§ 88. Mr. Robert Edwardsasked the President of the Board of Trade what discussions took place between his Department and British Petroleum and Distillers concerning the proposed merger of Distillers Chemical and Plastic Establishments with British Petroleum; how far this merger reduces governmental control of British Petroleum; what guarantees were forthcoming on the continued employment of industrial workers and technicians in the 20 chemical and plastics establishments of Distillers; and whether he discussed with the trade unions concerned the effects of this merger on employees of the companies concerned.
§ Mr. JayMy Department discussed this merger with both companies in the usual way. British Petroleum assured me that it had no intention of closing down any of the plants it would take over and I did not consider it necessary to hold further talks. The Government holding in British Petroleum is a matter for my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer.