§ Mr. Freesonasked the Secretary of State for Industry how many companies he estimates would be adversely affected through a loss of British Gas marketing support for their manufactures in the event of British Gas being divested of its entire retailing activity; what effect he estimates this would have on imports; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MacGregor[pursuant to his reply, 1 June 1981]: I have received some representations from manufacturers and others about the possible effects of a cessation of British Gas' entire retailing activities. These views are being taken into account in the Government's consideration of this question, but I cannot anticipate the outcome.