§ Mr. WatsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry pursuant to her answer of 12 May 2004,Official Report, column 443W, on radio frequency identifiers, if she will assess the potential change in the number of jobs in the retail sector as a result of the implementation of radio frequency identifier devices technology. [177810]
§ Mr. TimmsRadio frequency identifier device (RFID) technologies are currently deployed in the retail environment for tagging at case or pallet level in distribution and stock control. It does not appear to have had impacts on job numbers. The possible 723W extension of RFID technology to tagging at item level may have implications for employment and the range of skills and competences required of retail staff. The Department for Trade and Industry will monitor developments through its relationship with the retail sector and the relevant Sector Skills Councils.