§ 25. Sir HARRY BRITTAINasked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department if the result of the British Industries Fair in London and Birmingham has been in every way satisfactory; and whether he is able to inform the House which sections of British industry have benefited most in the effort which has been made?
§ Mr. DOUGLAS HACKING (Secretary, Overseas Trade Department)I am very glad to be able to state that the results of the Fair, both in London and Birmingham, have been eminently satisfactory. The area of the Fair was 256,000 square feet in London and 180,000 square feet in Birmingham of net exhibiting space, both these figures being records, and representing a total increase of over 130,000 square feet from last year. The attendance of home and overseas buyers was also a record in each case, the number in London being 103,586 and in Birmingham 103,000. I may say that a large amount of space has already been booked for next year's Fair. I am confident that the Fair has been of real practical benefit to all sections of British industry which participated in it, and will undoubtedly lead to increased business.
§ Sir H. BRITTAINSince it has been admitted that the Fair has been such an outstanding success, will the hon. Gentleman consider whether the Fair could not be held for a longer period each year on a more permanent basis?
§ Mr. HACKINGThat question will receive consideration.