Article: West Bromwich's buffer deal saves its independence.

Byline: Kelly Macnamara

WEST Bromwich Building Society insisted yesterday it would retain its independence after agreeing a debt deal to strengthen its finances.

The mutual, which is 160 years old this year, said it had "absolutely no plans to merge with anyone" following a move to convert pounds 182.5m of debts into a financial instrument which will qualify as high quality capital.

West Bromwich said the arrangement would provide it with a buffer to help absorb any losses and give it the capital strength to pass government stress tests.

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