§ 76. Mr. Jannerasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he is aware that countries of the Arab League continue to blackmail British firms not to trade with Israel; and if he will make a further statement on the steps being taken to protect British firms from this form of discrimination.
§ Mr. Ian HarveyThe Arab boycott rules are not, as far I am aware, applied to firms of third countries who merely trade with Israel, but only to those who are believed to have some stake in the Israel economy, for example, through investment in an Israel concern. If the hon. Member will furnish me with information about any specific cases he has in mind. I will look into the matter.
As regards the second part of the Question, the Board of Trade and Her Majesty's Representatives abroad give all practicable assistance to the British firms who become involved with the boycott in operation Her Majesty's Government's disapproval of the boycott is well known to this House and as the House will be aware, has been represented on several occasions to the Arab countries concerned.