Written question asked by Baroness Beckett (Labour), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 16 October 1996. It was answered by Richard Page (Conservative) on Wednesday, 16 October 1996 on behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry.

Dept of Trade and Industry

Question: What percentage and cash value of the shares in British Energy remain held on behalf of the Government. - Includes figures.

Answer: Mrs. Beckett: To ask the President of the Board of Trade what percentage and cash value of the shares in British Energy remain held on behalf of the Government; and if he will make a statement. [40709] Mr. Page: Up to 90 million shares were retained at the time of the share offer to cover the over-allotment option granted to BZW. Following settlement of that option on 13 August, the Secretary of State retained approximately 85.9 million shares, of which approximately 5 million shares are retained to cover potential entitlements to bonus shares under the UK public offer. The shares retained by the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry on behalf of the Government represent approximately 12 1/3 per cent. of the total shares.

Secondary information