HC Deb 05 March 1973 vol 852 c30
33. Mr. Jay

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry on what products the preference in favour of British exports has been terminated or reduced by the Australian or New Zealand Governments since 1st January 1973.

Mr. Peter Walker

Imports into Australia of most goods of types not produced there have since 1st February been duty-free whatever their source. Consequently there is now no preference in favour of British exports of the goods concerned. The New Zealand Government has reduced the preference on certain marine engines.

Mr. Jay

Though I agree that it is a matter so far of loss of preference rather than actual imposition of new tariffs, may I ask how great the Secretary of State expects the loss of British exports to these markets to be?

Mr. Walker

I hope that other activities and promotional activities which my Department will be following during the coming year will ensure that trade with Australia and New Zealand continues to expand rather than contract.