HC Deb 06 May 1968 vol 764 cc1-2W
27. Mr. Palmer

asked the Minister of Technology if he will state the estimated safe ratio of home orders to export orders for heavy electrical generating plant in order to maintain competitive tendering in overseas markets, adequate up-to-date operating experience and progressive research and development; and whether he estimates that that ratio will be sustained in the next three-year period.

Mr. Benn

The ratio of home to export orders in this sector is dependent on irregular large contracts and therefore varies widely. Any generalisation unrelated to the profitability of particular markets must be misleading especially at a time of improving export achievement.