HALLMARKING

Early day motion 1232, tabled 15 May 2003 by Mark Lazarowicz (Labour/Co-operative). Signed by 134 members.

That this House notes that the present UK system of hallmarking precious metals ensures that purchasers of gold and silver jewellery and silverware have the protection of a third party independent hallmarking system; further notes that the Italian Government when it assumes the Presidency of the European Union is expected to press for a European Directive on precious metals which would allow the introduction of manufacturer marking of jewellery and silverware by self certification; expresses its concern that such a move would lead to an increase in fraud in the sale of such products, and would also threaten the existence of the Scottish Assay Office together with its distinctive hallmark which enhances sales, particularly to tourists; and calls upon the UK Government to vigorously oppose the adoption of any EU Directive which would prevent member states from maintaining a system of independent third party hallmarking together with distinctive hallmarks.

Signatures by party: Labour 80, Conservative 23, Liberal Democrat 15, Labour/Co-operative 9, Plaid Cymru 2, Scottish National Party 2, DUP 1, Independent 1, UUP 1.