HC Deb 18 January 1990 vol 165 cc353-4W
Mr. Austin Mitchell

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what actions he takes to promote the accountancy profession.

Mr. Redwood

My Department seeks to promote all United Kingdom business, including accountancy, by fostering a climate of enterprise and prosperity in which business and commerce can flourish.

Mr. Austin Mitchell

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what powers he has to regulate the accountancy profession.

Mr. Redwood

I have no powers to regulate the accountancy profession as such, although there are statutory provisions for the regulation of certain types of accountancy work, for example company audit, in-solvency and the provision of investment advice.

Mr. Austin Mitchell

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will ask the Director General of Fair Trading to investigate whether major accountancy firms indulge in price fixing.

Mr. Redwood

No, I have no reason to make such a request. If the hon. Member has evidence to cause concern, he should provide it directly to the Director General of Fair Trading.