HC Deb 26 July 1979 vol 971 cc398-9W
Mr. Butcher

asked the Secretary of State for Trade what is the projected expenditure by the fairs and promotions branch of the British Overseas Trade Board on outward missions for the current year.

Mr. Parkinson

Approximately £1.3 million for 1979–80.

Mr. Butcher

asked the Secretary of State for Trade what is the current and projected level of staffing in the fairs and promotions branch of the British Overseas Trade Board.

Mr. Parkinson

The branch currently has 197 staff, 10 fewer than its authorised complement. The future level of staffing will depend on the outcome of the Government's review of public expenditure and Civil Service manpower and on the demand from exporters for the services which the branch is required to administer.