§ Mr. Leeasked the Secretary of State for Trade if he will intervene to prevent any take-over of London City and West-cliff Properties by Lonrho pending the outcome of all legal proceedings and his Department's investigations involving directors of Lonrho; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Clinton DavisI have no power to intervene in any proposed takeover by one company of another. The Department's investigations have been completed; any legal proceedings are not for me. A reference to the Monopolies and Mergers Commission would be a matter for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection.