Merger Update

Merger clearance

The OFT has decided, on the information currently available to it, not to refer the following merger to the Competition Commission under the provisions of the Enterprise Act 2002:

Anticipated acquisition by Barclays Bank plc of certain assets of ING Direct N.V., including its UK retail savings and residential mortgage businesses

The text of this decision will be placed on the Office of Fair Trading's website at www.oft.gov.uk as soon as is reasonably practicable.

In the event of media enquiries, please call the OFT Press Office on 020 7211 8899.