§ 55. Sir G. de Freitasasked the Secretary of State for Trade whether he is aware that in the first quarter of 1978 imports of footwear from South Korea increased by 167 per cent. in volume to 4.5 million pairs, valued at approximately £5.5 million; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MeacherI am aware of the facts which the hon. Member has set out. However, although imports from South Korea have been higher so far this year than in the corresponding period last year, total imports of footwear have been lower. Nevertheless we are concerned about the possible deflection of low-cost imports into the United Kingdom as a result of protective measures taken by other developed countries such as the United States of America and Canada. The EEC Commission is holding talks with the main low-cost supplying countries, including South Korea, in order to ensure that their surplus production is not diverted.