If STC Plc were to decide that Ferranti painted a prettier picture than Plessey, Ferranti Computer Systems would make a nice UKP200m-a-year present for ICL, although what ICL really needs is a suitable US acquisition in one of its chosen specialities – and few targets look more attractive than Computer Consoles Inc, one of the few computer companies that really does have one foot firmly in the telephone camp with its directory inquiry systems sold by STC already over here; and the Waltham, Massachusetts company would look even more of a catch if its boss, the energetic and articulate John Cunningham, could be persuaded to stay on and strengthen ICL’s top management – Peter Bonfield is presently chairman, managing director, chief executive and lord high everything else, so there are plenty of titles to spare.
