asked the Secretary of State for Trade if he will make a statement concerning the import restrictions imposed on certain goods from Taiwan recently and the effect these restrictions had on those exporters who had letters of irrevocable credit and were affected by the sudden use of restrictions.

These restrictions were imposed on a Community-wide basis to protect the Community textile industries against increasing imports of cheap textiles from Taiwan. The effect on holders of irrevocable letters of credit has varied according to circumstances. Import licences are being issued for goods in transit on or before 30th September 1975 and in respect of which irrevocable letters of credit were opened before 8th August 1975. Representations have been made on other goods covered by letters of credit and I have yet to reach a final decision