§ 38. Mr. Croninasked the President of the Board of Trade what percentage proportions of world trade were the United Kingdom's shares in 1951 and 1957, respectively; and what was the highest figure for the United Kingdom's share after 1951.
§ Mr. ErrollThe United Kingdom's share of total world imports and exports—excluding Eastern Europe, U.S.S.R. and China—was 11.7 per cent. in 1951 and 10.3 per cent. in the first nine months of 1957. The highest figure for the United Kingdom share after 1951 was 11.3 per cent. in 1952.
§ Mr. CroninDoes the hon. Gentleman appreciate that the steady decline in Britain's share of world trade since his party took office is a source of dismay and apprehension to everyone concerned? What does the Government intend to do to remedy the situation?
§ Mr. ErrollThe hon. Gentleman should remember that total world trade has gone up and he should not be deluded by percentages.