PRESS DIGEST - British business - March 11

The Times

D1 OILS FOUNDER QUITS WITH ATTACK ON CITY

Karl Watkin left his job as executive director of D1 Oils (DOO.L: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz) on Monday, and made a vicious attack on the City and organisations that criticised D1's crop. Watkin said he was disheartened by the "plethora of so-called experts", who he believed failed to distinguish between D1's crop, jatropha, and non-sustainable biodiesel feedstocks. Watkin said the City's reaction to the announcement last week that the company could cut 30 percent of its staff was "the last straw".

ROSE LOOKS FOR HEIRS TO SHOW THEIR METTLE

The chief executive of Marks & Spencer (MKS.L: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz), Sir Stuart Rose, appeared to be enjoying his second honeymoon at the company on Monday when he reaffirmed his love for the high street giant and said he had never thought of leaving. Rose said his impending move to executive chairman was the best for all concerned. He said: "This is Act Two of the play, the play goes on. We just have to run the business through what is a dark, stormy night. We have got to have continuation of management and people to get through this economic climate."

CONSTRUCTION & PROPERTY

Martin Barber, chief executive and founder of Britain's biggest retail park developer, has been ousted more than a year ahead of his retirement. Barber had presided over a 70 percent annual decline in the share price of Capital and Regional (CAL.L: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz).

The Daily Telegraph

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