To Putney for ICL meeting to oppose the IBM/BT deal before an evening preparing my NCC paper
I set off by car to Putney in good time for my meeting with ICL. I drove to Putney Bridge and arrived by 10.30, which gave a further 30 mins to prepare. I was well received by Rob Willmott and Roger Holmes and we compared notes on the IBM/BT issue with much common accord. I undertook to try to mobilise the press. I also took them through the latest aspects of the Duty issue and Rob promised his renewed action and support, and I lastly pressed briefly the case for membership of the BMMG, which they will now consider.
Whilst I was there they received final confirmation from the DTI that they will not be referring the STC takeover to the Office of Fair Trading. Also that ITT are now reducing their holding of STC shares to 24%. Off home and I make good progress to arrive back in Lt Paxton in mid-afternoon. I drop in on Leslie Saunders at Grove House and press my need on her for magazines and my computer cable. An evening preparing my NCC paper which was very important.