HC Deb 20 July 2001 vol 372 cc601-2W
Norman Baker

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she will list the actions taken to help provide banking facilities for Huntingdon Life Sciences; and if she will make a statement. [5693]

Ms Hewitt

DTI has maintained regular contact with Huntingdon Life Sciences plc, as part of its industry sponsorship function. It was agreed at the time of the re-funding of the company that the Department would, if necessary, provide basic banking facilities. The Government considered a number of options regarding provision of banking facilities to HLS. Owing to intimidation of bank staff by animal rights extremists, Huntingdon Life Sciences has not yet been able to find a commercial bank to provide banking services.

My Department has, therefore, undertaken to operate basic banking facilities for Huntingdon Life Sciences while negotiations with banks continue. It is not providing overdraft facilities or other financial support. My Department will be recovering the direct costs of providing this service from the company.