HC Deb 12 November 1953 vol 520 cc1123-4
18. Mr. Hurd

asked the President of the Board of Trade what further progress has been made in re-opening the market in Argentina for British goods.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

As my hon. Friend knows, Argentina gave us an undertaking in the Trade Protocol of last December to give all facilities possible in 1953 for the continuance of traditional trade between our two countries. There have, however, been prolonged delays in the issue of import licences for United Kingdom goods, although in the case of "less essential" goods the Argentine authorities have issued import licences for about half of the £3 million's worth provided for in the trade agreement, and are taking the necessary steps for the import of the remainder. Her Majesty's Charge d'Affaires in Buenos Aires has made strong representations to the Argentine Minister of Foreign Affairs about the delays in issuing licences for most British goods.

Mr. Hurd

Is my right hon. Friend hopeful that we shall soon see the benefits of the undertaking which President Peron has given twice recently, that all the sterling earned here by Argentina will be spent on sterling goods and services?

Mr. Thorneycroft

I am hopeful that, with the increased sterling which Argentina now holds, it will be possible to achieve an inceased flow of trade between the two countries, for that will be of mutual benefit all round.

Mr. Willey

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that, according to the latest figures, there was a short fall of 100,000 tons of meat from Argentina? What are the Government doing to help to get the meat out of Argentina?