LLOYDS Banking Group said it has given the Co-operative Group a clear run to buy the 632 branches it is selling, prompting rival suitor NBNK to throw in the towel.
The group revealed that negotiations will once again proceed with the Co-operative on an exclusive basis in the hope of finalising an agreement as soon as possible.
A source suggested the main points of a deal, or heads of terms, could be agreed within weeks.
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