§ Mr. Keith SimpsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will refer the proposed merger of BAe and GEC Marconi to the Monopolies and Mergers Commission. [65749]
§ Dr. Howells[holding answer 18 January 1999]: In the event of such a proposal, it would be necessary to determine whether the merger fell for consideration by the Commission under the EC Merger Regulation, or by the UK authorities under the Fair Trading Act 1973. If a merger fell for consideration under the Fair Trading Act, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry would decide whether or not to refer it to the Monopolies and Mergers Commission in the light of the advice of the Director General of Fair Trading. Each case is considered on its own merits.