§ 31. Dr. McDonaldasked the Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection how many consumer advice centres have been opened and price survey schemes have now been commenced.
§ Mr. John FraserTo date, 113 consumer advice centres have been opened and 290 price survey schemes are in operation.
§ Dr. McDonaldI thank my hon. Friend for that answer, but 1 ask him to suggest what advice the consumer advice centres can give to consumers in view of the rise in food prices as a result of action by the European Economic Community and the withdrawal of food subsidies.
§ Mr. FraserThere are things which price surveys can do. They can give information to consumers about where the cheapest goods within a range are available.
§ Mr. FraserThe cost altogether is about £3 million in a full year for consumer advice centres and price surveys. I was saying that price surveys can indicate to consumers where the cheapest goods are available in a range. The surveys show that there are considerable variations. They enable competitors to fight harder in favour of the consumer.