Multi-sector recruiter Adecco has been given a 5pm deadline on 30 September by the Takeover Panel to make a firm offer for Michael Page or walk away. If Adecco fails to make a bid they will not be allowed to make a further bid for six months.

The Panel said that both Michael Page and Adecco had accepted the ruling.
 
After announcing it had rejected two earlier bids from Adecco, Michael Page had previously called a halt to negotiations and rejected an earlier Adecco bid.