Written question asked by Donald Gorrie (Liberal Democrat) on Wednesday, 14 March 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 19 March 2001. It was answered by Kim Howells (Labour) on Monday, 19 March 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, if he will take steps to dissuade companies which offer credit facilities to customers from encouraging people to build up substantial debts.

Answer: Mr. Gorrie: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will take steps to dissuade companies which offer credit facilities to customers from encouraging people to build up substantial debts. [154425] Dr. Howells: Last November, I set up a taskforce, which includes credit industry representatives, to explore the causes and effects of overindebtedness and develop practical solutions for achieving more responsible lending and borrowing. The taskforce will present proposals to me in April and I will be aiming to implement measures as soon as possible after that.

Secondary information