Bass could soon get the green light to divest itself of its brewing interests and become a fully fledged global hotelier. This follows the decision by the DTI to ask Brussels to refer Interbrew's £2.3bn takeover of Bass brewing to the UK authorities. If the Commission decides to leaves it to the OFT, then for Bass the deal becomes unconditional. It will then be up to Interbrew to deal with any issues arising at the OFT. The European Commission has to decide by August 22. {{NEWS }}