HC Deb 14 July 1930 vol 241 cc912-3
31. Mr. WELLOCK

asked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department whether, in view of the success of Lord d'Abernon's mission to South America, it is intended to send any further missions overseas, particularly to Empire countries?

Mr. GILLETT

The Overseas Trade Development Council have recommended to my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade that an economic mission should visit the Union of South Africa. This proposal has been welcomed by the Prime Minister of the Union of South Africa, and His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom have invited Lord Kirkley to lead the mission. Lard Kirkley has accepted the Government's invitation. It is intended that the mission shall leave this country early in August and shall visit Southern and Northern Rhodesia as well as the Union. A further statement will be made in due course regarding the personnel of the mission.

Mr. WELLOCK

Is it the hon. Gentleman's intention to continue this policy and expand it?

Mr. GILLETT

We are considering the advisability of sending missions to other parts of the world.

Dr. VERNON DAVIES

Will the hon. Gentleman bear in mind the needs of the cotton trade in forming this delegation?

Mr. GILLETT

Yes, we are talking all these matters into consideration.

Mr. HANNON

Can the hon. Gentleman say who will be the other members of the mission?

Mr. GILLETT

I hope to be in a position to state the names in a few days' time.