To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what timetable he has set for the appointment of an independent valuer in respect of the compensation scheme for shareholders of Bradford and Bingley. (263622)

On 10 March 2009, the Government announced that they were inviting applications for the position of independent valuer to assess any compensation that may be payable to former holders of the shares in Bradford and Bingley plc that were transferred to the Treasury in September last year (and other specified persons affected by the transfer).

The closing date for applications is 7 April 2009. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to present to a selection panel in May 2009. Thereafter, the panel will submit their recommendation to Treasury Ministers. Further details can be found on the Treasury website at:

www.hm-treasury.gov.uk/valuer