HC Deb 03 July 1995 vol 263 cc67-8W
Mr. Wilson

To ask the President of the Board of Trade what representations have been made by ministers or officials of his Department to the receiver of Astra plc concerning access to and availability of documentary material returned to the company by the Ministry of Defence Police. [31433]

Mr. Jonathan Evans

[holding answer 30 June 1995]: It is for the administrative receivers of Astra Holdings plc to decide what access they allow to the company's papers. Before my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade appeared before the Trade and Industry Select Committee on 28 June, officials informally raised with the receivers the question of disclosure to the Select Committee and were informed that legal advice had been sought.

Mr. Wilson

To ask the President of the Board of Trade if he will list by convenient category the documents removed from Astra plc and its subsidiaries which are restrained by his Department. [31432]

Mr. Evans

[holding answer 30 June 1995]: The papers of Astra Holdings plc are now held by the administrative receiver. The inspectors appointed to investigate the affairs of the company made and retained copies of documents relevant to their investigation. These principally comprise certain statutory material, financial and accounting records and information, correspondence, internal and external memoranda and reports.