§ Mr. Ian StewartTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will make a statement on the Government's progress in developing legislative proposals to open up access to payment systems and oversee access charges. [143601]
§ Mr. Andrew SmithThe Government today issued a consultation document setting out their proposals to give the Office of Fair Trading new powers aimed at promoting effective competition in payments systems for the benefit of consumers.
Copies of the consultation document will be placed in the Libraries of both Houses. Further copies are available from the Treasury, and can also be accessed via the Treasury's website www.hm-treasury.gov.uk.