HC Deb 27 October 1966 vol 734 cc1284-5
20. Mr. Fisher

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will accept the offer made by Freeport in the Bahamas of a 100 acre site for a permanent export exhibition.

Mr. Mason

I have not received any offer but a representative of the Port Authority has discussed his ideas with my Department.

Mr. Fisher

I understand that the hon. Gentleman will be receiving an offer. When he does so, will he bear in mind that Freeport is perhaps the fastest growing city in the world, 60 miles from the coast of Florida? It already attracts about half a million rich American business men and tourists every year, and therefore this may be a great opportunity for increasing our exports in an expanding market.

Mr. Mason

Discussions took place last week, and the port authority's representative is considering the next steps. Any scheme must depend on the support from British industry, and we must await its reactions.