HL Deb 28 January 1997 vol 577 cc88-9WA
Lord Spens

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether the inspectors, appointed in December 1986, to investigate the affairs of Guinness plc have completed their report and, if not, what are the reasons for the delay; and when do the inspectors expect to be in a position to complete their report.

The Minister of State, Department of Trade and Industry (Lord Fraser of Carmyllie)

The inspectors appointed to investigate and report on the affairs of Guinness plc have not yet completed their enquiries which were suspended during the Guinness criminal trials. Following the conclusion of the last of those trials the inspectors are working towards completion of their final report.

Lord Spens

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether, in the light of the recent judgment in the European Court of Human Rights in Saunders v. the United Kingdom, they still intend to publish the report of the inspectors into the affairs of Guinness plc and, if so, what is the date when publication is expected.

Lord Fraser of Carmyllie

Publication of the report of the inspectors appointed to investigate the affairs of Guinness plc and its take-over of Distillers plc will be considered by the President of the Board of Trade when the report is submitted.