HC Deb 15 November 1948 vol 458 cc16-7
23. Mr. John E. Haire

asked the Minister of Supply if, in order to increase sales of British cars in the United States, he will consult with the motor trade with a view to transporting the recent motor show to America for exhibition in the leading cities.

Mr. G. R. Strauss

Yes, Sir; but preliminary inquiries suggest that this is unlikely to be practicable.

Mr. Haire

Does not my right hon. Friend still retain considerable influence with the motor industry and will he not encourage them to see that very considerable free publicity would result from such an expedition to the leading States of America, quite apart from the fact that there would be no difficulty in selling the cars at the show?

Mr. Strauss

That is being considered by the motor industry, but there are very real difficulties and I am doubtful if, at the end, it will be found possible to do this.

Mr. Haire

Will my right hon. Friend say what are some of the difficulties?

Mr. Strauss

The difficulty of obtaining an appropriate hall, the difficulty of expenditure—which is a particular difficulty—and there are many others.

Air-Commodore Harvey

If one of the difficulties is that of shipping, will the right hon. Gentleman see whether he can get an aircraft carrier to take the whole show over?