§ 18. Miss Fookesasked the Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection if she is satisfied with the operation of the law relating to pyramid selling, particularly in view of the evidence submitted to her by the hon. Member for Plymouth, Drake.
Mr. Alan WilliamsI am at present satisfied that this legislation is effective. I am aware of the report in a recent BBC television programme, to which I understand the hon. Member is referring, and I am having further inquiries made.
§ Miss FookesWill the Minister take urgent action on this matter, since it was quite clear from the programme that there is a considerable conning of people, which should be stopped?
Mr. Alan WilliamsI could hardly have taken more urgent action. The transcript was on my desk within 24 hours of the programme appearing and officials were asked immediately to investigate the matter. They are examining it with advice from solicitors, to decide whether or not it is a breach of the Act. 954 Obviously I cannot give a decision at this stage.