asked the Secretary of State for Industry whether he will make a statement on the progress of his inquiries into the future of the British footwear manufacturing industry in the light of the increasing volume of imports from low-wage countries.

In my reply to the hon. Member for Melton (Mr. Latham) on 3rd February—[Vol. 885, c. 934–5]—I stated that a steering group to oversee a study of the footwear industry was being set up. It is now hoped that the first meeting of the group will take place next month. The effect on the industry of current levels of low-cost import competition will certainly be one central item on its agenda.