HC Deb 08 May 1986 vol 97 c219W
Mr. Denzil Davies

asked the Secretary of State for Defence how much revenue he expects the share flotation of Royal Ordnance plc is likely to yield to the Exchequer.

Mr. Norman Lamont

The price obtainable will depend on a number of factors, such as the trading record and stock market conditions, at the time of the sale.

Mr. Denzil Davies

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether the prospectus to be issued in line with the Government's intention to privatise the royal ordnance factories will contain a profit forecast for the next financial year.

Mr. Norman Lamont

On the assumption that a prospectus for Royal Ordnance is issued in mid-1986, a profit forecast for the next financial year would refer to calendar year 1987. It would be most unusual for any company to make a public profit forecast that far ahead and it is not expected that Royal Ordnance would do so.

Mr. Denzil Davies

asked the Secretary of State for Defence when he intends to publish the prospectus offering for sale shares in Royal Ordnance plc.

Mr. Norman Lamont

The Government hope that the sale of Royal Ordnance could take place in mid-1986, but no date has yet been fixed.