§ 20. Mrs. Joyce Butlerasked the Minister of Power what consideration he has given to the desirability of replacing the present power consultative councils by independent consumer councils; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John MorrisI cannot accept my hon. Friend's imputation that the present councils are not independent, but if she has any particular suggestions to make I shall be glad to consider them.
§ Mrs. ButlerDoes my hon. Friend appreciate that well-informed consumers can make a valuable contribution to improved services, and possibly also to reduce costs, if they are given appropriate facilities? Would there not be some advantage in channelling all the complaints which are received through area consumer councils with some clearly defined executive powers to remedy them?
§ Mr. MorrisWe are, of course, always prepared to consider any suggestions for improving the present arrangements, but my hon. Friend will be aware that there are district committees to these consultative councils.