§ 21. Mr. Lyellasked the Secretary of State for Trade whether he intends to make any further referrals to the Monopolies and Mergers Commission under section 11 of the Competition Act 1980.
§ Mrs. Sally OppenheimAs I informed the House on 24 July, my right hon. Friend intends to refer a number of public sector bus undertakings to the commission. The undertakings to be included in the investigation are City of Cardiff Transport, West Midlands Passenger Transport Executive, and two National Bus Company subsidiaries, Bristol Omnibus Company—including Cheltenham District Traction Company—and Trent Motor Traction Company. The terms of reference, which will be announced shortly, will cover the principal aspects of the undertakings' efficiency in supply stage carriage services, including the use of manpower, maintenance procedures and investment planning. The commission will also be asked to consider whether any of the undertakings is in any way abusing a monopoly situation.