§ Mr. LoveTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what action he is taking to deal with the difficulties faced by the textile industry in the United Kingdom. [149022]
§ Ms HewittMy right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry announced a package of support for the textiles and clothing industry in the form of a 12-point plan on 6 June 2000. This was an initial response to the report of the textile and clothing strategy group and included:
- The establishment of a major new supply chain initiative for the industry;
- Temporary relaxation of the rules for trade fair support to enable more textiles and clothing companies to receive assistance:
- The establishment of more projects to help the technical textiles sector;
- A major programme of re-skilling for the textiles and clothing industry;
- Support for up and coming new designers.
In addition, the Government provide a wide range of support for industry, including regional selective assistance and SMART awards. This support is available to textiles and clothing companies.