To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster under what section and subsections of the Companies Act he initiated his Department's inquiry into the affairs of the House of Fraser Holdings.

The inspectors were appointed to investigate the affairs of House of Fraser Holdings plc under the provisions of section 432(2) of the Companies Act 1985.

To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether the inspectors who considered the report dated 15 July 1988 submitted by buyers acting for the House of Fraser considered that report prior to its presentation to Ministers on 23 July 1988.

The inspectors considered fully and carefully all information and evidence received by them before submitting their report to my right hon. and noble Friend the Secretary of State.