§ 45. Mr. McNamaraasked the Secretary of State for Trade if he will make a statement on the import of cheap finished leather into the United Kingdom and its effects on British tanners.
§ Mr. Meacher:My Department has assisted the British Leather Federation—BLF—in presenting a case for countervailing action to the EEC Commission, and the European trade association—COTANCE—submitted an application to the Commission on 20th November. We have asked the Commission to include this subject to the agenda of the next meeting of the EEC Anti-Dumping Committee on 4th December, where we will of course give it our full support.
The Brazilian case is particularly urgent for the United Kingdom, but in addition the European tanners are concerned about leather imports from Argentina. The Commission is discussing the situation with COTANCE and is considering what action can be taken.