HC Deb 23 March 1994 vol 240 cc279-80
15. Mr. David Evans

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what is the annual export value of Scottish woollen scarves and mufflers for the past three years.

Mr. Stewart

Export values for the United Kingdom for scarves and other accessories of any knitted or crocheted material were £53.5 million in 1990, £53.4 million in 1991 and £65.2 million in 1992. Figures for the whole of 1993 are not yet available. I hope that this wraps up the information requested by my hon. Friend.

Mr. Evans

Will the Minister join me in congratulating the Scottish textile industry on its huge success over many years, against fierce competition? Is my hon. Friend aware that, since that lot opposite embraced the American-Anglo friendship, exports to America have increased? In view of that, will he give a particular hon. Member not the Grand Order of the Thistle but the "grand order of the muffler"?

Mr. Stewart

I hope that I can reassure my hon. Friend that the industry in Scotland is alert to all opportunities in the marketplace, both nationally and internationally. Indeed, there may well be an increased market among Labour Members who may wish to wear woolly scarves and hats made in Scotland when they visit their friends in Belgravia and elsewhere.

Mr. Norman Hogg

Is the Minister aware that, notwithstanding the figures for exports of mufflers and scarves, no mufflers and scarves in the colours of Clyde football club are available in Cumbernauld new town, where the club recently took up occupation of its new stadium? Is he aware that the new stadium is a great success, that it is part of a new complex for business in Scotland and that the people are enthusiastic about that, just as they are enthusiastic about bringing jobs to Cumbernauld?

Mr. Stewart

I am glad to reassure the hon. Gentleman that I entirely agree with him. Although I was not able to attend the opening of the new stadium, as he was, it is an excellent asset and advertisement for Cumbernauld new town.