§ Mr. Thorpeasked the Secretary of State for Industry whether he will make a statement following his discussions with the Japanese manufacturers of zip fasteners operating in this country.
§ Mr. MeacherThe British Zip Fastener Manufacturers Association (ZFM A) had represented to the Department that the Japanese manufacturer was140W importing large quantities of low-cost finished fasteners and semi-fabricated pieces for finishing at the United Kingdom factory, and that this practice make it difficult for British manufacturers to compete on equal terms. Subsequently YKK, whose factory here has been operating for three years, informed the Department that it planned to increase substantially over the next four years the British content of its United Kingdom operation. I welcome these assurances from YKK about its intentions and will continue in close touch with the company. The company's plans will create additional employment in a development area, will lead to a greater use of British raw materials, will reduce imports of both complete fasteners and components, and will improve exports.