HC Deb 08 March 1971 vol 813 c8W
61. Mr. Tom Boardman

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry on what basis consultants employed by nationalised industries are permitted to tender for overseas consultancy work in competition with nationals of British private sector firms.

Mr. Ridley

Nationalised industries normally seek to work through, or in collaboration with, private British consultants when deploying their technical expertise abroad. My hon. Friend the Minister for Industry is currently discussing with consultants' representatives and the chairmen of the industries for which my right hon. Friend is responsible whether this collaboration can be extended.