§ Mr. Mulleyasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when he expects the proposed Garage Quality Council to begin its operations; whether a chairman and members of the council have been appointed; if he will publish its terms of reference; and, having regard to the interests of motorists, if he will ensure that it has adequate finance and manpower resources to undertake its proposed functions.
§ Mr. ChatawayIt was made clear from the outset that the proposed council would be an entirely voluntary body, to be financed by the trade and other organisations, whose purpose is to protect the interests of motorists, and not by the general body of taxpayers. It is being established under the auspices of the NEDO, which is currently finalising the details of the scheme. My Department strongly supports the proposed council's objectives, and I am prepared to make the formal appointment of a chairman, when invited to do so, as soon as the financial and other details are settled.