HC Deb 21 May 1969 vol 784 cc80-1W
Mr. Eldon Griffiths

asked the Minister of Technology what representations he made in Moscow about the present adverse balance in British trade with the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics; and what progress he made towards the securing of Soviet orders for British automative equipment for the new car plants, Toglialti and Ijevsk.

Mr. Benn

The purpose of my recent visit to the U.S.S.R. was not to discuss the current trading balance but to review the Anglo-Soviet Technological Agreement in accordance with the provisions of that Agreement. I took the opportunity to impress on the Soviet authorities how much British technology has to offer over a very wide field, including that of the automotive industry. These technological links with the U.S.S.R. will, certainly, contribute in a practical manner to the opening up of further opportunities for British industry in the development of Anglo-Soviet trade.