Liberal Democrats in Business

News and views from the Lib Dem Treasury, Trade and Industry Teams and Business Forum

SAFEWAY TAKEOVER FIRST TEST FOR INDEPENDENT COMPETITION COMMISSION

1.43.38pm BST (GMT +0100) Thu 8th May 2003

Dr. Vincent Cable MP speaking in Parliament

Commenting on the 'issues' letter released by the Competition Commission outlining their concerns regarding the Safeway takeover bids, Vince Cable MP, Liberal Democrat Shadow DTI Secretary, said:

"Each of the takeover bids for Safeway looks certain to raise issues of consumer choice."

"Each of the rival bidders have substantial political influence and sophisticated lobbying operations. Under the old competition system, the matter would be resolved by politicians listening to these powerful lobbies."

"The new system should ensure that the decision is made on its merits by the Competition Commission. It is imperative for the future that the independence of the Competition Commission is maintained, and the Safeway takeover is an important first test of the new competition regime."

[Print this story]
[Previous story]: HSE BUDGET CUTS RISK WORKERS' SAFETY - CABLE (Tue 6th May 2003).
[Next story]: Business leaders are disappointed by the Bank of England's decision to hold interest rates at 3.75 per cent. (Thu 8th May 2003).
[Other news stories from May 2003 (38)]

Related News Stories:

Thu 18th Mar 2004:

Printed and hosted by Prater Raines Partners, 82b Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BX.
Published and promoted by Liberal Democrats in Business, 4 Cowley Street, London SW1P 3NB.
The views expressed are those of the party, not of the service provider.