HL Deb 02 February 1960 vol 220 cc787-8

2.49 p.m.

VISCOUNT ELIBANK

My Lords, I beg leave to ask the first Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.

[The Question was as follows:

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether it is intended to open negotiations for a new trade pact with Japan, and if so, when; and what were the values of the imports and exports between the United Kingdom and Japan during the last period for which statistics are available.]

THE MINISTER WITHOUT PORTFOLIO (THE EARL OF DUNDEE)

My Lords, negotiations for new trade arrangements with Japan are expected to start on February 8. In 1959, United Kingdom imports from Japan were valued at £43.2 million, and exports, including re-exports, at £33.2 million. Over half the import figure was accounted for by canned salmon and other fish.

VISCOUNT ELIBANK

I beg to thank the noble Earl for his Answer.