TNAG-0763-FCO40-967-Effect-of-GATT-Multi-Fibre-Arrangement-(MFA)-on-Hong-Kong-ex-1978 — Page 168

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Classification

The Commission representative introduced the outstanding classification

problems relating, in particular, to the case of Hong Kong. They concerned, firstly, windcheaters (not impregnated or weatherproofed), waisted jackets, (blousons) overalls, sports clothing -especially tracksuits and sweaters, and leisure wear. The French, Italien and Belgian delegations were primarily

concerned.

The Nomenclature Committee, the competent body to deal with these questions, settle them only in September.

Aagh!

The German delegation said that they had two main probleme: children's

trousers and women's jackets. They agreed that since children do not work childrn's trousers could not be classified as working clothes. However, Hong

Kong classified them in a different category than did the German Customs

Authorities. They also mentioned tarification problems which had by now been

under consideration for two years. They pressed for a quick solution because incorrect classification would raise other problems especially relating to

the exit from the basket, At any given time, the situation might arise in which the German Customs Authorities could refuse import licences or suspend the issue import authorisations if they noticed a discrepancy in classification

whereas the supplier country would be under the impression that the quota

remained unfilled.

The UK delegation supported the German delegation in pressing for a quick

solution of this problem but said that the Nomenclature Committee and not

the Management Committee was legally empowered to solve this matter.

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