§ Mr. Nottasked the Secretary of State for Trade if he will list the gross figure for new investment in the United Kingdom for each year from 1970 to the present from (a) the EEC, (b) other European countries and (c) the United States of America.
§ Mr. MeacherThe available information relates to gross direct investment in the United Kingdom by overseas companies, excluding oil and insurance, for the years 1970–74, where gross investment represents an increase in the total stake held by overseas companies in individual United Kingdom branches, subsidiaries and associates. The figures are as follows
In effect the purpose of the law being the protection of the consumer, the obligation to use the French language will only apply if the supply or sales relationship is formed directly with him.We are in close touch with the French authorities in order to make sure that the application of this law does not in practice create a barrier to trade.