HC Deb 13 April 2000 vol 348 cc275-6W
Dr. Palmer

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) if he will ask the Competition Commission to review the retail personal computer market, with particular reference to exclusive supply arrangements; [118565]

(2) if he will seek a meeting with representatives from the Dixons group of stores to discuss their exclusive supply arrangements with manufacturers of personal computers; and if he will make a statement. [118566]

Dr. Howells

Under UK competition law in the first instance it is the responsibility of the Director General of Fair Trading (DGFT) to investigate allegations of anti-competitive behaviour and possible abuses of a dominant position.

The Office of Fair Trading announced on 10 April that it would be seeking further information from those that have raised concerns about this market, and will be meeting with them shortly.

Mr. Wyatt

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will refer the retail market for personal computers to the Competition Commission; and if he will make a statement. [118583]

Dr. Howells

Under UK competition law in the first instance it is the responsibility of the Director General of Fair Trading (DGFT) to investigate allegations of anti-competitive behaviour and possible abuses of a dominant position.

The Office of Fair Trading announced on 10 April that it would be seeking further information from those that have raised concerns about this market.