HC Deb 28 June 1960 vol 625 c98W
55. Mr. C. Osborne

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will appoint a suitable committee to inquire into the effects of amalgamations and take-overs on the internal competitive ability of British industry and the extent to which these are leading to unofficial price fixing, and consequently to higher prices; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. J. Rogers

My right hon. Friend is not satisfied that there is at present sufficient need for an inquiry such as my hon. Friend suggests. With regard to unofficial price fixing, he may wish to know that an agreement or arrangement between two or more parties carrying on business in the United Kingdom as to the price to be charged for those goods which they produce or supply, is registrable under the Restrictive Trade Practices Act, 1956, and so becomes a matter for consideration by the Restrictive Practices Court.