asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster the total value of the manufacturing plant belonging to the Government being used by private firms; and to what extent and on what terms are the firms allowed to use the plant for their own work?

The value of the plant to which I understand the hon. Member to refer may be estimated as about £13,500,000. Under the arrangements made the use of the plant for private purposes would require the assent of the Department concerned and a commercial rent would be payable for such use.