HC Deb 20 May 1952 vol 501 c262
45. Mr. W. T. Williams

asked the President of the Board of Trade the extent to which vital exports to sterling, non-sterling and dollar countries, respectively, have risen or fallen since the beginning of this year to the last available date.

Mr. H. Strauss

Comparing the rate of export of United Kingdom goods in the first quarter of 1952 with that in the second half of last year, we sent 9 per cent. more by value to the overseas sterling area, 6 per cent. more to the whole non-sterling area, but 8 per cent. less to the dollar area.

Mr. Williams

In view of the serious fall in exports to the dollar area, will the Parliamentary Secretary say what his Department is doing to increase them and whether the dollar area tariff has anything to do with the fall?

Mr. Strauss

That is a different question and more suitable for debate, but I would point out to the hon. Member that it is, in the view of Her Majesty's Government, of vital importance also that we should increase our exports to the non-dollar area.

Mr. Lewis

Is the hon. and learned Gentleman aware that if only he would assist British manufacturers he could get an appreciable amount of export to both dollar and non-dollar areas of Coronation souvenirs? Will he do something to help manufacturers in that way?