§ 12. Mr. Rankinasked the President of the Board of Trade what consultations he is having with the Japanese Government in order to secure a relaxation of the restrictions on our trade with Japan.
§ Mr. ErrollThese restrictions are the subject of negotiations now in progress.
§ Mr. RankinI take it that at the moment the hon. Gentleman has nothing to say in the matter. Can he say whether there has been a change of emphasis in the Government's attitude to trade with the Far East in general? If not, why are they seeking to relax trading restrictions with Japan while, in spite of all that is said on the Government Front Bench, they are increasing the restrictions on trade with China?
§ Mr. ErrollThe hon. Gentleman's Question dealt only with trade with Japan. I am glad that he appreciates that we cannot say much while negotiations are in progress, but we hope to be able to provide for a further expansion of trade, including improved and larger quotas for United Kingdom exports to Japan. With regard to China, quotas have been introduced, but they will allow a further considerable expansion in trade.