HC Deb 18 June 2003 vol 407 cc330-1W
Kate Hoey

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, (1) whether(a) her ministers and (b) officials have met representatives of the (i) British Retail Consortium and (ii) Consumers' Association to discuss the EU draft directive on precious metals; and if she will make a statement; [116828]

(2) with which stakeholders her officials are discussing the Government's position on the EU draft directive on precious metals; and if she will make a statement. [116866]

Mr. Sutcliffe

Neither Ministers nor officials have met representatives of the British Retail Consortium or the Consumers' Association to discuss the Draft EU Directive on the marking of precious metals. Officials have met representatives of the National Association of Goldsmiths, which represents retail jewellers, and have been in contact with representatives of the Consumers' Association regarding the Directive.

Officials have discussed the Draft Directive with, among others, the British Hallmarking Council, the Assay Offices, Trading Standards and jewellery manufacturers. The Government does not support the Directive.

Mr. Chope

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what the policy is of the Government towards the Precious Metals Directive; and if she will make a statement. [118225]

Mr. Sutcliffe

The Government do not support the Directive.