§ 25. Mr. Oramasked the President of the Board of Trade if his consultations about the recommendations of the Monopolies Commission on chemical fertilisers will include discussions with Fisons, Limited, on the level of their profits.
§ Mr. J. RodgersYes, Sir.
§ Mr. OramHas the Minister noticed that the chairman of Fisons has recently been trying to have it both ways? When the Commission's Report was published he quoted more recent figures than those available to the Commission in order to prove that profitability was down, but when a fortnight later he wanted to impress the shareholders of British Drug Houses he quoted still more recent figures to show that profits had recently been doubled. What action will the hon. Gentleman take to make sure that the public interests are served?
§ Mr. RodgersDiscussions with Fisons have already begun this month. It would be premature for me to say what the outcome of these talks will be.