BIDVEST PLC/BRAKE BROS PLC

REFERENCE LAID ASIDE

The Competition Commission has laid aside the reference concerning the proposed acquisition by Bidvest PLC of Brake Bros PLC

The reference was made to the Competition Commission on 27 June 2002 by Melanie Johnson, Competition Minister.

The Commission has concluded that Bidvest has, within the terms of section 75(5) of the Fair Trading Act 1973, abandoned the proposal to make arrangements for the acquisition. The Commission has accordingly, with the consent of the Minister, laid the reference aside.

Notes to Editors

The reference was made by Melanie Johnson, Competition Minister, on 27 June 2002 (see DTI News Release P/2002/408). It has been laid aside in accordance with the provisions of section 75(5) of the Fair Trading Act 1973.