HC Deb 02 March 1943 vol 387 cc453-4
5. Major Braithwaite

asked the President of the Board of Trade what results have accrued from the formation of the Export Group of constructional industries formed by his Department a year ago; whether satisfactory progress has yet been made; and what further steps he is taking to further British interests?

Mr. Dalton

As my hon. and gallant Friend is aware, since the formation of this Export Group in August, 1940, the opportunities of undertaking constructional contracts overseas have been very limited. But, like other Export Groups, this Group will have a most important part to play in the expansion of export trade after the war. I am glad to say that they have already made some suggestions to my Department for post-war developments, and further discussions are to take place.

Mr. Simmonds

Has the Department refused any licences where this Group could have obtained business' abroad?

Mr. Dalton

I think I had better see that Question on the Paper.