§ 76. Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas Mooreasked the President of the Board of Trade whether any precise plans have yet been drawn up for the restoration of our export trade on which our post-war prosperity must ultimately depend; and, if so, whether he is in a position to give the House a broad outline of Government intentions?
§ Mr. Harcourt Johnstone (Secretary, Department of Overseas Trade)The Government are fully aware of the vital importance of expanding this country's export trade as quickly as possible after the war, but I am not at present in a position to add to the statements which my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade and I made in the Debate on 27th July last.
§ Sir T. MooreIn view of the widespread anxiety about this matter throughout the business community of the country, would not the Minister suggest to the Govern- 1555 ment that they should allot a day for a Debate on these precise matters?
§ Mr. JohnstoneThat rests with other people.
§ Mr. ShinwellBut is the Minister aware that in the Debate of 27th July neither he nor his right hon. Friend gave any definite information as to the Government's intentions? Has any progress been made since and, if so, can we be informed as to what it is?
§ Mr. JohnstoneYes, progress has been made. I have just stated in my reply that my right hon. Friend is not in a position to make any further statement at the moment.