asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce when he proposes to initiate the Bill to protect the consumer; and if he will make a statement concerning the prolonged delay in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Consumer Protection.
6.
As I have previously explained, it is the intention to prepare four Bills dealing with different aspects of consumer protection. Much greater difficulties and complexities were encountered in preparing this legislation than had been expected, but I have now completed proposals for the first of these Bills and, as I indicated in reply to a question on 13th March last, I hope to circulate the Bill before the summer recess. I have also made considerable progress with the preparation of the second Bill, but it is now unlikely that it can be circulated until after the summer recess.
What does the first Bill deal with?
Trade descriptions and advertising.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary agree that the mergers Bill is also one which protects the consumer and would he like to state when that will come before the House again?
The question relates to consumer protection in the strict sense of that term.
Would I not be right in thinking that the philosophic basis for a mergers Bill is consumer protection and would I not be right in thinking that on that score I am entitled to an answer?
The mergers Bill is basically a measure designed to enhance competition and in normal terminology it is considered to be a separate area from consumer protection. It does, of course, have an impact on consumer protection as does any measure affecting industry which ultimately leads to a reduction in prices and which, therefore, has an element of consumer protection but, strictly speaking, it is not consumer protection proper.
That is waffle. When is it coming?
It has been on the stocks for two years.