asked the Secretary of State for Industry when he expects the first Government shareholding to be transferred to the NEB.

Within a matter of days.

asked the Secretary of State for Industry when he expects to publish the guidelines governing the operation of the NEB.

My right hon. Friend hopes to publish the draft guidelines for the National Enterprise Board shortly.

asked the Secretary of State for Industry if he will make a statement on the operation so far of the NEB; and what progress he expects it to make in the next year.

The preparatory work undertaken by the NEB since it came into being on 20th November 1975 will enable it to carry out effectively its statutory functions in the months ahead.