HC Deb 22 February 1966 vol 725 cc228-9
Q2. Mr. Hopkins

asked the Prime Minister what steps he takes to co-ordinate the activities of the Treasury and the Board of Trade in the promotion of exports by small companies.

Mr. George Brown

I have been asked to reply.

The two Departments work closely and satisfactorily together on this.

Mr. Hopkins

Would the First Secretary recognise that while the E.C.G.D. at the Board of Trade provides valuable assistance to small companies which are trying to export, one of the great hazards which such companies face is the question of credit terms, a matter which comes under the Treasury? Is he aware that several export orders have been lost because of the length of credit afforded by the Treasury?

Mr. Brown

I do not accept that. It is the great help which the Treasury and my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer give that has enabled the E.C.G.D. to do what it is doing.

Mr. Hector Hughes

In considering this important matter will my right hon. Friend have special regard to the needs of the development areas?

Mr. Brown

We are doing that and we recently announced a number of new measures which we are taking for that very purpose.