HC Deb 30 October 1947 vol 443 cc101-2W
74. Mr. Assheton

asked the President of the Board of Trade what financial commitments the Government have incurred in respect of the activities of the British Export Trade Research Organisation; what financial support this body is receiving from manufacturers, and export merchants, respectively; and whether in so far as its market research activities are concerned he is satisfied that it provides an essential service meriting assistance from public funds.

Mr. H. Wilson

An undertaking has been given subject to the grant of the necessary approval by Parliament, to provide an annual contribution for the next five years within a maximum of £150,000 in all up to half of the deficiency between annual expenditure and the revenue from commissions executed, subject to an equivalent contribution from other sources, mainly industry. The revenue derived from members, including manufacturers, merchants and other interests concerned with export trade is expected to meet this charge. The answer to the third part of the question is "Yes."