§ Mr. KidneyTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) what powers he(a) has and (b) intends to seek to control the retail prices of petrol and diesel; [134398]
(2) what powers he (a) has and (b) intends to seek to ensure that oil producers and retailers pass on in full to consumers reductions in taxes on petrol and diesel. [134457]
§ Mrs. LiddellSection 1(4) of the Energy Act 1976 confers power on the Secretary of State to regulate by order the price at which petroleum products (including petrol and diesel) may be supplied.
My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State does not intend to seek further powers.
The Government believe that open competition provides consumers with supplies at the best available prices.