HC Deb 10 July 1968 vol 768 cc510-1
36. Mr. Wall

asked the President of the Board of Trade what discussions he had with the trade mission from the Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Crosland

I had a meeting with the leaders of this Mission at which discussion took place on the principal aspects of our trade and commercial relations. My hon. Friend the Minister of State also received members of the Mission.

Mr. Wall

I congratulate the right hon. Gentleman on meeting the Mission and hope for added success in this trade, which will do something to counteract the bad effects of the maintenance of the arms blockade on South Africa.

Mr. Crosland

The reasons for maintaining the blockade have been given time and time again, and it does no service to our commercial relations with other countries to conceal that political differences do exist between us. I made it plain that, while there might be political differences with South Africa and Southern Rhodesia, nevertheless we wish to retain good commercial relations.