§ Mr. Geoffrey Finsbergasked the Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection on how many occasions since 549W 1st January 1977 information has been prepared by his Department, at public expense, along the lines of the answer from Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer Official Report, 14th July 1978, c. 802; what has been the total cost to public funds; and if he will make this publicly financed information available to any hon. Members wishing to receive it, provided that they arrange to collect it.
§ Mr. HattersleyI have provided three factual notes at the request of Labour Members of Parliament since 1st January 1977:
- October 1977—explanatory note on the average weight system for prescribed quantity prepacked goods;
- April 1978—background note on the metrication programme;
- April 1978—summary of functions of the Department of Prices and Consumer Protection.
The costs of preparation were minimal, and I should certainly be very pleased to make this material available at the request of any hon. Member interested in these subjects.