asked the Secretary of State for Energy if, when he next exercises his power of appointment of auditors under the Gas Act 1972, he will have regard to comparative records of performance of various firms of accountants in relation to inflation accounting.

The way in which the effects of inflation are provided for in the British Gas Corporation's accounts is a matter for the corporation rather than its auditors. I have no reason to suppose that the form of the accounts would be different if other auditors were appointed.