asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he has any proposals for the establishment of a small claims court; if not, why; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Small Claims Court.
2.
In its report which it submitted to me, the National Consumer Advisory Council recommended the setting up of consumer complaints boards which could deal expeditiously and inexpensively with small claims for restitution and for compensation up to a limit of £500. This recommendation will be fully considered in the context of the consumer protection legislation which, as I have already announced, I will be introducing as a series of legislative measures as soon as possible.
What is the definition of, "as soon as possible" on this occasion?
I am not aware that there is such a definition.
What does it mean?
This measure in relation to a small claims court will be considered in the context of the third of the series of consumer protection Bills which we hope to be introducing. I am hoping we may be able to introduce the first of these before the Summer Recess but I am not sure that that will be the case.