HL Deb 10 October 1988 vol 500 cc584-5

3.1 p.m.

Lord Dormand of Easington asked Her Majesty's Government:

What action they are taking to increase trade with Czechoslovakia.

Lord Young of Graffham

My Lords, my department supports British chambers of commerce and trade associations in their joint venture exhibitions or business weeks in Czechoslovakia. Last month Sir Adrian Cadbury visited the Brno Engineering Fair on behalf of Her Majesty's Government. The Minister for Trade intends to visit Czechoslovakia next month, and we hope the Czechoslovak Deputy Prime Minister, Mr. Obzina, will visit the United Kingdom shortly.

Lord Dormand of Easington

My Lords, in spite of the encouraging Answer given by the Secretary of State, perhaps I may ask this question. Why is it so difficult—and in some cases impossible—for so many Czech businessmen to obtain visas to enter this country? is he aware that the presence of so many Germans and Japanese in that country indicates the scope for trade, and that this country is simply not taking advantage of it?

Lord Young of Graffham

My Lords, I am aware that the amount of our trade with Czechoslovakia is steadily increasing in both imports and exports. I fear that I cannot help the noble Lord with regard to the question of visas as that is not my departmental responsibility. However, I shall make the necessary inquiries of my colleagues.

Lord Williams of Elvel

My Lords, will the Minister confirm that there have been some problems with regard to language translation between Czech and English, and that the Department of Trade and Industry does not have sufficient facilities when Czechoslovak deputations come to this country? Can he comment on the situation? What are the facilities available?

Lord Young of Graffham

My Lords, if the noble Lord tells me that we are unable to produce Czech translators then I must accept his remarks; although this is the first time that it has come to my notice. I shall certainly inquire about it.