Dr Julian Lewis:  To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, whether he plans to take steps in respect of the reported attempt by China to take over Bacanora Lithium.  [24]

[Due for Answer on 17 May.] 

ANSWER

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (Paul Scully): Mergers and takeovers are primarily commercial matters for the parties involved. The Government has powers under the Enterprise Act 2002 to intervene in transactions which raise national security concerns. The Government has recently strengthened those powers through the National Security and Investment Act 2021.

The Government is aware of this proposed transaction and is monitoring developments closely.