§ 34. Mr. GillTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on metrication in the United Kingdom retail food industry. [90043]
§ Dr. HowellsThe sale of retail food in metric units of measurement began in 1973. About 90 per cent. of retail food is now sold in metric weights or measures.
Under legislation made in 1994, foods sold loose by weight must be priced and weighed in grams and kilograms after 31 December 1999. Retailers will be able to display the weight and price in imperial units alongside their metric equivalents. Consumers will be able to describe in imperial weights the quantity they wish to buy. The retailer will simply provide the equivalent metric quantity.
I intend soon to report more fully to Parliament on metrication in the UK, including the Government's plans to provide small retailers and their customers with information and advice about the changeover for loose goods.