§ Mr. Cartwrightasked the Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection whether she will now make a statement following her discussions with the petrol companies.
Mr. Alan WilliamsI have now discussed with five of the major oil companies, and with the Motor Agents' Association, the possibility of arranging through voluntary co-operation that the net cash price of petrol is displayed at petrol stations in a way that is clearly visible to motorists on the road. I have been impressed by the willingness to help of those with whom I have spoken, and I believe there is now good reason to hope that the Director General of Fair Trading will achieve our aim of negotiating a voluntary code of practice in this matter. Meanwhile, I would recommend motorists to buy petrol only at stations where the price is clearly displayed.