§ 37. Mr. Swinglerasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what progress has been made in the review of the present restrictions on trade with China; and if he will now give instructions to the United Kingdom delegate on the Paris Consultative Group to propose a progressive relaxation of these restrictions.
§ The Joint Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Douglas Dodds- Parker)I have nothing to add to the reply given on 29th October to the hon. Member by my right hon. Friend the then Minister of State.
§ Mr. SwinglerIs the Minister aware that his previous reply added nothing, in fact it merely stated that the situation was the same as it was six or twelve months ago? Does it mean that the Government have now given up any idea of reviewing the embargo list or of trying to expand opportunities for trade with China, or what is happening?
§ Mr. Dodds-ParkerNo, Sir, as my right hon. Friend informed the hon. Gentleman, we are continuing to use the exceptions procedure in relation to this trade.