The CC has been asked to decide whether the merger may be expected to result in a substantial lessening of competition in any market in the UK for the supply of Blue Stilton cheese.

The OFT says that the merger combines two of the only three mainstream suppliers responsible for the vast majority of Stilton sold, and gives Long Clawson over 50 per cent of total UK sales of Stilton post-merger.

UK consumers spend around £65 million per year on Stilton.

The CC is expected to report by 24 March 2009.

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