HC Deb 18 July 1988 vol 137 c770
2. Sir Anthony Meyer

To ask the Secretary of State for business since he took office as Secretary of State for Wales.

Mr. Peter Walker

Four.

Sir Anthony Meyer

Is my right hon. Friend aware that his achievements in securing jobs for Wales and in projecting a virile and energetic profile of Wales throughout the world are universally admired throughout Wales, and that the admiration is shared by many Labour-controlled councils? There is universal admiration, with the possible exception of two or three unreconstructed Labour Members.

Mr. Walker

The progress is exceedingly good. Overseas investment this year is already more than the record which was set last year. I hope that this progress will continue. I am pleased to say that in the past few days a major new investment from Germany has been announced.

Mr. Page

The House knows that whenever my right hon. Friend travels abroad he enhances the image of the Principality. Is he aware that he may be asked to reciprocate and to receive visitors? Will he guarantee that his officials will keep a welcome in the valleys for any visiting minor politician and ensure that he will not be held at gunpoint and sworn at?

Mr. Walker

I assure the House that the hospitality of the Welsh Office is total and that no such incidents will take place.