§ Mr. Spellerasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what representations he has received from producers of water reed about the effects on the thatching industry of the growth of equivalent subsidised imports; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FletcherMy right hon. Friend the Minister for Trade has received one letter from the hon. Member for North Devon. We have received no evidence that the imported thatching reed is subsidised. Supplies of cheaper (and apparently good quality) reed appear to be in the interests of British thatchers and their customers.