§ Mr. Ioan Evansasked the Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection whether she will give the assurances sought by the National Consumer Council in connection with metrication.
§ Mr. John FraserI am happy to give the assurances sought by the National Consumer Council and other consumer organisations. First, the Government accept that there is a danger that metrication might be thought to be responsible for higher prices and that it is important that consumer confidence be established in this respect. Wherever necessary therefore the Government will be prepared to use their powers under the Prices Acts to freeze prices during changeover periods. The need to use these powers can be examined during the consultation procedure which is specifically required under the Weights and Measures Etc. (No. 2) Bill before individual Orders can be brought forward.
Secondly, as regards the suggestion for a Metrication Monitoring Unit, the Government accept that it is important that queries and complaints by consumers are properly dealt with and monitored, and, against the background of the need for restraints on public expenditure and manpower, are examining ways and means of doing this. The possible role of voluntary consumer groups is also being considered.
Thirdly, whilst metrication in itself cannot solve the problem of increasing the availability of small packs for pensioners, I can give the assurance that all metrication orders have included and will continue to include provisions which make the sale of small packs legal.
Fourthly, I accept that metrication will provide an ideal opportunity to extend prescribed quantity legislation to goods and products not at present subject to 833W such legislation. The Government see this as one of the great potential consumer benefits of metrication and will be vigorously pursuing this policy. Finally, the Government recognise, as do the trade themselves, that special promotions of goods immediately prior to or during a changeover period can lead to confusion for the consumer. During the consultation procedure leading up to an individual order the Government will be prepared to seek the co-operation of the trade in ensuring that this confusion is avoided.