§ Mr. Hugh Jenkinsasked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in his consideration of the proposed merger 314W between Martins Bank and the National Provincial Bank, he will ensure that the public interest is maintained where it may conflict with the shareholders' interests.
§ Mr. CroslandI assume that my hon. Friend is referring to the proposed merger between Barclays, Lloyds and Martins Banks. I have already referred this merger to the Monopolies Commission, which will, of course, take account of the public interest when it makes its report to me.