§ Mr. Teddy Taylorasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry whether he will refer to the Monopolies and Mergers Commission the takeover bids promoted by the Cannon Group in the cinema industry; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. HowardThe acquisition of Screen Entertainment by the Cannon Group is currently being considered by the Director General of Fair Trading. My right hon. Friend will make his decision on whether it should be referred for further investigation by the Monopolies and Mergers Commission in the light of the Director General's advice. The Director General is not aware of any other bids for United Kingdom companies involving the Cannon Group.