§ Mrs. LaitTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what discussions he has had with representatives of the tobacco and alcohol industries concerning the future of their industries since his appointment. [72199]
§ Mr. Byers[holding answer 25 February 1999]None, although my Officials continue to have regular contact with the Scotch Whisky Association to assist them in resolving many trade problems in a number of exporting markets. For example, at our request the EU has successfully challenged, through the World Trade Organisation, Japanese and Korean discriminatory tax regimes on spirits, and is presently pursuing another against Chile.
My officials also have contact with the Tobacco Manufacturers' Association to discuss issues of current concern to the industry.