§ 18. Mr. Dalyellasked the Secretary of State for Employment and Productivity 1687 what studies she is making of the economic and social consequences of mergers which have taken place.
§ Mrs. CastleThe results of a pilot research study commissioned by the Government have recently become available and are being studied to see whether a broader programme of research would be worth while.
§ Mr. DalyellWhat discoveries are emerging about the long-term effects of mergers?
§ Mrs. CastleAs I explained in my answer, what we have carried out so far is a pilot study, the object of which was to attempt to assess the development flowing from a merger which took place five years ago. We are now considering whether a more extensive programme, involving a number of mergers and dealing also with more general studies would be worthwhile.
§ Mr. Dudley SmithHas the right hon. Lady had her attention called to the debate late last night when the whole question of the merger of the Prices and Incomes Board and the Monopolies Commission was condemned on all sides? In view of the outstanding speech by her right hon. Friend the Member for Batter-sea, North (Mr. Jay), a former President of the Board of Trade, who proved conclusively that this was a bad thing, would she look at it again?
§ Mrs. CastleI am sure that the hon. Gentleman is aware that this is an entirely different question. I would be very happy indeed to deal with the merits of the proposed merger at the appropriate time.