HC Deb 17 April 1956 vol 551 c833
22. Miss Vickers

asked the President of the Board of Trade the present position regarding the export of capital goods to the Republic of Indonesia.

Mr. Low

The export of capital goods to Indonesia is not restricted. United Kingdom exports to Indonesia last year amounted to £11.2 million of which about one-third were capital goods.

Miss Vickers

In view of the large potential market represented by Indonesia's 80 million population, will he consider granting extra credit facilities to enable Indonesia to purchase capital equipment? Might I draw attention to the article in The Times today which says that Russia is offering Indonesia economic aid on the same basis as she has done to India and Afghanistan? Will my right hon. Friend consider what he can do?

Mr. Low

Credit facilities are available for our exports for Indonesia. It would be wrong to consider any special arrangements for that area alone.