UK gases giant BOC today said its £8.2bn (€12bn) takeover by German industrial conglomerate Linde was on course as it reported a “strong trading performance” in the first half.

Gases giant BOC today became the latest historic manufacturer to fall into foreign hands after accepting an £8.2bn (€12bn) bid from German industrial conglomerate Linde.

Industrial gases group BOC today looked poised to become the latest heavyweight British firm to be taken into foreign ownership.