I have recurring data fields in various types for example,

'*
'* Order detail lines. Each of these is dependant on the product type
'*
Type Flashings '* Product type FL etc
Record_Type As String * 2 '* Record Type
Material As String * 18 '* Material number
Quantity As String * 13 '* Character rep for quantity
Girth As String * 4 '* Girth in MM
Bends As String * 2 '* Number of Bends
Lock_Rolls As String * 1 '* Lock Rolls
Length As String * 1 '* Length in Metres
Base_Matnr As String * 18 '* Base material
Description As String * 40 '* Material Description
LongText As String * 40 '* Order long text
Top_Colour As String * 30 '* Top paint colour
Gauge As String * 2 '* Thickness
Substrate As String * 30 '* Substrate type
Top_Coat As String * 30 '* Top Coat type
Reverse_Coat As String * 30 '* Reverse coat type
Reverse_Colour As String * 30 '* Reverse Colour
Width As String * 4 '* Width
End Type
'*
Type Butt_Straps '* Product type 'BS'
Record_Type As String * 2 '* Record Type
....
....
End Type

(And no - Butt Straps ain't what you think they are.....)

BUT... What I want to do and cannot is this:

Type RecordType as String * 3

And then in my other types, use it like so;

Type flashings
Record_Type as RecordType
...
End Type

Type Butt_Straps
Record_Type as RecordType
...
End Type

How can I declare a UDT without having to specify it via the '.' notation ?

Regards