HC Deb 01 February 1984 vol 53 cc253-4W
Mr. Nicholas Winterton

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what representations he has made to the European Economic Community for the continuation of the inner limit governing the importation into the European Economic Community of cashmere knitwear under category 5 and at its level of 46,800 units in the renegotiation of the current textiles trade agreement with the People's Republic of China which technically expired on 31 December 1983; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Channon

In accordance with its provisions the EC-China textile agreement has been tacitly renewed, though negotiations about new quota levels and other possible adjustments have not yet been concluded. The need for the continuation of the inner limit for Cashmere knitwear within category 5 has been emphasised to the Commission and is part of the Community negotiating brief. Pending the outcome of the negotiations quotas for the coming year have been established, and were published in theOfficial Journal of the European Communities No. L15 of 18 January 1984.