§ 13. Mr. Patrick McNair-Wilsonasked the Secretary of State for Trade whether he will consider improving the computerised intelligence service to assist overseas importers in search of British produce.
§ Mr. ParkinsonThe British Overseas Trade Board keeps the operation and efficiency of the export intelligence service under constant review. Up-to-date technology for processing inquiries from overseas was installed in 1979. A survey of exporters' views of the service will be carried out this year. This will provide guidance about any desirable future changes.
§ Mr. McNair-WilsonBritish embassies througout the world are now increasingly the focus for providing commercial information about Britain. Will the Minister consider discussing with his right hon. Friend the possibility of establishing computer terminals in British embassies? That would enable up-to-date information to 637 be given to those who wished to buy British goods. Frequently, at the moment, information is supplied on printed sheets that are inevitably often out of date.
§ Mr. ParkinsonI thank my hon. Friend for his interesting suggestion. I can perhaps answer him best by saying that he has added to the work of the review committee which will certainly consider his suggestion.