because of
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will give to the British Mu het
In all the circumstances I have come to the conclusion that'
for the benefit not only of our own industry but also to a
large degree for that of our traditional suppliers I must
retain in 1972 the present general system of quantitative
restrictions in addition to the tariff. I am fortified in taking
this step by the indications I already have of the build-up of
orders for next year and by the knowledge that in the rapidly changing situation affecting this industry I might not otherwise
be able to take action quickly enough to forestal disruption.
This decision has been the subject of discussion with the
Governments of countries that have been our main suppliers with
a view to demonstrating that nobody's interests would be served
by a surge of exports into our market in 1972 originating from a
wide range of sources. Whilst regretting the inconvenience
our decision may cause them we appreciate their understanding
of our problem. We have asked those who currently administer
restrictions at the point of origin to continue to do so, whilst
making it clear that should they find that impracticable we
shall undertake the task from here. All imports of currently
restricted cotton textiles from the countries in question will
continue to be restricted and I must stress that we will not
be prepared to license excess shipments in 1971 in anticipation of 1972 quotas. No assurance can be given that licences will be
issued for contracts entered into from today unless the Government
are satisfied that the orders can be accommodated within the quotas
for 1972. Fuller details of these arrangements are being issued
to those concerned. The arrangements, moreover, will make the
adaptation process to the EEC easier.
T