§ Mr. Simon CoombsTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what are the criteria by which the Treasury will assess proposals for high street share shops; and how these will be integrated into the privatisation programme.
§ Mr. MaudeWe will be looking for share-dealing mechanisms which provide easy access by the small-scale shareholder for buying and selling shares, either on an execution-only basis or with support and advice where customers seek it. The outlets could be shops, counters or other means of local delivery. Applicants could be individual organisations or joint ventures. The operator of the service will need to be able to comply with the regulatory requirements of the Financial Services and other relevant Acts.
If suitable proposals come forward quickly enough, the Government would consider appointing a retail sales manager for the BT share sale to distribute shares through high street outlets.
520WI am delighted that a good deal of interest has already been expressed in this proposition.