HC Deb 21 August 1945 vol 413 cc462-3W
Sir P. Hannon

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he has received information on the requirements of Brazil for agricultural machinery during the next ten years amounting to an estimate of £55,000,000; if full information on the details of these requirements is being circulated to British manufacturers; and if the commercial branch of the Embassy at Rio de Janeiro is being instructed to direct wherever possible contracts to this country.

Sir S. Cripps

I am unable to identify the report to which the hon. Member refers. I have therefore asked H.M. Embassy at Rio de Janeiro to telegraph a full report.

Sir P. Hannon

asked the President of the Board of Trade if his attention has been called to the extensive plans now in process for the internal economic development of Chile where large schemes involving goods are contemplated; and if he will take all necessary measures to secure as large a proportion as possible of such imports for this country.

Sir S. Cripps

Yes, Sir. I will gladly do all I can to assist exporters both to Chile and to other Latin-American countries.

Sir P. Hannon

asked the President of the Board of Trade the steps he proposes to adopt for the rehabilitation of British trade in Yugoslavia and the Baltic countries; if diplomatic commercial representation is contemplated; and if the consular services on the pre-war basis will be restored.

Sir S. Cripps

I am anxious to restore British trade with the countries mentioned by the hon. Member, as soon as possible. A number of difficulties have to be overcome before trade can be resumed, and my Department is in touch with the Governments of the countries concerned. A First Secretary (Commercial) is serving at H.M. Embassy at Belgrade. Officers of similar status are stationed in Baltic countries. Consular officers are being appointed as the need for their services arises.

Sir P. Hannon

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he contemplates the issue in the near future of reports from the diplomatic and consular services on the economic conditions of foreign countries with special reference to the opportunities for the restoration and expansion of British export trade; and if he will expedite the publication of these reports and their presentation to Parliament.

Sir S. Cripps

A series of Reviews of Commercial Conditions in foreign and Empire countries is already being published by the Department of Overseas Trade. The series comprises 27 export markets. Sixteen Reviews are already on sale; another six are with the printers and the other Reviews are now being prepared.