§ Mr. Staintonasked the Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection 546W what representations she has received regarding pub charging; and what is the object of her policy of requiring the prices of drinks sold in licensed premises to be prominently displayed.
Mr. Alan WilliamsI have received many representations about prices of drinks in licensed premises. Whilst I am satisfied that the Price Code effectively controls brewery profits my object in requiring prices of drinks to be prominently displayed is to let the customer know in advance of placing his order the level of prices charged in that bar so that he may decide whether this is a fair price having regard to the amenities offered. Price display will also make it easier for customers to check whether they have been overcharged and for local authorities to prosecute for overcharging.