OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) - The Oklahoma National Stock Yards says a livestock dealer's allegations that it is engaging in price manipulation are false.

The stockyards released a statement Tuesday in response to claims in a federal lawsuit filed Monday by Parker Livestock of Thomas. The lawsuit alleges - among other things - that the stockyards and others are violating the 1921 federal Packers and Stockyards Act.

The law is designed to prevent conflicts of interest and market manipulation.

Parker Livestock owner John Parker claims he was banned from the stockyard's auctions because he complained about the violations. An emailed statement from the stockyards on Tuesday says Parker was banned for repeated inappropriate and disruptive behavior.

It says Parker's allegations ``are completely without basis in fact'' and the stockyards will defend itself in court.