§ Mr. BatisteTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry whether he intends to defend the action brought by J. Kohle GMBH & Co. KG against him, the British Hallmarking Council, and the Goldsmiths Company, challenging the basis of United Kingdom hallmarking of precious metals.
§ Mr. SainsburyMy right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry is considering the legal position. As my hon. Friend knows, the Government have made clear their view that the compulsory marking of precious metals is essential to protect the interests of the consumer and honest trader. The Government believe that this is best achieved through the United Kingdom hallmarking system.