asked the Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection by what method his Department identifies proposed company mergers prior to consideration of a reference to the Monopolies and Mergers Commission.

The Director General of Fair Trading is responsible for keeping himself informed about existing and proposed mergers qualifying for investigation and for advising the Secretary of State. I understand that the parties to a merger frequently take the initiative in approaching the Director General. In addition, his staff keep a careful watch for reports of mergers and proposed mergers.