HC Deb 31 May 1965 vol 713 cc166-7W
105. Mr. Ridley

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the dispute within the British Antique Dealers' Association, and in view of its responsibilities for certifying exports on behalf of Her Majesty's Government, he will hold discussions with the officers of that Association on its future rôle.

106. Mr. Chichester-Clark

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in the light of the recent resignations from the British Antique Dealers' Association, he will hold discussions with the officers of the Association on its future rôle.

Mr. Darling

The British Antique Dealers' Association does not certify exports of antiques on behalf of Her Majesty's Government. Certain overseas Governments accept certificates granted by the Association as evidence of the age of antiques for Customs purposes in order that duty-free importation may be allowed. These arrangements are outside the authority of Her Majesty's Government and while I see no need for discussing with the Association its future rôle in that regard I shall continue to follow the Association's activities with close interest.