§ 26. Sir John Biggs-Davisonasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what is the result of his Department's consideration of the Elders IXL bid for Allied Lyons plc.
§ Mr. ChannonMy right hon. and learned Friend, the former Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, announced the reference of this merger proposal to the Monopolies and Mergers Commission on 6 December. The commission was given six months in which to report.
As I am sure my hon. Friend appreciates, it would not be appropriate for me to comment on the issues involved while the investigation is in progress.