§ Mr. JenkinsTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she will make a statement on the contribution to the UK economy of the textile industry. [63671]
§ Mr. TimmsThe UK textiles industry accounted for 0.4 per cent. of UK GDP in 2000. In 2001, UK employment in the sector was 107,000 and UK exports were valued at £3.6 billion.
My Department recognises the UK textile industry as an important contributor to the UK economy and through its active support of the industry-led Textiles and Clothing Strategy Group, will continue to work with this key manufacturing sector to ensure it continues to improve and develop in the global economy.