HC Deb 02 December 1986 vol 106 cc548-9W
Mr. Forman

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make it his policy to make public the responses received to future consultation documents issued by his Department, unless respondents have specifically asked for their comments to be confidential; and if he will make clear arrangements for publication of responses when such documents are issued.

Mr. Butcher

No. Frank expression of views could be inhibited if there were a presumption in favour of publication, but I continue to be ready to do so in appropriate cases and when the respondent has explicitly agreed to publication.