§ 32. Mr. Frederick Peartasked the President of the Board of Trade what action his Department proposes to take to regain European markets for British cycles and motor cycles.
§ The President of the Board of Trade (Mr. Peter Thorneycroft)The number of motor cycles exported from the United Kingdom to Europe in the first nine months of this year was greater than the number exported in the whole of 1950 and more than twice the annual average from 1936 to 1938. The number of pedal cycles exported to Europe shows a similar increase. The question of regaining these markets in Europe as a whole does not arise, but I am, of course, alive to the need for further expansion, and this need will be kept in mind in our trade negotiations.
§ Mr. PeartCan we have an assurance that the recent drastic cut in imports will not affect this very important export trade?
§ Mr. ThorneycroftThat question, of course, could hardly be addressed to me. It would have to be addressed to the countries concerned. However, I certainly hope not, and I would pay a tribute to the men and managements in the industry for their magnificent effort.