§ Mr. Barry FieldTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if, in considering his evidence on the GEC—Siemens proposed bid for the Plessey company, he will seek assurances from the predator companies that their proposed collaboration with Plessey will not jeopardise his Department's range of choice in defence procurement.
§ Mr. SainsburyAs my hon. Friend will appreciate, the proposed bid has been referred to the Monopolies and Mergers Commission. All interested parties, including the MOD, have been asked for their view and we shall, of course, take into account all relevant factors before making our submission to the MMC.