HC Deb 26 July 1971 vol 822 c14W
63. Mr. Redmond

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he is satisfied with the present responsibilities of inspectors appointed under the Weights and Measures Acts with regard to the accuracy and efficiency of automatic machines dispensing goods, foods, drinks, stamps and other articles; if he will list them; if he will introduce legislation to increase them; and if he will take steps to make known to the public what protection they have in this connection.

Sir J. Eden

The responsibilities of inspectors under the Weights and Measures Act extend only to those vending machines which are required by law to measure out what they sell. They therefore do not cover machines selling, for example, stamps and books or offering services such as those in launderettes.

I have no plans to introduce legislation to extend the inspectors' responsibilities in these matters.