HC Deb 13 April 1943 vol 388 c1059
70. Dr. Russell Thomas

asked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department what steps he is taking to secure post-war markets for our export trade in South American countries, especially in Brazil?

Mr. Harcourt Johnstone (Secretary, Department of Overseas Trade)

The objective to which my hon. Friend refers is receiving full consideration as part of the comprehensive study which, as has been already stated in this House, is being made by the Committee on Post-War Export Trade with the assistance of my Department and its overseas officers.

Dr. Thomas

In view of the vast undeveloped resources of Brazil and the fact, as I know from general information, that they are desirous of trading with this country when the war is over, would my hon. Friend consider setting up, or be ready to set up when the war is over, some export organisation in Brazil to act in co-operation and liaison with the manufacturers of this country?

Mr. Johnstone

That and similar questions are under consideration.

Mr. Stokes

In view of the fact that Lend-Lease operations are now reciprocal, will the hon. Member use his influence to persuade our American friends to let up on their efforts to establish monopoly control in South America?

Mr. Johnstone

The whole question of trade with South America between the United States and ourselves is now being conducted with a view to the most economical use of the resources of both countries the United Kingdom and the United States for the prosecution of the war.