§ 42. Mr. Bishopasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what action he has taken in the past year to resolve some of the outstanding problems arising from the setting up of the Engineers' Registration Board; what discussions are currently taking place with the Council of Engineering Institutions and the professional institutions; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael HeseltineThe setting up of the Engineers' Registration Board is of direct concern to the profession. My concern is that, while raising standards generally, this does not discriminate against a significant minority and affect their opportunities at home and in Europe. Discussions between my officials 231W and those of other interested Departments and the profession have been continuing during recent months. A range of possibilities has been considered, but I cannot yet forecast the solution. A solution must be found before EEC directives are determined.
§ Mr. Bishopasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry to what extent recent proposals from the Privy Council will affect the policy of the Council of Engineering Institutions in relation to professional institutions and the Engineers' Registration Board; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael HeseltineI have nothing to add to my reply to the hon. Member's Question No. 42 today. The Clerk of the Privy Council is one of the parties to the current discussions I described, and there is no separate Privy Council activity.