§ 61. Mr. Newensasked the Minister of Technology if he will introduce legislation to prevent international companies from allocating world markets to their subsidiaries in such a way that British subsidiaries are excluded from important and profitable markets.
§ Mr. BennI am aware that this can be a problem. It is a matter for Government to discuss with, and where appropriate seek assurances from, international companies, rather than for legislation.
§ 62. Mr. Newensasked the Minister of Technology if he is aware of the transfer abroad of particular processes or the manufacture of particular components required by the motor industry as a result of rationalisation within international motor manufacturing companies with subsidiaries in this country; and what steps he proposes to take to deal with this problem.
§ Mr. BennAny plans by an international company for the rationalisation of production across national frontiers will normally involve a two-way flow. I am keeping in close touch with the companies concerned to ensure that U.K. interests are respected.