§ Mr. Cryerasked the Secretary of State for Trade if he has provided a reply to the letter from the Confederation of Wool Textiles Ltd., dated 13 May, expressing its disappointment at the Government's attitude; and if he will make a statement on the representations made by the confederation.
§ Mr. NottI replied to this letter on 22 May 1980. The confederation had repeated its concern at the current situation facing the wool textile industry; it had suggested a greater use of import controls, and a campaign to reduce other countries' barriers to our exports. I fully recognise the problems the industry faces. It is, however, not possible to insulate any sector of United Kingdom industry from present economic difficulties and a wider resort to import controls would not offer a solution to those difficulties. I accept the need to seek the reduction of other400W countries' barriers to our exports and the Government are doing all they can in this direction.