§ Mr. Meadowcroftasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, pursuant to the answer of 19 February, Official Report, columns 751–52, what information he has as to how many United Kingdom companies in total hold either a United States distribution licence or approved foreign consignee status.
§ Mr. Alan ClarkWe believe there are about 1,000 United Kingdom companies holdings approved foreign consignee status under the United States distribution licence system.
§ Mr. Meadowcroftasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, pursuant to his answer of 19 February, Official Report, columns 751–52, if the United Kingdom customer records of United Kingdom companies holding United States distribution licences or approved foreign consignee status, will be audit inspected by United States inspectors; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Alan ClarkIf such companies were to give their consent it is possible that some records might be examined on a selective basis. I refer the hon. Member to the answer that I gave on 2 March at columns515–16.