§ Mr. Onslowasked the Secretary of State for Trade if he will ask the Director General of Fair Trading to conduct a review of the terms and operation of the contract for the supply of building materials and supplies to Government and similar establishments throughout England and Wales before this is next awarded in February 1981, in order to ensure that the contract results in genuine savings in public expenditure, and does not penalise potential competitors for this business by the creation of a monopoly.
§ Mrs. Sally OppenheimThe Director General of Fair Trading has powers under the Fair Trading Act 1973 and the Competition Act 1980 to initiate investigations into monopoly situations or anti-competitive practices. The Director General exercises these powers independently of the Government. My hon. Friend may therefore care to bring any relevant information to the Director General's attention.