§ Q4. Mr. Gwilym Robertsasked the Prime Minister if he will take steps to set up a Ministry of Consumer Affairs to assist both retailers and consumers.
§ The Prime MinisterNo, Sir.
§ Mr. RobertsWould not the Prime Minister agree, however, that at the moment Government Departments, from Trade to Technology, are orientated much more to production than to distribution? Would he further agree that some changes are taking place in retailing, and that a Ministry of Consumer Affairs of this type would give useful advice to the retailer, as well as much needed protection to the consumer?
§ The Prime MinisterThis suggestion has been studied on a number of occasions. It was studied by ourselves in opposition, and rejected. It was studied by the Molony Committee and rejected, but my hon. Friend will be aware of the very special concern for these problems of my right hon. Friend the Minister of State, Board of Trade who specialises in these consumer questions.