Written question asked by Andy Burnham (Labour) on Thursday, 17 October 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 31 October 2002. It was answered by Alan Johnson (Labour) on Thursday, 31 October 2002 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, If she will make a statement about the future of the UK textiles industry. (Failed OPQ).

Answer: Andy Burnham: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she will make a statement about the future of the UK textiles industry. [76444]. Alan Johnson: The UK textiles and clothing industry faces a number of tough challenges to its competitive future. Globalisation has placed increasing pressure on it continually to raise its game to remain competitive and UK manufacturers need to adapt and modernise if they are to respond positively to the pace of change. The DTI is committed to building a sustainable future for the industry and strongly supports the industry's own Textiles and Clothing Strategy Group which aims to increase its competitiveness through the development of innovative products, more efficient production methods and by diversifying into new markets.

Secondary information