Assignment: Neither COMPANY nor Contractor may transfer or assign its rights and obligations under this Purchase Order without a prior written consent of the other party. Notwithstanding the foregoing, without the consent of the Contractor, (a) the COMPANY may transfer or assign its rights and obligations hereunder in whole or in part, provided such entity shall be bound by the term hereof, and (b) the COMPANY may transfer or assign its rights and obligations hereunder in whole or in part pursuant to any merger, consolidation or otherwise by operation of law. This Purchase Order will be binding upon and will inure to the benefit of the proper successors and assigns.