HC Deb 15 December 1975 vol 902 cc960-1
22. Miss Fookes

asked the Secretary of State for Trade what steps he intends to take to assist firms manufacturing television sets.

Mr. Shore

Assistance will continue to be available for our growing exports of televisions. I am also keeping a close watch on imports, and I have announced my intention of introducing surveillance licensing on imports of colour television sets and receivers.

Miss Fookes

It seems that the right hon. Gentleman is seeking to give a somewhat vague set of aids. Will he, in addition, put pressure on the Chancellor of the Exchequer to end the 25 per cent. rate of VAT, which is having a marked effect on the work of those employed in our television factories?

Mr. Shore

I assure the hon. Lady that I am in close touch with my right hon. Friend the Chancellor. All matters relevant to the success and health of the British television industry are discussed between us.