A row has broken out between the Belgian and British governments over the latter's refusal to permit Belgian company Interbrew take over Bass's beer business.

Bass, which has a plant in west Belfast, was to become part of the Belgian giant, one of the world's largest brewers. London has ordered the company to sell the British business.

The Belgian Economy Minister has raised the issue with the British Trade and Industry Secretary, Mr Stephen Byers, who made the decision and with the European Commission.