§ 28. Mr. HANNONasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has received a communication from the National Union of Manufacturers expressing the view that the Foreign Office should take a more active interest in matters relating to the extension of British trade in foreign countries and give special attention to the case of large contracts which, through diplomatic intervention, might be brought to this country and contribute to the relief of unemployment; and if the diplomatic influence of the Foreign Office will be more actively employed in future in watching over the interests of British trade in foreign countries?
Mr. A. HENDERSONI have received the communication referred to. I can assure the hon. Member that His Majesty's representatives are at all times prepared to give all proper support to the efforts of British exporters to secure contracts and orders. The question of strengthening the commercial side of the diplomatic staff in various countries is, as has already been announced, being considered by His Majesty's Government.
§ Mr. HANNONWill the right hon. Gentleman indicate to the House the 906 steps he is taking to strengthen our commercial representation abroad with a view to increasing British trade?
§ Mr. MILLSAnd will he also remind the House that it was the action of the Geddes Committee, supported by the hon. Member opposite, which robbed us of our Consular Service?
Mr. HENDERSONI have already said, in reply to questions, that we are considering an increase of the staff. With regard to the diplomatic representatives, I have made it my business, when they have called upon me, during leave, to impress upon them the importance of giving all the attention they possibly can to the increase of British trade.
§ Mr. HANNONThank you.