HC Deb 19 March 1964 vol 691 cc1575-6
32. Mr. Millan

asked the Secretary of State for Industry, Trade and Regional Development if he will make a statement on trade between Scandinavia and Scotland; and what steps he is taking to increase it.

Mr. du Cann

I am anxious that Scottish businessmen should take full advantage of the lowering of barriers between E.F.T.A. countries to increase their trade with Scandinavia. The export services of the Board of Trade are always at their disposal.

Mr. Millan

Is the Minister aware that, geographically speaking, Scotland is in a favourable position to develop trade with Scandinavia but there is a good deal of concern about the proposal to cut back the air service between Prestwick and Scandinavia? Will he look at this from the trade point of view and raise the matter with the Ministry of Aviation? Is he aware that there is a tremendous amount of concern in Scotland about the effect that this will have on trade?

Mr. du Cann

I agree with my hon. Friend about the geographical position of Scotland with relation to Scandinavia. It is gratifying that the United Kingdom exports and re-exports to Scandinavia are rising and have risen from £378 million in 1961 to £432 million in 1963. The hon. Gentleman will be aware that as was announced by my right hon. Friend in Geneva a week or two ago, the next E.F.T.A. meeting will be held in Edinburgh and we hope that this will help to cement an already happy relationship.

Mr. Manuel

Will the Minister take into account the salient point arising from the question of business interests between Scotland and Scandinavia, and do what he can——

Mr. Speaker

Order. I should have been quicker in stopping the hon. Member for Glasgow, Craigton (Mr. Millan) when he referred to this point, because of the next three Questions.