A leading international bank, launching a take-over bid for a British high street bank and unsure of reference to the then Monopolies and Mergers Commission, wanted to find out the likely reaction at Westminster.

A sample of MPs, balanced by party, geographical location and special interest, was polled as to their perceptions of both banks, and their views on the main arguments for and against a take-over. Key issues involved included employment, special services to small businesses, and the future of rural branches.

In ten days, we developed a questionnaire, interviewed the MPs, and provided a detailed assessment of their views to the bank. Overwhelmingly (and to the surprise of the client, given some negative press coverage) the MPs came out in favour of the take-over.