HC Deb 01 December 1978 vol 959 cc404-5W
Mr. Ovenden

asked the Secretary of State for Trade what has been the percentage increase in the duty-free quotas for paper products from former European Free Trade Association partners in each year since 1971; and what has been the corresponding increase in home consumption of such products.

Mr. Meacher:

Prior to 1974, imports into the United Kingdom of paper and board products from EFTA countries had been admitted duty-free without quota. Duty-free quotas were imposed in 1974.

The following statistics for year on year increases in home consumption exclude newsprint, which is covered by a separate EEC quota for all sources:

independent inquiry into the oil spillage from the"Litopia"at the Anglesey Oil Terminal, which caused pollution of beaches on the North Wales coast.

Mr. Clinton Davis:

The oil spillage was from a ruptured discharge hose forming part of the terminal equipment. The contingency arrangements for dealing with such a spill were activated quickly and were largely successful. I have received a report on the operation which is being considered.

Mr. Wyn Roberts

asked the Secretary of State for Trade if he will arrange that some anti-pollution capability is available in the Conway-Llandudno area, in view of recent oil pollution from the"Litopia ".

Mr. Clinton Davis:

The tugs at the Anglesey marine terminal are permanently equipped for dispersant spraying and are, therefore, well placed to respond promptly, as in the"Litopia"incident, to any spill at the terminal. My Department's stocks of spraying equipment and dispersant for dealing with oil spills at sea are held in or near ports from which we can obtain suitable spraying vessels at short notice. If necessary, these vessels would rapidly join forces with the terminal tugs.