HC Deb 14 July 1980 vol 988 c1047
17. Mr. Neubert

asked the Secretary of State for Trade whether he will make a statement on his Department's activities in promoting exports of British goods and services.

Mr. Parkinson

My Department provides a wide range of facilities to help British exporters promote their goods and services overseas. The facilities of the Export Credits Guarantee Department are also available to assist exporters.

Mr. Neubert

Does my hon. Friend take the view that, in addition to his Department's activities in the direct promotion of exports, like the BBC's external services, the activities of the British Council abroad give indirect assistance to exports by creating a climate in which foreigners are more disposed to do business with the United Kingdom? Does my hon. Friend take regular opportunities to impress this on his colleagues at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office?

Mr. Parkinson

I do, and when I visit other countries, taking groups of business men with me, I see the British Council. I find that is contains some of the most entrepreneurial people that one meets representing our country abroad.