint ceasing to have an interest. The Royal Mint will nominate the chairman of Royal Mint Services Limited.

Arrangements have been agreed to provide the Comptroller and Auditor General with adequate access to the books and records of the company.