asked the Secretary of State for Trade whether he has sought the views of interested parties before formulating his own policy on the revised draft directive of the EEC Commission on product liability; and when he expects such discussions to be concluded.

I believe that discussion of the draft directive will afford an opportunity to provide proper protection for the consumer without imposing undue burdens on industry. I have therefore sought the views of interested parties on the detailed provisions of the draft by 21 December and I shall decide my attitude to individual provisions as soon as possible thereafter.