For the purpose of discussion, the Council distinguished two types of consumer representation on official and quasi-official bodies: consumer representation on official bodies charged with taking executive decisions in a specific field and consumer representation on official bodies with purely advisory functions. The Council concluded that measures for institutionalized consumer consultation and representation by and on official bodies is spreading. There are, however, wide differences in the precise methods adopted in member states to ensure that consumer interests are considered. The Council recommends that member states seek to develop and instituionalize, in accordance with their own traditions, customs, and circumstances, all the various means of ensuring that consumer interests are taken into account in the preparation of legislation, regulations, and decisions by public authorities. Particular attention should be given to the following: persons selected to serve on advisory or decisionmaking bodies should be representative of consumer interests; the genuine interests of disadvantaged and inarticulate consumers should be identified and effectively represented; and representation of consumer interests should carry sufficient weight in comparison with that given to other concerned parties. Government provision of financial and technical assistance, without compromising the independence of consumer representation, is also recommended. Consumer representation on standards bodies is recommended, particularly when deciding on the broad policy of the body and during the preparation of specific standards.