HC Deb 18 October 1971 vol 823 cc362-3
26. Mr. Redmond

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many representations he has had during the current year requiring early publication of the Government's White Paper on metrication; and whether he can now give a firm date for the issue of this document.

Sir J. Eden

The Confederation of British Industry, individual trade associations and many other persons have, either directly or through the Metrication Board, made such representations to me.

I hope to be able to announce the date of publication of the White Paper within the next few weeks.

Mr. Redmond

Does my hon. Friend agree that there is a fearful muddle in this matter at the moment and that many firms tell their customers who object to being sold goods in metric measures that it is the fault of the Government? Is my hon. Friend aware, for example, that weighing machine operators are trying to persuade shopkeepers, especially greengrocers, to convert their scales to the metric system, much to the annoyance of customers, and that again it is said to be the fault of the Government? Is my hon. Friend further aware that babies are being born in kilograms instead of in pounds and ounces, and that we are repeatedly told in the Press, despite what was said by my right hon. Friend the Minister for Transport Industries, that road signs will be converted to kilometres? May we please have a White Paper?

Sir J. Eden

Industry is moving forward in a voluntary way. But I accept that there is some confusion in this matter that is why I am pressing on with plans for publication of the White Paper as soon as possible.

Mr. Emery

Does my hon. Friend realise that public opinion is very much against direct action by the Government to force metrication upon the country, and that while industry can deal with whatever it wants voluntarily the Government would not receive the support of this House in any attempt to force legislation on the people?

Sir J. Eden

We have already given a firm undertaking to this House that a White Paper will be published. No doubt a White Paper will enable discussion to take place before there is any question of introducing legislation on metrication.