HC Deb 10 January 1977 vol 923 c1040
22. Mr. Hooley

asked the Secretary of State for Trade how many trade delegations visited Nigeria in 1975 and 1976.

Mr. Meacher>

There were nine trade missions to Nigeria in 1975 and nine in 1976 officially sponsored by the British Overseas Trade Board.

Mr. Hooley

Is my hon. Friend aware that the information he has given is very welcome? Is he also aware that Nigeria is now the largest and most rapidly expanding African trading partner of this country? Will he take note of this matter and abandon the Department's morbid obsession with expanding trade with South Africa?

Mr. Meacher

My hon. Friend is right in his comment since £700 million of trade is carried out with Nigeria as against over £600 million with South Africa. Trade missions are assisted by the BOTB, but without any direction from the Government. This merely reflects the wishes of industry in choice of market. I take note of my hon. Friend's comments.