§ Mr. Robert J. Bradfordasked the Secretary of State for Trade, in view of the dumping of foreign shirts which now represent 50 per cent. of retail consumption in the United Kingdom, if he will take steps to control these imports to restore confidence in the United Kingdom shirt industry.
§ Mr. DeakinsImports of woven cotton and polyester cotton shirts from the main low-cost supplying countries are already restricted; knitted shirts are not similarly limited but the question of restrictions on these goods is being considered in the context of the EEC negotiations with low-cost suppliers under the GATT Multi-Fibre Textile Arrangements.
We have received no application from the industry for anti-dumping action on shirts, but my Department is always ready to consider applications for antidumping action which are supported by prima facie evidence that the products concerned are being dumped within the meaning of the Customs Duties (Dumping and Subsidies) Act 1969 and are causing or threatening material injury to the British industry.