§ Mr. Philip Hollandasked the Secretary of State for Trade whether, in accordance with procedures laid down in the Civil Service Department's guide on non-departmental public bodies, he has recently carried out a review to determine whether there is a continuing need for the nationalised industries consumers' councils and to assess their effectiveness; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BiffenWe are currently examining the scope for reforming the present NICC structure, on which I shall make a further statement as soon as possible.
§ Mr. Philip Hollandasked the Secretary of State for Trade whether, in accordance with procedures laid down in the Civil Service Department's guide on non-departmental public bodies, he has recently carried out a review to determine whether there is a continuing need for the National Consumer Council and to assess its effectiveness; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BiffenAs announced in January 1980 we see a continuing role for the National Consumer Council which, like other public bodies for which I am responsible, is kept under periodic review on the basis envisaged in the CSD guide.