§ 13. Mr. Proctorasked the Minister for Trade whether he will introduce new initiatives to improve the United Kingdom's world trading position.
§ Mr. Peter ReesThe British Overseas Trade Board and the Export Credits Guarantee Department are constantly examining their services and facilities to ensure that they meet the needs of United Kingdom exporters.
§ Mr. ProctorDoes my hon. and learned Friend agree that one new initiative might be the creation of free ports, an initiative which has all-party support and which would provide new trading opportunities, new investment and new real jobs?
§ Mr. ReesMy hon. Friend and the House may know that a working party has been set up under the chairmanship of my hon. Friend the Economic Secretary to the Treasury. It will take a close look at this problem. I know that my hon. Friend the Under-Secretary made a distinguished contribution to the proceedings.
§ Mr. Campbell-SavoursIs not the United Kingdom's trading position with France prejudiced by the introduction of measures against that country over the importation of milk that are transparently dishonest and unworthy of the British people?
§ Mr. ReesThere is no evidence that United Kingdom exports to France have been so prejudiced but I am sure that the general proposition made by the hon. Gentleman will be noted by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.