§ Sir David MadelTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what measures his Department is planning in 1994 to limit imports of inferior quality slate; and if he will make a statement.
131W
§ Sir George YoungIt is not appropriate to limit imports of slate products directly. However, slate used in the United Kingdom should be suitable for our climatic and atmospheric conditions as well as for their specified purpose. The appropriate requirements are set out in a British standard, BS680, satisfaction of which will ensure compliance with building regulations where applicable. My Department is seeking to ensure that the benefits of the British standard are carried over into harmonised European standards.
§ Sir David MadelTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what measures of export assistance his Department will undertake in 1994 to help the slate industry; and if he will make a statement.
§ Sir George YoungIn conjunction with the DTI, my Department maintains building materials exports task forces for France, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, the Nordic countries and North America. My Ministerial colleagues and I plan to have taken export missions to eight countries this year. All those activities are open to the United Kingdom slate industry. I would be happy for them to discuss any specific needs with my officials.