asked the Secretary of State for Trade what views on a new multi-fibre arrangement were expressed to him by the Trades Union Congress textile representatives at the meeting on or about 29 October; if he intends to meet them or to discuss this in the near future; and, if so, when.

At its meeting with my right hon. Friend on 29 October the TUC Textile, Clothing and Footwear Industries Committee expressed the view that consultations about the terms of a renewed multi-fibre arrangement should be started. My right hon. Friend suggested to the committee that it would be premature to do this immediately but offered to meet it again in a few months' time to discuss the question. No date has yet been set for this meeting.