§ Mr. Biffenasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what undertakings he has sought from and been given by Guest Keen and Nettlefolds concerning the future administration of Miles 404W Bruce in the event of a successful bid and in the absence of any reference to the Monopolies Commission.
§ Sir G. HoweNone.
§ Mr. Biffenasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will indicate what provisions in the Treaty of Paris he considers prevent him from referring the proposed Guest Keen and Nettlefolds bid for Miles Bruce to the Monopolies Commission.
§ Sir G. HoweThe essential issues raised by the proposed merger are covered by Article 66(2) of the Treaty of Paris, and under that article are for the European Commission to determine. There were no matters of public interest arising from other issues sufficient to justify a reference to the Monopolies and Mergers Commission.
§ Mr. Biffenasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make available to Parliament the observations that he submitted to the EEC Commission concerning the Government's policy towards the proposed Guest Keen and Nettlefolds bid for Miles Bruce.
§ Sir G. HoweNo. Comments made to the EEC Commission were based on information obtained in confidence from the parties and others concerned.