HC Deb 08 June 1961 vol 641 cc1359-60

The following Question stood upon the Order Paper:

Mr. F. NOEL-BAKER

To ask the President of the Board of Trade whether he will institute proceedings under the Merchandise Marks Act against those motor manufacturers who advertise that their vehicles carry a 12-month guarantee although many parts, including coach work, tyres, speedometer, and electrical equipment, are manufactured by other firms.

Mr. F. Noel-Baker

Before asking this Question, may I apologise for the fact that the last few words of my original Question were omitted? I have put them privately to the right hon. Gentleman, and I hope that he will answer the Question as I intended to ask it.

Mr. Maudling

I am advised that there is no basis for proceeding under the Merchandise Marks Acts, 1887–1953. So far as I know, the fact that some accessory parts of a car are specifically excluded from a car maker's formal guarantee does not give rise to any unusual difficulty in practice.

Mr. Noel-Baker

Is the President aware that a number of consumer organisations are very concerned about this, and that the impression given to a prospective buyer is very misleading? Will he have another look at it?

Mr. Maudling

I did not think there was much concern about this, but if the hon. Member has evidence which he would care to send to me, I shall be happy to study it.

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