§ Mr. MichaelTo ask the Prime Minister whether he will make it his policy to ensure that there is a level playing field in business and commerce, including the retail sector, and that observance of the law does not lead directly to a commercial penalty for law-abiding companies.
§ The Prime MinisterLaw enforcement authorities required to act in the public interest are themselves responsible—not the Government—for determining what action is most appropriate and effective to uphold the law.
§ Mr. MichaelTo ask the Prime Minister whether he will make it his policy to protect small and family businesses in the retail trade from unfair competition.
§ The Prime MinisterBusinesses of all sizes and in all trades are protected from unfair competition by the Fair Trading Act 1973 and the Competition Act 1980. The Secretary of State for Trade and Industry and the Director General of Fair Trading, in conjunction with the Monopolies and Mergers Commission, ensure the effective application of the Acts.