§ Mr. Proctorasked the Minister for Trade what has been the percentage change in the level of trade in respect of imports and exports between the United Kingdom and the Republic of South Africa from 1962 to 1972 and from 1972 to 1982; and if he will break the figures down to show percentage changes for categories of items.
§ Mr. SproatOn comparable bases, the value of imports from the Republic of South Africa increased by 94 per cent. between 1962 and 1972, and by 149 per cent. between 1972 and 1982; the corresponding figures for increases in the value of exports are 96 per cent and 287 per cent. respectively. Because of substantial changes in classification and coverage, commodity details of the percentage growth in trade over these periods are not available on a consistent basis.
§ Mr. Clinton Davisasked the Minister for Trade if he will prohibit the export to the South African military forces and their agencies by any British company of all equipment of a strategic or military character.
§ Mr. SproatThe United Kingdom complies fully with the mandatory United Nations Security Council's Resolution 418 of 4 November 1977, which prohibits the sale of all arms and related material to South Africa. The necessary legal effect in the United Kingdom is given by The Export of Goods (Control) Order 1981 and The South Africa (United Nations Arms Embargo) (Prohibited Transactions) Order 1978 (as amended).