HC Deb 22 June 1944 vol 401 cc344-6
37. Wing-Commander James

asked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department what plans his Department has to meet the post-war overseas trade position.

Mr. Harcourt Johnstone (Secretary, Overseas Trade Department)

I fear it is not possible within the limits of an answer to give full details of the Department's post-war planning. I would refer my hon. Friend to the statement I made in the Debate on 27th July last. In order to improve the services of the Department to exporters I have recently appointed a Consultative Committee of business men with a specially wide knowledge of export trade to collaborate with the Department in reviewing its practice and procedure. The first meeting of this Committee will take place next week on 28th June.

Wing-Commander James

Are the officers of my right hon. Friend's Department studying the activities of their American opposite numbers, with a view to providing for British traders similar statistical information which they might require?

Mr. Johnstone

I think that the overseas officers of my Department render as useful service to British traders overseas as the equivalent officers of other countries, but we are most anxious to learn and if my hon. and gallant Friend will see me afterwards I shall be happy to hear about any instances which he has in mind.

Mr. Ellis Smith

Does not the right hon. Gentleman agree that preparation to bring about an increase in export trade after the war has become a question of extreme urgency? If so, can he give an assurance to the House that he will ask this Committee to treat the matter as such, and will he give an undertaking that he will put some drive behind the preparations that are being made?

Mr. Johnstone

The Committee has been summoned for that purpose, and will meet continually. I would remind the hon. Gentleman that the matter is one for all Departments, and not only for one Department.

Sir Frank Sanderson

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the best service his Department could do for traders overseas would be to remove all restrictions as soon as is expedient?