asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the position of the tanning industry in Scotland.

I am aware that a number of firms in the industry, faced with rising costs for raw materials, are having cash flow difficulties and are receiving assistance from the Government through the Temporary Employment Subsidy Scheme.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what recent representations he has had from the Scottish tanning industry; and if he will make a statement.

I have received no representations from the industry.