HL Deb 16 July 1985 vol 466 cc605-6

2.44 p.m.

Baroness Sharpies

My Lords, I beg leave to ask the Question standing in my name on the Order Paper.

The Question was as follows:

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether the appointment of a banking ombudsman would improve consumer protection.

Lord Brabazon of Tara

My Lords, the banking industry announced in February its intention to establish a banking ombudsman, following a recommendation by the National Consumer Council. The Government welcome this initiative, which can be expected to be in the interests of consumers.

Baroness Sharpies

My Lords, I thank my noble friend for that reply. When will the ombudsman be appointed? And can my noble friend say whether it was pressure brought by the Consumer Council and other organisations which persuaded the banks that this was a good idea?

Lord Brabazon of Tara

My Lords, the announcement followed a recommendation in the National Consumer Council's report on banking services and the consumer, published in 1983. It is, I think, hoped that the ombudsman will be in operation by the end of the year.