§ 55. Mr. Maxwellasked the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs what instructions he has given to Her Majesty's diplomatic staff abroad about the need for them to assist in achieving an increase in exports; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. George ThomsonEconomic and commercial work is a first charge on Her Majesty's Overseas services, and the staff of the services are well aware of the need described by the hon. Member.
The Foreign Secretary has indeed recently emphasised to all Heads of Missions in foreign countries the importance which he personally attaches to the export drive. When it comes to a choice between writing dispatches and promoting trade, we prefer exports to reports.