§ Mr. Brothertonasked the Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection (1) what consultations he has had with jeans manufacturers before referring to the Price Commission the distribution of jeans;
(2) what consultations he had with representatives of small businesses before referring to the Price Commission the distribution of jeans;
(3) for what purpose he referred to the Price Commission for a survey on the distribution of jeans.
§ Mr. MaclennanMy right hon. Friend issued a direction to the Price Commission on 20th June requiring it to examine and report to him on prices, costs and margins in the distribution of jeans. This direction was made against a background of concern at wide variations in the price and quality of jeans.
My right hon. Friend does not normally consult bodies outside Government before the issue of a direction, but does so extensively following publication of a Price Commission report.