§ Mr. ChidgeyTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will use his powers under the Prices Act 1974 to regulate the charging of cash machine customers; and if he will make a statement. [109484]
§ Dr. Howells[holding answer 11 February 2000]: I believe that any charges for cash machines should be clearly displayed before the transaction proceeds. I am aware that the banking industry is currently considering this in the context of the revision to the Banking Code and I hope that a voluntary agreement ensuring transparency will be achieved. Nevertheless, if this is not, I will use my powers in section 4 of the Prices Act 1974 to require the industry to display charges clearly.
§ Mr. ChidgeyTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what powers he has to regulate the charging of cash machine customers. [109483]
§ Dr. Howells[holding answer 11 February 2000]: Under section 4 of the Prices Act 1974 the Secretary of State may by order require that charges for services such as the use of cash machines are indicated.
From 1 March the Director General of Fair Trading will have the power to examine such matters under the Competition Act 1998.