To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what representations he has received from retailers about the implications of the Price Marking Order 1991—S.I., 1991, No. 1382; whether he intends to issue guidance about its implementation; and if his officials will meet representatives of retailers to discuss the order.

The Retail Consortium has made representations that the order, which implements EC directives requiring price indications for goods offered for sale to the final consumer, is unnecessary. I consider the order to be necessary since the directives require that price indications be given and that they must be legible. Our existing price marking requirements relate only to certain foods.My officials have prepared a four-page guidance note to the order which has been distributed to trade associations, trading standards departments, and others. I am asking them to arrange to meet representatives of the consortium to discuss its concerns.