Written question asked by Alex Salmond (Scottish National Party) on Monday, 21 February 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 6 April 2005. It was answered by Douglas Alexander (Labour) on Wednesday, 6 April 2005 on behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry.

Dept of Trade and Industry

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, what discussions she has had with representatives of (a) the textile industry, (b) clothing manufacturers and exporters, (c) the Scottish Executive and (d) Scottish Enterprise regarding small and medium-sized enterprises participating in exhibitions and missions in export markets under the Support for Exhibitions and Seminars Abroad Scheme; and if she will make a statement.

Answer: Mr. Salmond: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what discussions she has had with representatives of (a) the textile industry, (b) clothing manufacturers and exporters, (c) the Scottish Executive and (d) Scottish Enterprise regarding small and medium-sized enterprises participating in exhibitions and missions in export markets under the support for exhibitions and seminars abroad scheme; and if she will make a statement. [217959] Mr. Alexander: The textile and clothing industries have made representations to my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry and other Ministers about changes to the support for exhibitions and seminars abroad scheme from 2006-07. UK Trade and Investment has consulted industry and Scottish Development International on the detail of these changes, which aim to focus assistance on the small and medium-sized enterprises who can benefit most, namely new-to-export companies.

Secondary information