asked the Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection if he will institute inquiries about the possibility of a local monopoly arising following the closure of the Spillers French bakery in Plymouth.

I am aware that as a result of the withdrawal of Spillers French from baking local monopolies may arise in some areas. The Director General of Fair Trading will be keeping a watch on the baking industry during the coming months and if he believes that there is evidence of abuse of a particular local monopoly position he will no doubt consider whether to exercise his powers under the Fair Trading Act 1973 to refer a local monopoly to the Monopolies and Mergers Commission. If the hon. Member has evidence of any such abuse she should contact the Director General.