HC Deb 23 July 1997 vol 298 c661W
Mrs. May

To ask the President of the Board of Trade what action she intends to take in relation to the top three issues listed by hon. Members in responding to the questionnaire on consumer issues. [9443]

Mr. Nigel Griffiths

[holding answer 18 July 1997]: The top three issues raised by hon. Members in responding to the consumer issues questionnaire were labelling—animal testing—food and drink and advertising standards.

My Department is working on a guidance document on the Cosmetics Regulations 1996 which will address the question of permissible use of animal testing claims on labels.

Food and drink issues are being considered vigorously by my colleagues in MAFF and DOH notably through preparation for the food standards agency, in which I have an input.

I have met the Advertising Standards Authority and the Advertising Association to discuss the concerns shared by parliamentary colleagues and the public.

I would be pleased to meet the hon. Member to discuss the concerns of her constituents.