§ 7. Mr. James Lamondasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what applications have been received recently from importers or manufacturers for further relief from duty for cotton yarn. 979 under Section 7 of the Import Duties Act, 1958.
§ Mr. NobleEleven applications have been received for relief on imports to be made during 1972. Nine have been allowed, one withdrawn and the other is still under consideration.
§ Mr. LamondDoes my right hon. Friend accept that that is a very disappointing answer since quite recently relief from duty was granted to 3-fold 8S cotton yard when the producers of that type of yarn in this country were passing through a difficult period, with the workers on short time, and when there were ample supplies available? Is my right hon. Friend aware that I hope he will take this sort of consideration into account before he makes decisions about these matters in future?
§ Mr. NobleThose matters were taken into consideration. Relief is given only where the goods fit the criteria under Section 7.
§ Mr. SkeetIs my right hon. Friend aware that Section 7 of the Import Duties Act is to be substantially revised by EEC legislation? Can he tell the House what changes are contemplated?
§ Mr. NobleIn simple terms, at the moment Section 7 relief is given under certain criteria as long as the interests of the producers in this country are not damaged thereby. If we join the Common Market, Section 7 relief will continue to be available on much the same basis as at present, subject to the interests of other Community producers.