§ 34. Mr. Cryerasked the Secretary of State for Trade what representations he has received regarding the renegotiation of the multi-fibre arrangement.
§ Mr. EyreMy right hon. Friend has received numerous representations from trade associations, unions and other representatives of the United Kingdom textile, clothing and knitting industries advocating that the multi-fibre arrangement should be renewed on strengthened terms. We have also received reports from interests representing consumers, importers and the developing countries calling for a relaxation of import controls on goods covered by the arrangement.
§ 37. Mr. Woolmerasked the Secretary of State for Trade what progress has been made in the negotiations leading up to a review of the multi-fibre arrangement for trade in textiles and clothing.
§ Mr. NottThe textile committee set up under the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) will meet in Geneva on 9 and 10 December to review the operation of the current multi-fibre arrangement which expires at the end of 1981. I do not expect negotiations on a successor arrangement to begin until next year.