HC Deb 22 November 1967 vol 754 c1306
28. Mr. Francis Noel-Baker

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will increase the present grant to the Consumer Council, in order that it should be able to provide a more effective and comprehensive service to the public, particularly in action as a watch over advertising.

Mrs. Gwyneth Dunwoody

The Council's proposals for its grant-in-aid in 1968–69 were received earlier this month, and are now being considered.

Mr. Noel-Baker

Although there is need for economy, does my hon. Friend agree that it is very important to have an independent scrutiny of advertising, and that what the Council has done so far with its limited resources has been very useful?

Mrs. Dunwoody

We naturally pay a great tribute to the amount of work done by the Council, particularly in this matter.

Mr. Blaker

Would it not give much needed protection to the consumer if the Consumer Council could watch over the Government's advertising policies? Is not the need for this shown by the Government's recent appointment of 113 extra Press officers?

Mrs. Dunwoody

Part of the Government's advertising costs are incurred in making efforts to get employment into the development areas, which I think is a very sensible way of spending money.