§ 5. Mr. Arnold Shawasked the Minister of Public Building and Works whether he is aware of the export opportunities within the construction industry; and what action he is taking to encourage such exports.
§ 16. Mr. Moreasked the Minister of Public Building and Works what is his policy regarding ways and means of increasing exports by the construction industry; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MellishThree construction industry groups are active in the export field—the consultants, the contractors and the materials manufacturers. I have seen each group separately, and recently brought the three together for a discussion on the opportunities for expanding business. I hope to help them to collaborate more closely, particularly in the field of market intelligence.
§ Mr. ShawAlthough that Answer will give a great deal of satisfaction, will my right hon. Friend keep the matter under constant review and see that the industry plays its due part?
§ Mr. MellishI am obliged to my hon. Friend. There is a great deal of good will in the industry. I have brought the British Consultants' Bureau and the Export Group of the Constructional Industry and the Building Materials Export Group together. I have asked my Parliamentary Secretary to be responsible for doing anything for the export drive to help these people. I am sure I have their good will.
§ Mr. CostainHas the attention of the right hon. Gentleman been drawn to the Cromer Report? Why did he not make reference to it? Is he coordinating in this matter with the Board of Trade?
§ Mr. MellishThis matter was discussed with these bodies when I met them and we have close links with the Board of Trade. At all the meetings I have held the Board of Trade has had representatives present.
§ Mr. MoreIs the Minister satisfied that the necessary co-operation is always obtainable from important authorities such as the Bank of England in questions of this kind?
§ Mr. MellishThat question concerns credit facilities. There is another Question on the Order Paper on that very point.