§ Dr. GodmanTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what recent representations he has received concerning the continuity of the Scottish hallmark, the lion rampant and Edinburgh castle marks in relation to proposals emanating from the European Commission on hall-marking and assay offices; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Ian TaylorI have received no specific representations concerning the Scottish marks. The Government are aware of the depth of feeling in the industry at large, in the assay offices, and amongst consumer organisations, that traditional marks, including town marks, should continue to be allowed under the terms of the proposed directive. The Government will continue to argue for their use.