To ask the Secretary of State for Energy what analysis has been made of the reasons why the fees paid out for advice on electricity privatisation in 1990–91 exceeded the original estimate.

The figure included in the main supply estimates for 1990–91 was based on the best estimate available in November 1989. Continuing and regular reassessments were made of the resources needed to complete the successful flotation of the electricity supply industry in that year. It was these that led to the additional provision which was sought, and approved by Parliament, in the 1990–91 spring supplementary estimates.