§ Mr. McGradyTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what steps he is taking to guarantee the same standards of consumer protection after the discontinuing of electrical equipment testing services in the industrial science division of the Department of Economic Development.
§ Mr. Viggers[holding answer 27 July 1988]: Following a review of the work of the Department of Economic Development's industrial science division it has been possible to reinstate the service for the testing of electrical 574W equipment and the same standards of consumer protection will therefore be provided as before the service was temporarily suspended.
§ Mr. McGradyTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will review his recent decision to discontinue electrical equipment testing in the industrial science division of the Department of Economic Development, taking into account the increased financial burdens which will be placed on local authorities required to despatch articles to Great Britain; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Viggers[holding answer 27 July 1988]: I have had representations from a number of local authorities in Northern Ireland and from consumer organisations about the difficulties they are encountering in getting electrical equipment tested. A review has been conducted of the work of the Department's industrial science division and it has been possible to reinstate this service. Some increase in charges will be necessary so that the service covers its cost and the local authorities are being informed of these increases.