§ Mr. WilshireTo ask the President of the Board of Trade when he hopes to be able to announce his decision on the proposed take over of Courage Ltd. by Scottish and Newcastle plc. [26507]
§ Mr. Jonathan EvansThe Director General of Fair Trading at the Office of Fair Trading is currently considering this proposed takeover and he will advise my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade in due course. A decision on whether it should be referred to the Monopolies and Mergers Commission will be taken once that advice is received.