UK FURNITURE INDUSTRY

That this House recognises the significant contribution made by the furniture manufacturing industry to the UK economy, with an annual turnover of £11 billion and employing approximately 150,000 people; recognises the public sector procurement opportunities that exist in the UK; calls on the Government and Office of Government Commerce to create a level-playing field for UK furniture manufacturers when competing with overseas competitors for UK public sector procurement opportunities; notes with concern the UK's flammability regulations that currently contain too many health and safety loopholes allowing flammable materials onto the high street; and finally notes with concern the Department of Trade and Industry's (DTI) possible decision to downgrade the furniture industry within the Department; and believes that the industry should be made a priority industry by the DTI.