HC Deb 19 June 1978 vol 952 c20
14. Mr. Hooley

asked the Secretary of State for Trade how many trade missions have visited French-speaking West African States during the past two years.

Mr. Meacher

Since June 1976, the British Overseas Trade Board has supported three outward missions to these markets, representing 39 firms.

Mr. Hooley

I am grateful to my hon. Friend for that information. I note that he mentioned June 1976. Can he say how many more recent missions have been there? Is he aware that there are countries in French West Africa which have an immense amount to offer in trade, both in agricultural and raw material products?

Mr. Meacher

The figures which I gave in my original reply were since June 1976. But, in reply to my hon. Friend's query, I can say that there are two more trade missions to Francophone West Africa due to go out this autumn and one early next year. My hon. Friend is quite right that there are substantial market opportunities in this part of Africa, where in most cases we have much less than 5 per cent. of the market, which is much less than we ought to have compared with the French share.

Mr. Forman

Did that number include the trade mission to Niger? If so, did it include a deal with Niger on its supplies of uranium to this country?

Mr. Meacher

I think so, but I had better check the facts and let the hon. Member know.