HC Deb 18 January 1988 vol 145 cc239-40W
Mr. Rooker

To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster if he will make a statement on the investigations into the purchase of the House of Fraser.

Mr. Newton

On 29 September my right hon. and noble Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry announced his intention to publish the report of the inspectors as soon as circumstances permit and on 25 November he announced his decision not to refer the takeover to the Monopolies and Mergers Commission. As the hon. Member will be aware both these decisions are the subject to proceedings for judicial review and it would not be appropriate for me to comment further on these matters at this stage.