Automotive Industry
Debate between Viscount Younger of Leckie and Lord Elton
Viscount Younger of Leckie
There is much going on across government in all sectors. I will write to the noble Lord with details of that particular issue. At the moment, we are focused on the automotive car sector and supply chains.
Lord Elton (Con)
My Lords, the Minister recognised the need for innovation in maintaining a healthy industry. Innovation depends on R&D—research and development. The Government have a programme for grant-aiding research and development in industry. The important thing is that the money comes while the initiative and manpower are there to accept it. What is the average time taken by the Government to respond to applications for R&D grants? Is it faster than the snail-like progress of the European Union?
Viscount Younger of Leckie
That is a very specific question from my noble friend; I will write to him with an answer.
Consumers: Vulnerable Consumers
Debate between Viscount Younger of Leckie and Lord Elton
Viscount Younger of Leckie
I certainly note the comment that the noble Baroness made. It is in line with the other comments that have been made today and has been firmly noted.
Lord Elton (Con)
My Lords, if the utilities were capped as to the length of a telephone call they could charge for—to, say, a couple of minutes—would they not then have a pressing interest in cutting listening to this awful recording rather effectively?
Viscount Younger of Leckie
I note what my noble friend says. It is difficult to answer in more depth than that.
Supermarkets: Pricing
Debate between Viscount Younger of Leckie and Lord Elton
Viscount Younger of Leckie
I can reassure the noble Lord that we take enforcement very seriously. As the noble Lord will be aware, enforcement of the legislation is undertaken by the Office of Fair Trading and trading standards boards. If there is an issue, the first thing that complainants should do is go to trading standards. I am also extremely aware of the major supermarket that was prosecuted for giving a misleading price on strawberries.
Lord Elton (Con)
My Lords, will the Minister take on board the plight of elderly single people trying to follow a balanced diet? They have to try to find a loaf of bread that does not go stale before they have finished it because the loaves are all too big.