§ Mr. Wyn Robertsasked the Secretary of State for Trade what consideration has been given within the European Community of the amount of export subsidy on Italian washing machines; and what action he proposes to take to prevent unfair competition.
§ Mr. MeacherNo substantiated proof of export subsidies on Italian washing machines imported into the United Kingdom has been produced, so the issue has 841W not come up for consideration within the Community. I am not aware that any member State has lodged a complaint about such subsidies. The Government remain in close consultation with United Kingdom industry and would look with urgency at any evidence that could be put forward.