HC Deb 20 April 1961 vol 638 cc123-4W
48. Mr. Cleaver

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware of the restrictions placed on the sale of British motor cars to United States service personnel; and what representations he proposes to make to the United States Government to effect their removal.

50. Mr. Woodhouse

asked the President of the Board of Trade what representations he has made to the United States Government about its decision to restrict the purchase of motor cars in this country by members of the United States armed forces stationed here.

52. Mr. Lindsay

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has considered the orders received by all commanders of United States units in the United Kingdom, a copy of which has been sent to him, stating that while individuals are not restricted from contacting dealers to conclude their own arrangements, such action will not be in compliance with the spirit and the intent of the Buy American programme; and, in view of the effect of this upon Anglo-American trade, if he will make repre- sentations to the United States authorities designed to secure a lifting of this discouragement to trade.

Mr. Maudling

I would refer my hon. Friends to the reply which my right hon. Friend gave to his hon. and learned Friend the Member for Warwick and Leamington (Mr. Hobson) on 18th April.

49. Mr. Cleaver

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether any consultations took place between United States Air Force authorities and his Department before restrictions were placed on the purchase of British motor cars by members of the United States forces.

Mr. Maudling

No.

51. Mr. Lindsay

asked the President of the Board of Trade what representations have been made to him about the effect on the British motor industry of the United States ban on sales at United States air bases of British motor cars to United States service personnel; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Maudling

I have received representations from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders and from some individual traders. As my right hon. Friend told the hon. and learned Member for Warwick and Leamington (Mr. Hobson) on 18th April, I have made known to the United States Government my concern over the matter.