HC Deb 04 February 1980 vol 978 cc23-4
19. Mr. van Straubenzee

asked the Secretary of State for Trade whether he has considered the suggestions of the Office of Fair Trading for dealing with the fraudulent practice of second-hand car salesmen who misrepresent the mileage to the detriment of the consumer.

Mr. Eyre

The director general is now considering the comments of interested parties on his consultative paper. I shall await his report with interest, since I share my hon. Friend's anxiety about mal-practices in the used car trade.

Mr. van Straubenzee

I understand that there must be consultations, but, in view of the widespread practices that they are designed to try to deal with, can my hon. Friend give any indication of how long he thinks the consultations may take?

Mr. Eyre

I cannot be specific, but the report is expected soon and we shall certainly give urgent attention to the director general's recommendations.