§ 6. Mr. Ogdenasked the President of the Board of Trade what official action is being taken to support the establishment, extension and operations of the British motor industry in Singapore.
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Trade (Mrs. Gwyneth Dunwoody)I have received no specific request from the British motor industry for official support for its operations in Singapore. The normal range of Government services under which advice and assistance are available for firms engaging in overseas activities is at its disposal.
§ Mr. OgdenDoes my hon. Friend always wait to receive requests? Does not she offer encouragement as well? In view of the offer of the Prime Minister of Singapore, extending a very hearty welcome to British industry, should not she make special efforts to encourage British industry to go to a place where we are welcome and there is great potential?
§ Mrs. DunwoodyI accept my hon. Friend's strictures, although I was brought up to believe that ladies waited until they were asked. But I hope that it will be a matter for the commercial concern of the companies, who will be aware of the remarks of the Prime Minister of Singapore, and who, I hope, will actively follow them up.