§ Mr. McFallTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what is the current balance of trade in the textile industry.
§ Mr. Douglas HoggLatest available figures show that imports of textiles (SITC division 65) exceeded exports by £1,576 million in the 12 months to November 1989.
§ Mr. HendersonTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he has any plans to meet other European Community Ministers to discuss the textile industry.
§ Mr. Douglas Hogg[holding answer 5 February 1990]: The textile industry is often covered in the frequent meetings my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State and I have with our Community colleagues. It was last discussed at the Industry Council meeting on 14 November, which I attended. I anticipate that the subject will be discussed again at the next meeting scheduled for 13 March.