That this House notes the bid by Kalon Group plc for Manders plc; notes that Kalon have stated in their offer document that their objective is to achieve an increased market share of the paint market, and in the process cut 500 jobs from the workforce of a combined group; notes that a takeover of Manders would leave Kalon with over 70 per cent. of the own-label paint market; notes that such an outcome would leave many small retailers dependent on Kalon for the supply of own-label paints; believes a merger would threaten a reduction in competition against the public interest; and calls upon the President of the Board of Trade and Secretary of State for Trade and Industry to refer this bid to the Monopolies and Mergers Commission for further investigation.

That this House notes the bid by Kalon Group plc for Manders plc; notes that Kalon have stated in their offer document that their objective is to achieve an increased market share of the paint market, and in the process cut 500 jobs from the workforce of a combined group;...