HC Deb 16 February 1981 vol 999 c3W
25. Mr. Cryer

asked the Secretary of State for Trade if he will impose quota control upon imported textile goods in those cases where he is of the opinion that disruption to the textile industry is being caused.

Mr. Parkinson

As the hon. Member must be aware, the great majority of imports of textiles, and also clothing, from low-cost countries is already under control. Problems have recently also arisen on imports from the United States and in this case I was able to secure the unanimous agreement of the Council of Ministers of the European Communities in December last that a new and urgent initiative was needed. The Commission has already held its first discussions with the new United States Administration and is to report back to the Council of Ministers tomorrow.