4. Mr. McKieasked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that technical and sales representatives of British firms are unable to obtain shipping passages for their wives to accompany them when taking up permanent appointments abroad; that many of them have only recently been demobilised and have been separated from their wives for several years and are unwilling to take up these appointments unless their wives are able to accompany them; and, seeing that the number involved would only be some 500, if he will take steps to provide facilities.
§ Mr. Marquand (Secretary for Overseas Trade)Yes, Sir. I am very anxious that facilities should he available for 2321 wives and dependants to join their husbands acting as resident technical and sales representatives abroad. Unfortunately, the number of berths available to most destinations is not yet sufficient to enable us to arrange this. Any berth thus occupied would deprive a business man or some other priority passenger of the opportunity to travel. I am sure that, wherever possible, these representatives will proceed to their posts. Every effort will be made to enable their families to join them subsequently. I am in constant touch with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport on the Question.
Mr. McKieWill the hon. Gentleman constantly bear this matter in mind, in view of the necessity of providing a stimulus to the export trade at the present time? Is he aware that this small facility would be of great assistance?
§ Mr. MarquandYes, Sir.
§ Sir Patrick HannonWill the hon. Gentleman give particular attention to the provision of these facilities for people travelling to South America?
§ Mr. MarquandI am hopeful that something might be done with regard to South America.