Qataris 'poised for M&S bid'

Is Britain’s best-known retailer about to fall into Middle Eastern hands?

The Qatar Investment Authority is rumoured to be exploring an £8bn move for the 129-year-old high street stalwart Marks & Spencer.

According to City sources, the Qataris have approached private equity houses to gauge their interest in joining a consortium.

The QIA is the latest in a line of potential suitors for the retailer, whose television ads have featured the actors Ryan Reynolds and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley.