HC Deb 05 March 1973 vol 852 cc9-10
8. Mr. Thomas Cox

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when he last met representatives of the motor manufacturers association.

The Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (Mr. Peter Walker)

My right hon. Friend the Minister for Industrial Development met representatives of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders on 10th October 1972, and my colleagues and I meet the industry's leaders frequently.

Mr. Cox

I thank the right hon. Gentleman for that reply. Is he aware that many thousands of British motorists who travel to Europe, especially during the summer months, and unfortunately break down or become involved in a crash often have great difficulty in trying to obtain parts because of the lack of after-sales service by British manufacturers in Europe? Will he bring this matter to the attention of the association when he next meets it? Not only does it present a problem to the British motorist but it does nothing to enhance our reputation in Europe.

Mr. Walker

I will discuss this matter with the motor manufacturers association.

Mr. Body

Has my right hon. Friend yet received the opinion of members of the association about the prices and incomes policy and, in their view, the inhibiting effect that it will have upon investment and, therefore, future production?

Mr. Walker

I do not believe that it will have an inhibiting effect on investment programmes. I think that inflation would do considerable damage to export prospects.

Mr. Benn

Will the right hon. Gentleman confirm that the provisions of the Green Paper "The Price and Pay Code", which we are debating today, dealing with transfer pricing, will permit him under the powers which he is seeking to enter into all the internal transactions of American motor car companies here so that he can be satisfied that transfer payments are not made in such a way as to evade Government policy?

Mr. Walker

That is something that can be dealt with in the debate this afternoon.