HC Deb 08 April 1974 vol 872 c13
15. Mr. Ronald Atkins

asked the Secretary of State for Trade if he will consider the possible use of temporary and selective import controls as a means of reducing the balance of payments deficit.

Mr. Shore

I would refer my hon. Friend to the statement made by my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer in his Budget speech.—[Vol. 871, c. 277.]

Mr. Atkins

Is my right hon. Friend aware that import controls have been used in other countries whose balance of trade deficits have not been as bad as ours?

Mr. Shore

I am aware of the occasions on which import restrictions have been used in the past.