HC Deb 22 July 1959 vol 609 cc1277-8
45. Mr. Mayhew

asked the Prime Minister to what extent it is intended that the British Exhibition in Moscow in 1961 will present a broad picture of British achievements and the British way of life; and for what reason he has allocated responsibility for exhibitions to the Board of Trade.

The Secretary of State for the Home Department and Lord Privy Seal (Mr. R. A. Butler)

I have been asked to reply.

The British Trade Fair in Moscow in 1961 is being organised by the Association of British Chambers of Commerce. Its aim will be first and foremost to help to sell British goods. Accordingly, the responsibility for organising an official exhibit within the Fair will rest with the Board of Trade as the Department responsible for external trade. Departmental responsibility in relation to exhibitions depends on the nature and purpose of the particular exhibition.

Mr. Mayhew

Is the Home Secretary aware that when the Association and the Board of Trade were given responsibility for this exhibition it was thought that these two exhibitions, the Russian and the British, were to be trade exhibitions? Is he aware that the Russians are now proposing to use their exhibition to give a total picture of life in the Soviet Union? Should not we do the same and look again at who should be responsible for our exhibition?

Mr. Butler

I understand that in fact the Russians are following our example in that the all-Russian Chamber of Commerce will be responsible for the Russian Trade Fair to be organised in London in the same summer. To that extent there is a comparison between the two. I will certainly consider anything said by the hon. Gentleman, who is experienced in these matters, and bring it to the attention of my right hon. Friend.

Mr. Bottomley

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that when the Board of Trade was responsible for the British Industries Fair, it made arrangements for Commonwealth countries to exhibit as well? Is it intended that that should happen on this occasion?

Mr. Butler

I will consider that with my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade.