HC Deb 25 November 1987 vol 123 c212W
31. Mr. Madden

To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what representations he has received about any proposed takeover of the Pearson Group.

Mr. Kenneth Clarke

Eight letters have been received by my Department including one from the hon. Gentleman. Major newspaper mergers are regulated by special provisions in the Fair Trading Act 1973 and we shall rigorously examine all applications for consent which are put to us.