Written question asked by John Whittingdale (Conservative) on Thursday, 29 November 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 5 December 2001. It was answered by Melanie Johnson (Labour) on Wednesday, 5 December 2001 on behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry.

Dept of Trade and Industry

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, pursuant to her Answer of 27th November, Official Report, column 785W, on motor vehicles, what radical pro-consumer change she is advocating to the block exemption for motor vehicles; and what consultation she has had with the retail motor industry and motor manufacturers on this.

Answer: Mr. Whittingdale: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, pursuant to her answer of 27 November 2001, Official Report, column 785W, on motor vehicles, what radical pro-consumer change she is advocating to the block exemption for motor vehicles; and what consultation she has had with the retail motor industry and motor manufacturers on this. [20374] Miss Melanie Johnson: The current block exemption is not working satisfactorily. If consumers are to obtain value for money, then change is needed to secure an effective single European market in new cars and to provide more competition in the retailing of new cars and in their servicing and repair. My officials have had a series of discussions with motor industry trade associations and individual manufacturers and retailers, as well as with the Consumers Association.

Secondary information