asked the Secretary of State for Industry, Trade and Regional Development what proposals he has for bringing up to date the legislation on hallmarking and the work of assay offices.

We have accepted that the existing legislation on hallmarking requires revision, but I cannot say when it will be possible to introduce the necessary Measure.

As there is need for consolidation, which my hon. Friend agrees, and this is an important part of consumer protection, will my hon. Friend take all measures possible to ensure that this is part of the legislative programme of the next Government?

My hon. Friend is entirely right. The present legislation is an accretion of centuries, it is archaic and confused, and undoubtedly reform is required. This will inevitably be a major task. In respect of the second part of my hon. Friend's question, I am sure I can say that if we continue to have a Conservative Administration we shall make progress.

In view of the important work done by the Assay Office at Sheffield, may I ask my hon. Friend whether when he has some preliminary information he will make a report as soon as possible?

We shall certainly bear this point in mind, and I will certainly give an undertaking to my hon. Friend to keep in touch with him on the matter.