Ranks Hovis McDougall (Hansard, 25 July 1988)

HC Deb 25 July 1988 vol 138 cc27-8W 27W

§ Mr. Harry Greenway
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster if he will refer the current bid for28W Ranks Hovis McDougall to the Office of Fair Trading with a view to reference to the Monopolies and Mergers Commission; and if he will make a statement.

§ Mr. Maude
The proposed acquisition by Goodman Fielder of Ranks Hovis McDougall is being looked at by the Director General of Fair Trading under the provisions of the Fair Trading Act 1973. He will advise my right hon. and noble Friend in the normal way on the question of reference to the Monopolies and Mergers Commission in due course.