§ Mr. Freudasked the Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection by what method his Department identifies proposed company mergers prior to consideration of a reference to the Monopolies and Mergers Commission.
§ Mr. John FraserThe Director General of Fair Trading is responsible for keeping himself informed about existing and proposed mergers qualifying for investigation and for advising the Secretary of State. I understand that the parties to a merger frequently take the initiative in approaching the Director General. In addition, his staff keep a careful watch for reports of mergers and proposed mergers.