§ Mr. Austin Mitchellasked the Secretary of State for Prices and Consumer Protection whether he will make a statement about the membership of the National Consumer Council.
§ Mr. HattersleyMr. Michael Young has informed me that he wishes to 627W relinquish the Chairmanship of the National Consumer Council before his present term expires in order to devote more time to his other commitments. I have accepted his resignation with regret. I am sure the House will join me in paying warm tribute to all he has done in establishing the Council's role and influence, and particularly to his success in giving a strong consumer voice to the inarticulate and disadvantaged sections of the community.
I am glad to announce that the new Chairman will be Mr. Michael Shanks, who will take over on 17th October. I am confident that Mr. Shanks's wide experience of economic and social matters will ensure that the Council continues to increase in influence and strength.