HC Deb 02 April 1953 vol 513 cc1341-2
11 and 12. Mr. Ellis Smith

asked the President of the Board of Trade (1) what action is to be taken arising out of the Trade Promotion Conference held at Manila in March, 1953; and what policy is to be adopted on the suggestions there made for world trade expansion and price stabilisation.

(2) what action is to be taken on the barter trade recommendations made at the Manila Conference.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

The Trade Promotion Conference recently held in Manila was an informal meeting between representatives of a number of Governments and business interests for an exchange of views on a wide range of trade matters. Her Majesty's Government have not yet received the final report of the conference. When we do we shall study it sympathetically and with interest.

Mr. Smith

Having read the report of this conference, may I ask the Minister whether he does not agree that there were very encouraging signs for the expansion of world trade? In view of that, should not the Minister have worked out proposals to let the world see that we have studied the results of the conference? Has he read the recent Economic Survey, and does he not agree that greater responsibility than ever now lies on his shoulders to deal with this problem?

Mr. Thorneycroft

I have read the recent Economic Survey, and I would agree with the general sentiments expressed by the hon. Gentleman on the expansion of world trade; but I had better wait until I receive the official report before I comment upon it.

Mr. Smith

Has the Minister read the report of the last annual meeting of Associated Electrical Industries, in which Sir George Bailey is stated to have said that with regard to deliveries, prices and quality this country could hold its own with any country in the world, but that we were running into difficulties with regard to financial facilities? In view of that report, does not my Question show the need for action to be taken?

Mr. Thorneycroft

That raises rather a different point.