HC Deb 24 October 1989 vol 158 cc667-8
Q9. Mr. Allen

To ask the Prime Minister which G7 country has (a) the highest interest and (b) the highest inflation rate.

Sir Geoffrey Howe

I have been asked to reply.

Interest rates in the United Kingdom are higher than in other G7 countries. Italy has the highest underlying inflation rate. United Kingdom interest rates will stay as high as necessary for as long as necessary to bring inflation down.

Mr. Allen

In view of that reply, and in view of today's trade figures, I do not wish to ask a supplementary question.

Q10. Mr. Menzies Campbell

To ask the Prime Minister if she will list her official engagements for Tuesday 24 October.

Sir Geoffrey Howe

I have been asked to reply.

I refer the hon. and learned Gentleman to the reply that I gave some moments ago.

Mr. Campbell

I do not share the inability or unwillingness of the hon. Member for Nottingham, North (Mr. Allen) to ask a supplementary question. When the deputy Prime Minister meets the Prime Minister on her return from her triumph at the Commonwealth conference, will he encourage her to condemn the rebel cricket tour of South Africa?

Sir Geoffrey Howe

The Government will continue, as they have always done, to uphold the provisions of the Gleneagles agreement.