Signet denies talks with Ratner

Signet denies talks with Ratner

Signet yesterday denied that it had held any discussions with ousted chief executive Gerald Ratner about selling parts of the jewellery group. Mr Ratner, whose name the group once bore, is reported to be attempting to line up venture capital backing to buy back the Ernest Jones and H Samuel chains. He is also said to be seeking a strong City name to act as chairman, acknowledging that he could not raise the necessary capital on his own.