§ 81. Sir T. Beamishasked the Secretary of State for the Environment to what extent he estimates that the 1972 quotas for commercial vehicles permitted to carry goods to and through Europe, especially to France, Western Germany and Italy, fall short of the United Kingdom requirements; if he is aware that the refusal by France and Western Germany to issue sufficient permits and the failure of Italy to announce any quota is inhibiting British exports; in what terms he has protested; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. PeytonI estimate that the 1972 Italian quota, which has recently been agreed, will only meet about half the genuine demand. The proportions for France and Western Germany are about three-fifths and four-fifths respectively. I am well aware of the difficulties caused by these restrictions and will continue to urge the need for liberalisation at every suitable opportunity.