§ 105. Mr. Hastingsasked the President of the Board of Trade what steps he is taking to increase the export of British cars to countries of the Commonwealth, in view of the depression in the industry.
§ Mr. LowThe industry's main difficulties in Commonwealth markets this year have arisen from the intensification of import restrictions in Australia and New Zealand. My right hon. Friend has told the Governments of both of these countries of the serious situation which confronts the British motor industry and has made clear to them how helpful any relaxation in their import restrictions on motor vehicles would be.
Over the bulk of our motor car trade, the restrictions on imports into the Union of South Africa do not, I understand, damage our sales. Exports to the other main Commonwealth markets, with the exception of India and Pakistan, are not subject to restrictions.
In general, I would draw the hon. Member's attention to the reply about the Export Credits Guarantee Department's facilities, given on Tuesday, 11th December, by my right hon. Friend the Financial Secretary to the Treasury in answer to a supplementary Question by the hon. Member for Coventry, South (Miss Burton).