§ Mr. GardinerTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how he proposes to use his special share to protect consumers in the impending break up of Transco by British Gas plc. [67336]
§ Mr. BattleThe effect of the Government's special share in BG plc is to prohibit any person from having an interest in shares which carry 15 per cent. or more of the total votes attaching to the shares in BG plc. Given their market-sensitive nature, significant announcements about policy towards the special share would be made through the Stock Exchange. The interests of consumers are protected through the regulatory system; this is enforced by the Director General of Gas Supply, and is currently under review by the Government.
§ Mr. GardinerTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what discussions he has had with British Gas plc about the break up and sale of Transco. [67335]
§ Mr. BattleI meet the Chief Executive of BG plc from time to time to discuss matters of common interest.