§ Mr. Litterickasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what was the cost of the meeting of the Northern Ireland Economic Council and the exhibition associated with it, held in London on 8th December 1978; and why it was not held in Northern Ireland.
§ Mr. Mason:The December meeting of the Northern Ireland Economic Council was held at my invitation at the Ulster Office in London, to enable Members to obtain first-hand knowledge of the facilities available there to assist Northern Ireland businessmen, such as the permanent exhibition of Northern Ireland products at the Ulster Trade Centre. They were addressed by Sir Frederick Catherwood, the chairman of the British Overseas Trade Board, on exports and marketing. Publicity stimulated by the special meeting in London contributed to Northern Ireland's industrial promotional campaign. The total cost of the meeting and working lunch was £1,096 in travel and catering expenses.