HC Deb 06 May 1986 vol 97 cc23-4W
Mr. Sheerman

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what recent representations he has received on the multi-fibre arrangement; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Alan Clark

Recently I have received representations from a number of hon. Members and others concerned with the interests of the United Kingdom textiles and clothing industries; of those in Hong Kong; and of the developing countries.

Mr. Sheerman

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he has made a further assessment since the Silberston report of the effect on (a) jobs and (b) profitability of an abandonment of the multi-fibre arrangement.

Mr. Alan Clark

No further study of the economic effects of the multi-fibre arrangement has been commissioned by the Government since the report prepared by Professor Silberston, but others have studied the effects of the MFA on particular interests and on the economy as a whole. I consider all views with interest.