HC Deb 19 June 1978 vol 952 cc14-5
8. Mr. Madden

asked the Secretary of State for Trade what increase, on average, in percentage terms, there has been in imports, in each industrial sector identified within the industrial strategy, over the past two years.

Mr. Meacher

Estimates of import penetration, in value terms, for industries corresponding as closely as possible to the industrial strategy sectors were published in Trade and Industry on 19th May.

Mr. Madden

Do not those estimates show that in virtually every industrial sector there is ever-increasing import penetration? Is it not a fact that sooner rather than later we need to introduce selective import controls if we are to defend jobs and British industries?

Mr. Meacher

In the year to June 1977, the latest year for which we have evidence, import penetration for all manufactured goods rose to 25 per cent. However, in many of the industrial strategy sectors there was no increase in import penetration. We must allow more time to ascertain how far the industrial strategy is able to reduce import penetration, or at least import penetration increases that are not matched by export increases. As my hon. Friend knows, there are substantial areas that are already covered by selective import controls. The Government are prepared to extend these where disruption is caused to an otherwise viable industry.

Sir A. Meyer

Has the hon. Gentleman noticed that those who call most loudly for import controls almost invariably are those who complain that the Common Market is inward looking? Will he confirm that there is no future for Britain as a trading nation if it follows a policy of massive import controls?

Mr. Meacher

Nobody was suggesting a policy of massive import control.