HC Deb 23 November 1972 vol 846 cc466-8W
Mr. Deakins

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry why the recent application from the British Leather Federation for safeguard action under the United Kingdom General Preference Scheme was not advertised; and what is the policy of his Department in respect of the advertising of such applications.

Sir G. Howe

My right hon. Friend the then Minister for Trade announced on 7th August, in reply to a Question, that he was considering an application by the British industry for reimposition of the import duties on leather from developing countries. I do not believe that any further advertisement was necessary. Decisions about advertising any future applications for safeguard action will continue to be taken in the light of the circumstances of each case.—[Vol. 842, c. 1243.]

Mr. Deakins

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) why he has reimposed tariffs on imports of tanned leather from certain developing States;

(2) what representations he had from domestic producers of leather goods before reimposing tariffs on imports of tanned leather from certain developing States.

Sir G. Howe

When import duties were removed on 1st January last as part of the United Kingdom contribution to the Generalised System of Preferences for developing countries, we reserved the right to restore them in whole or in part if imports enjoying the preferences were causing or threatening serious injury to the British producers affected. It was found that imports of this leather from the four South American countries concerned would obtain about 25 per cent. of the British market this year, compared with 8 per cent. in 1971, and that the continued existence of a number of small tanners and the employment that they provided was seriously threatened.

Representations on the case were made by the British Leather Federation. There were none from producers of leather goods.

Mr. Deakins

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what consideration he gave to the availability of raw hides on the domestic market before deciding to reimpose tariffs on imports of tanned leather from certain developing States.

Sir G. Howe

This was certainly taken into account with the other factors in the situation.