HC Deb 16 February 1981 vol 999 cc8-9W
Mr. Cryer

asked the Secretary of State for Trade if he will make a statement on the progress of integration of Greece into the European Economic Community; what safeguards exist for the United Kingdom textile and clothing industry; and what action he proposes to take if disruption takes place.

Mr. Parkinson

The Government welcomed Greece's accession to the European Community on 1 January this year. The Treaty of Accession includes provision for a general transitional period lasting five years. During that transitional period any member State may, under article 130 of the Treaty, apply to the Commission for protective measures to be taken should exports from Greece in any particular sector, including textiles and clothing, cause serious and persistent economic difficulties.