§ Mr. Tim SmithTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether he has received the advice of the Director General of Fair Trading as to whether the report of the inspectors on the affairs of House of Fraser (Holdings) plc demonstrates the existence of new material facts such as to justify a reference to the Monopolies and Mergers Commission.
§ Mr. MaudeYes. On 25 November, in accordance with the advice of the Director General of Fair Trading, my right hon. and noble Friend, the Secretary of State, announced his decision not to refer the acquisition in 1984 and 1985 by Al Fayed Investment and Trust (UK) plc of House of Fraser plc.