The countries where retailers have not passed on the benefits of globalisation are the ones most likely to urge protectionism.
British Retail Consortium Director General Kevin Hawkins said: "UK retailers can't risk next spring's clothing ranges being stranded at sea through EU members reneging on the original end date for Chinese quotas. The uncertainty must be removed by August with a commitment to free trade."
"Rather than penalising UK shoppers, EU members should look at why high street clothing prices have not fallen in many EU states. UK consumers have seen global trade brings lower prices. Average clothing prices are half what they were in 1996 but in France and Italy they have barely changed."
"Ironically China is becoming an increasingly important market for top-end textiles from Italy. In the end open global competition benefits customers and encourages manufacturers to raise their game."
"Gordon Brown's team must persuade their EU counterparts to introduce domestic reforms to get real competition into their retail markets rather than continuing to featherbed inefficient European producers."
British Retail Consortium Director General Kevin Hawkins said: "UK retailers can't risk next spring's clothing ranges being stranded at sea through EU members reneging on the original end date for Chinese quotas. The uncertainty must be removed by August with a commitment to free trade."
"Rather than penalising UK shoppers, EU members should look at why high street clothing prices have not fallen in many EU states. UK consumers have seen global trade brings lower prices. Average clothing prices are half what they were in 1996 but in France and Italy they have barely changed."
"Ironically China is becoming an increasingly important market for top-end textiles from Italy. In the end open global competition benefits customers and encourages manufacturers to raise their game."
"Gordon Brown's team must persuade their EU counterparts to introduce domestic reforms to get real competition into their retail markets rather than continuing to featherbed inefficient European producers."
