§ Mr. Lambieasked the Secretary of State for Trade, in view of the effects on United Kingdom trade of the import regulations imposed by the Republic of Ireland on certain clothing and footwear items, as announced in the Tariff and Trade Practices of his Department on 18th July 1975, if he will take similar steps for the United Kingdom.
§ Mr. DeakinsThe Irish Government introduced surveillance licensing of imports of certain clothing and footwear items from all countries, including EEC countries, on 12th June 1975. I understand that import licences will normally be issued within three days of receipt of applications and should therefore not have any significant effect on United Kingdom trade. It is not proposed to take similar steps in respect of Irish imports into the United Kingdom.