asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce the representations he has made to the EEC regarding its proposals on mergers; and if he will state the Government's views on what EEC policy should be in this matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Merger Policy.
31.
Proposals for a regulation to control concentrations or mergers above a certain size are at present being discussed by the member states. The proposals are as yet far from being finalised. While I have several reservations on important points of detail, I have indicated to the Community my general support for the proposition that very large mergers or take-overs should be made subject to the approval of the Commission.
Will the Minister state when his own Bill on mergers and monopolies will be before the House?
The question relates to EEC regulations on monopolies and mergers and the matter of EEC policy in this area.
Would the Minister like to say if the views held by the Commission will influence his legislation on monopolies and mergers?
That is a separate matter.
The Minister is being very secretive about it.
Is the delay of the EEC Commission in coming to an agreement on the type of Bill envisaged causing the Minister any difficulty in bringing in his own Bill before the House? Is this one of the reasons it is being delayed?
Obviously it is prudent to be aware of the on-going mind of the Commission in regard to a matter like this, even before the Commission decisions or regulations appear. There is no point in enacting legislation that will subsequently be in conflict with the regulations but that is not to say we anticipate any conflict. We do not anticipate conflict.
The Minister's difficulties are nearer home.