HC Deb 12 March 1979 vol 964 cc34-5W
Miss Maynard

asked the Secretary of State for Trade what are the figures of import penetration for worsted yarns over the past five years.

Mr. Meacher

The estimated import penetration percentage for worsted yarns—based on weight—over the past five years was:

1974 11.3
1975 11.8
1976 15.3
1977 164
1978 17.3

NOTE: The overseas trade figures used in the calculation of these percentages include all trade in acrylic yarn—whether or not produced on the worsted system—and exclude all trade in viscose and polyester yarn.

SOURCE: Overseas Trade Statistics and Wool Industry Bureau of Statistics.

Miss Maynard

asked the Secretary of State for Trade why the multi-fibre arrangement has not protected the worsted yarn part of the textile industry.

Mr. Meacher

I shall reply to my hon. Friend as soon as possible.