§ Mr. Fryasked the Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection what representations she has received about the activities of certain wholesalers operating as retail outlets from warehouses and issuing cash-and-carry cards to the general public; and if she is satisfied that this is in the consumer's interest.
Mr. Alan WilliamsI have received several representations on this question. Naturally I am concerned that the consumer should have a wide choice of different types of retail outlet, but I recognise that there may well be valid planning objections if a warehouse for which planning permission has been granted for wholesale trading, seeks retail business from the general public. Enforcement of the terms of planning permissions is for local planning authorities to consider.