| abstract |
The invention provides a process for preparing a compound of formula (II):-n where R 3 and R 4 are the same or different and are hydrogen, C 1-4 , alkyl, C 1-4 , alkoxy, amino or nitro and n is from 2 to 5 which comprises reacting an alkali metal derivative of a compound of formula (III) :-n where R 3 and R 4 are as defined with reference to formula (II) with a compound of formula (IV):-n or a salt thereof, where n is defined with reference to formula (II) and X is halogen, in the presence of a non-interfering solvent, and thereafter optionally converting the compound of formula (I) so obtained into a salt. |