HC Deb 28 November 1961 vol 650 cc219-20
14. Mr. Gower

asked the President of the Board of Trade what plans he has for instituting annual international trade fairs in Great Britain as a contribution to our export drive; and if he will make a statement.

Sir K. Joseph

This is primarily a matter for industry. Many trade fairs take place in Great Britain every year, and they are tending to become more international in character. Any extension of this activity is primarily a matter for industry.

Mr. Gower

Is it not a fact that on both sides of the Iron Curtain, in both Eastern and Western countries, international trade fairs are sponsored and assisted by the Governments of those countries? Is it not also a fact that these fairs result in the assembly in the countries where they are held of a large number of exhibitors and buyers from all over the world? Would not fairs of that kind be likely to be beneficial to our exports? Should not my hon. Friend and his right hon. Friend be treating the matter with a greater sense of urgency?

Sir K. Joseph

We already have a very large number of fairs in this country, and it is for industry to suggest and arrange increases in them. My right hon. Friend has been able to do what I think is so valuable—to increase dramatically the amount of money available to help industry to show in exhibitions abroad.

Mr. Gower

Is not my hon. Friend aware that in other countries proper buildings and stands are provided on a more ambitious scale than obtains in this country, and also that fairs in this country have hitherto been rather national in character and limited in scope? Will not my hon. Friend look at the matter again?

Sir K. Joseph

There has been a recent Adjournment debate on this subject, and I would refer my hon. Friend to HANSARD of 29th June. There are substantial exhibition buildings in this country, and it is not proven that there is need for further ones.