asked the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Energy if his attention has been drawn to the promotional campaigns carried out by a London company (details supplied) in this country under the guise of awards or prizes allegedly won by people, and of the high pressure salesmanship and tactics employed in the follow up of customers whose interest is initiated in this way, if he will investigate these practices as a matter of urgency and amend the law in this regard.
Written Answers. - Promotional Campaigns by London Company.
382.
I am aware of the practice referred to by the Deputy, but I would not consider that it is unduly detrimental to the interests of Irish consumers.
The Sale of Goods and Supply of Services Bill, 1978, contains provisions relating to the general area of unsolicited goods, particularly in respect of demands for payment for goods which have not been requested or ordered. I am not aware that this company does in fact engage in such action, but if it does, the Bill when enacted will make any demands for payment illegal. I am also satisfied that the protection which will be given to the consumer under such circumstances will be adequate.