HL Deb 22 May 1989 vol 508 cc141-2WA
Lord Mottistone

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they are satisfied that all vital United Kingdom defence interests could be fully safeguarded by the recommendations of the Monopolies and Mergers Commission for a possible merger between GEC plc, Siemens AG and the Plessey Company plc.

Viscount Long

The Monopolies and Mergers Commission concluded in its report that the bid by GEC and Siemens for Plessey could proceed provided certain undertakings were secured. My noble friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry placed responsibility on the Ministry of Defence to secure satisfactory undertakings to safeguard United Kingdom defence interests, and discussions to this end are now in hand. The assurances necessary to safeguard these interests will depend upon the successful conclusion of these discussions.