Balance of Payments

HC Deb 17 March 1970 vol 798 c188

22. Mr. Ridsdale

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how the balance of payments for 1969 compares to the balance of payments of West Germany and Japan for that year, from information available to him from international sources.

Mr. Taverne

Our surplus on current and long-term capital accounts was £387 million. West Germany had a deficit of nearly £1,700 million. Japan had a surplus of £830 million.

Mr. Ridsdale

In view of the serious industrial strife which at present exists in this country and the effect this will have on the balance of payments, will the hon. and learned Gentleman advise the Prime Minister to introduce an industrial relations Bill forthwith to protect the balance of payments?

Mr. Taverne

To answer the hon. Gentleman in question form, how would he deal with industrial relations?

Mr. Orme

Can my hon. and learned Friend tell us of the incidence of industrial disputes in Japan and say whether or not they are higher than in this country?

Mr. Taverne

Not without notice.