§ Mr. Kenneth Clarkeasked the Secretary of State for Industry whether undertakings on import substitution or import levels are going to be demanded of Japanese companies which seek to invest in the United Kingdom; and how appropriate import levels are to be fixed by the Government in requesting such undertakings.
Mr. Alan WilliamsProposals by foreign companies to invest in the United Kingdom are considered on their merits. Where the proposals relate to sensitive industrial sectors, my Department negotiates with the company to secure undertakings which will ensure that the project is in the national interest. These undertakings can include assurances on import substitution and the level of imports by the company. Overall import levels are a matter for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade.