§ Mr. Moateasked the Secretary of State for Transport what assessment he has made of the implications of the counterfeiting of British motor accessories and components for the safety of consumers; what powers are available to him to prosecute alleged offenders; and if any criminal proceedings have been instituted.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeMy department has made extensive investigations with the help of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders and individual manufacturers. We have identified only two cases of counterfeiting, safety-critical components circulating on British markets. These are brake diaphragms found on some buses in 1979 and light fittings on which a vehicle manufacturer is now taking private legal action. It has not yet been necessary for me to institute any legal proceedings, but I shall not hesitate to use my powers under the consumer safety and road traffic legislation or to take action to warn the public if I find that potentially dangerous counterfeit products are being sold.