asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he intends to continue with the system whereby motor vehicle tyres are imported under quota; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Tyre Imports.
49.
It is not proposed that the quota restrictions on the importation of motor tyres should continue beyond the 31st December, 1969.
Under the terms of the Anglo-Irish Free Trade Area Agreement, quota restrictions on motor tyres of UK origin were terminated on 1st July, 1966. Following difficulties created by increased imports the manufacturers requested the restoration of quota protection for a temporary period. In accordance with the provisions of Article XIX of the Anglo-Irish Free Trade Area Agreement, the British authorities were consulted and agreed to the re-imposition of quota protection and its retention up to the 31st December, 1969, by which time a programme of reorganisation and rationalisation which had been undertaken at the factory would be well in hand. The Government accordingly have made an order revoking the restrictions imposed by the quota, with effect from 1st January, 1970.
Is the Minister satisfied that this will not create any problems and that the industry will now be able to maintain employment when the quota is removed?
All the information at my disposal suggests that this would be so.