HC Deb 21 February 1961 vol 635 cc298-9
33. Mr. F. Noel-Baker

asked the President of the Board of Trade what steps he is taking to implement the recommendation of the Consumer Advisory Council that a social survey be set up by the Board of Trade to inquire into consumers' views on price maintenance.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Trade (Mr. Niall Macpherson)

I refer the hon. Member to my right hon. Friend's statement made on the 26th January in answer to a Question by my hon. Friend the Member for Belfast, West (Mrs. McLaughlin).

Mr. Noel-Baker

May I ask the hon. Gentleman two related questions? First, I understand that his Department has canvassed the views of retailers and manufacturers, that their replies were received last October and are being analysed now: when is a conclusion to be reached on them? Secondly, if the Department has canvassed the views of retailers and manufacturers, is it not reasonable that it should also seek to ascertain the views of consumers, and why does he turn down flat the suggestion of the Consumer Advisory Council that a social survey should be used in that very useful way?

Mr. Macpherson

In reply to the hon. Gentleman's first supplementary question, I cannot say exactly when a decision will be reached. In reply to his second supplementary question, my right hon. Friend is in touch with consumer associations, but there is a distinct difficulty in carrying out a social survey, partly because of the time that will be involved, and partly because of the need to frame questions that will give useful answers.