§ 39. Mr. DOUGLAS HACKINGasked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department whether he will state the number of acceptances he has received in reply to his invitations to foreign buyers to visit the British Industries Fair?
§ Mr. GILLETTThe number of acceptances received to date is 731 and they emanate from 52 countries. This is nearly 100 more than on the corresponding date last year. In addition, notification has been received from 258 overseas buyers that they have instructed agents in the United Kingdom to attend on their behalf. The number of overseas buyers who notify the Department in advance of their intention to be present is, of course, only a small proportion of those who attend the fair.
§ Mr. SMITHERSDave the representatives of the Soviet been invited, and have they accepted?
§ Mr. GILLETTThe hon. Member must give me notice of that question.