§ Mr. John MarshallTo ask the President of the Board of Trade when the Office of Fair Trading started its inquiry into Milk Marque; and when it is expected to report. [32645]
Mr. John M. TaylorThe Office of Fair Trading has been closely monitoring developments in the milk market since its deregulation in November 1994. During this time, the office has received a number of complaints about alleged abuses of monopoly power by Milk Marque. It is for the Director General of Fair Trading to consider whether there are grounds for him to use his powers under the provisions of the Fair Trading Act 1973 to make a monopoly reference to the Monopolies and Mergers446W Commission. He hopes to reach a decision at the earliest opportunity.