HC Deb 10 December 1986 vol 107 cc179-80W
31. Mr. Heathcoat-Amory

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps he has taken to ensure compliance with the European Economic Community's Lawnmowers (Harmonisation of Noise Emission Standards) Regulations 1986.

Mr. Giles Shaw

Under section 7 of the Lawnmower (Harmonisation of Noise Emission Standards) Regulations 1986 the Secretary of State has powers to carry out periodic checks, but it is envisaged that these powers will be exercised only when there are grounds for thinking that a manufacturer or importer is failing to comply with the directive. In such circumstances the inspection would be carried out by officials of the Department of Trade and Industry, assisted if necessary by suitable technical experts.