§ Mr. FisherTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many applications have been made for newspaper acquisitions under the terms of the Fair Trading Act 1973 since 19 December 1980; and how many of these were refused.
§ Mr. RedwoodSince 19 December 1980, decisions have been taken on 66 applications. Sixty-two consents have been given, of which two were given conditionally.
A number of applications have also been received which have been withdrawn before any final decision has been taken.