§ 78. Mr. Peter Millsasked the Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection if, in the light of her policy of encouraging British farmers to improve their own marketing arrangements at their own expense, she will explain the reasons for Her Majesty's Government's decision to submit to the Monopolies Commission the NFU Development Trust's offer for FMC in an attempt by British farmers to organise marketing at their own expense.
§ Mr. Michael Lathamasked the Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection upon what general criteria she decided to refer to the Monopolies and Mergers Commission the bid by the NFU Development Trust Ltd. for the ordinary share capital of FMC Ltd.; and if she will make a statement.
§ Mr. Ridleyasked the Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection what were the reasons for the reference of the Fatstock Marketing Corporation to the 573W Monopolies Commission; and if she will reconsider the decision to refer it.
Mr. Alan WilliamsThe proposed acquisition of FMC Ltd. by the NFU Development Trust was referred to the Monopolies and Mergers Commission for investigation and report because it raised substantial questions of public interest.
The reference does not prejudge whether or not the acquisition would be contrary to the public interest; that is for the commission to report after investigation. I intend to await the outcome of the commission's inquiry.