§ 67. Mr. Hoggasked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department what steps he proposes to take to promote the export of British motor-cars and commercial vehicles after the war.
§ Mr. JohnstoneA number of discussions have taken place with individual manufacturers about their overseas organisation and future plans and facilities have been given to them to bring overseas representatives to this country for consultation. Ultimately, as in all industries, the development of overseas sales must largely rest on the initiative of the trade, but my Department jointly with the Board of Trade has always been in close contact with the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders and is prepared to give any assistance possible to promote future exports.
§ Mr. HoggWill my right hon. Friend make representations to his right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer to alter the system of taxation which prevents the development of a stable export market?
§ Mr. JohnstoneThat is a matter of argument. The S.M.M.T. are themselves quite capable of putting their case to my right hon. Friend, and they have done so.
Miss WardCan the right hon. Gentleman say what benefit the motor-car industry gets out of constant contact with his Department?
§ Mr. JohnstoneI can tell the hon. Lady. Together we can plan the future position of the export trade in motor cars from this country, and, incidentally, we can and do render facilities to the S.M.M.T., at this moment, in such things as bringing back their representatives from abroad for consultation with us and with them.