Grey Cloth Imports

HC Deb 27 April 1998 vol 311 cc27-8W

Mr. Mitchell

To ask the President of the Board of Trade what representations she has received about the duty imposed by the European Commission on grey cloth imports; what steps she will take to enforce this duty; and what consultations she has had with the Commission on this matter. [39320]

Mrs. Beckett

I have received a number of representations from the UK textile industry and others about the provisional anti-dumping duty that the Commission, against the wishes of a clear majority of member States, has decided to impose on imports of grey cloth. When consulted by the Commission, we made clear our firm opposition to such a step, which we believe to be against the interests of both the Community textile industry and EU consumers and will cost jobs. Collection of the duty is a matter for HM Customs and Excise.