§ Mrs. BrowningTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what assessment he has made of the effect the Competition Commission recommendation on car pricing would have on the independent car retailers. [124898]
§ Mr. Byers[holding answer 8 June 20001]The recommendations should bring about greater competition in the supply and retailing of new cars. This should mean lower prices, increased sales and increased consumer confidence. Both consumers and the car industry will benefit.
§ Mr. EnnisTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what further response he will make to the Competition Commission's report on the Supply of New Motor Cars in the UK. [125759]
§ Mr. ByersI intend to publish a draft of the Order under the Fair Trading Act 1973 on Monday 12 June. Under the provisions of the Fair Trading Act 1973 I will allow a 30 day period for consultation. This will help to ensure that the Order is workable for the industry and effective for consumers.
I note that prices for new cars have come down recently. I welcome this response by manufacturers and dealers. The Order is an important part of this process.