HC Deb 31 March 1987 vol 113 cc444-5W
Mr. Lambie

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will give details of imports of category 13 products, knitted knickers, pants and briefs, from China in 1986 and comparable figures for 1985; what steps he proposes to take to restrain such imports in future; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Alan Clark

Imports of category 13 products, knitted knickers, pants and briefs, from China amounted to 8,912,000 pieces, net of imports for inward processing, in 1986, against a comparable figure of 2,282,000 in 1985.

My Department is currently discussing the significance of these figures within the industry in the light of import trends generally and the impact on United Kingdom production.

Mr. Lambie

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will give details of imports of category 5 products, sweaters, from Mauritius during 1986 and comparable figures for 1985; what steps he proposes to take to restrain such imports in future; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Alan Clark

Imports of category 5 products, sweaters, from Mauritius in 1986 reached a total of 3,211,000 pieces. In 1985, category 5 imports were 2,412,000 pieces. My Department is currently examining the scope for action in conjunction with the Community.