50. Mr. R. C. Mitchellasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what was the total value of imports from and exports to Japan in each of the first three quarters of 1972; and what steps he is taking to increase exports to Japan in 1973.
§ Sir G. HoweImports from Japan in the first three quarters of 1972 were valued at £66 million, £61 million and £81 millon respectively (cif). Exports in the same period were valued at £37 million, £49 million, and £35 million for each quarter (fob). Figures for the third quarter were distorted by the effects of the United Kingdom dock strike and the Japanese shipping strike.
The British Overseas Trade Board has recently approved a major programme of activities designed to help British industry to export more to this high priority market.