§ Mr. BakerTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what guidance he has given to the Office of Fair Trading to ensure that the interests of the consumer are reflected in its operating policy. [97500]
§ Dr. Howells[holding answer 9 November 1999]: The Director General of Fair Trading is independent of Government. His functions are defined by various statutes, notably the Fair Trading Act 1973.
As part of his response to the White Paper "Modern Markets: Confident Consumers", he is carrying out a fundamental review of his consumer affairs functions. The review will cover his objectives, his powers and liaison and co-ordination with other government departments and enforcement agencies. The Director General expects to complete his review early next year, and I look forward to seeing his conclusions.
§ Mr. BakerTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps he is taking to ensure that the interests of consumers are addressed within Government. [97506]
§ Dr. Howells[holding answer 9 November 1999]: Our White Paper "Modern Markets: Confident Consumers" (Cm 4410) sets out a comprehensive strategy to ensure that the needs of consumers are addressed by Government. We are committed to strengthening the institutional framework for consumer protection. We are also developing new mechanisms to ensure that consumer interests are properly 630W represented in policy-making, including a new advisory committee, which I shall chair.
§ Mr. BakerTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make it his policy to ensure that all Government decisions are subject to a consumer impact assessment. [97507]
§ Dr. Howells[holding answer 9 November 1999]: The current system of regulatory impact assessments already requires an assessment of the benefits of proposals to consumers, as well as the regulatory costs to businesses and enforcement agencies. I see no need for a new and separate consumer impact assessment.