§ 39. Mr. Huntasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what estimate he has made of the effect on the lime growers of Jamaica, Trinidad and Dominica of the inclusion of lime oil in the Import Duties (Developing Countries) Order 1971 (S.I., 1971, No. 1882).
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (Mr. Anthony Grant)I cannot assess in advance how their trade to the United Kingdom may be affected, but lime oil is also to be admitted duty free into other markets.
§ Mr. HuntIs the Minister aware that there is very great concern in Commonwealth countries about the effect of cheap lime oil coming into this country from Mexico and elsewhere? Will he please bear in mind that 12,000 jobs are at stake in Jamaica and 5,000 in Trinidad? Therefore, will he keep a close watch on the situation and do all he can to minimise the adverse effects of the Order on the developing countries of the Commonwealth, for which we have special responsibility?
§ Mr. GrantYes, Sir. I am aware of the anxieties in this respect, but it is fair 1112 to point out that the West Indies Government were fully consulted in 1969 and 1970 by the present Government as well as by the previous Labour Government about our proposals, including the offer of duty-free entry for lime oil. However, we are looking into ways in which we might assist the lime growers in facing the increased competition from the other suppliers to which my hon. Friend referred.