HC Deb 31 October 1990 vol 178 c604W
52. Mr. Corbett

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what discussions he has had in Europe about import ceilings for Japanese cars after 1992.

94. Mr. Martlew

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what discussions he has had in Europe about import ceilings for Japanese cars after 1992.

Mr. Lilley

I attended an informal meeting of Community Trade Ministers and the Commission in September which discussed this matter. The Commission is proposing a transitional period of continuing restrictions lasting until the late 1990s. The United Kingdom continues to press for early liberalisation. We remain adamant that cars made in the EC by Japanese-owned companies must continue to be allowed unlimited free circulation throughout the Community. I believe this has now been accepted by other member states and the Commission.