Written question asked by Christopher Chope (Conservative) on Tuesday, 21 October 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 28 October 2003. It was answered by Gerry Sutcliffe (Labour) on Tuesday, 28 October 2003 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, whether it is the policy of the Government to provide advice on individual consumer (a) problems and (b) complaints; and if she will make a statement. - (Holding answer 27 October 2003).

Answer: Mr. Chope: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry whether it is the policy of the Government to provide advice on individual consumer (a) problems and (b) complaints; and if she will make a statement. [134482] Mr. Sutcliffe :[holding answer 27 October 2003]: It is Government policy to increase people's access to quality consumer advice and information through Consumer Direct. Local Authorities, working in partnership within the English Government Office regions, Scotland and Wales, will be responsible for running Consumer Direct contact centres. These centres will provide advice on individual consumer problems and complaints via telephone or e-mail, or will refer consumers to local Consumer Support Network members if further help is required, or to other organisations who are better placed to assist. Consumer Direct will allow existing advice services to focus their skills and resources where they can add most value, in particular helping vulnerable consumers, providing face-to-face advice, implementing education programmes and clamping down on rogue traders and scams.

Secondary information