HC Deb 12 July 1960 vol 626 c88W
55. Mr. Slater

asked the President of the Board of Trade what is his latest estimate of the prospects for an increase in East-West trade; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Erroll

Our total direct trade with the countries concerned increased by 15 per cent. in 1959 as compared with 1958 and by 43 per cent. in the first five months of 1960 as compared with the same period of 1959. My right hon. Friend hopes that the trend will continue to be favourable but cannot give the hon. Member a quantitative estimate of the possible increase.