HC Deb 14 February 1966 vol 724 cc188-9W
Mr. Hamling

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the International Publishing Corporation intends to acquire a one-third interest in Farlways Limited, the multiple newsagents; and, in view of the monopoly situation this will create, if he will refer the transaction to the Monopolies Commission.

Mr. Darling

I presume my hon. Friend is referring to Forbuoys Ltd.

I have no reason to believe that the acquisition to which my hon. Friend refers falls within the scope of the Monopolies and Mergers Act 1965. It does not appear to create or intensify a monopoly situation; neither do the assets of Forbuoys exceed five million pounds.

Mr. Hamling

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will refer to the Monopolies Commission the tendency towards monopoly interest in the position of the International Publishing Corporation in the publication of periodicals.

Mr. Darling

I have no power to refer a tendency towards monopoly to the Monopolies Commission. While monopoly may exist in particular types of periodicals, I have no evidence at present to suggest that an investigation into the supply of these is required in the public interest.