§ 40. Mr. MackinlayTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what are his powers in relation to promoting competition, controlling profits and dividends and ensuring fair charges in those utilities in respect of business in private ownership; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Jonathan EvansThe duties and powers of my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade are set down in the relevant legislation. The Government have established independent regulators for the utilities, with duties to promote competition and to protect the interests of consumers, including in respect of prices charged.