§ Mr. Skeetasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry to what extent trade with Brazil has increased over the past decade; and if he will make a statement on the latest development in trade promotion with that country.
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§ Sir G. HoweOur exports to Brazil rose from £18 million fob in 1962 to £84 million fob in 1972. The corresponding figures for imports are £26 million cif and £86 million cif. Brazil is a fast growing market to which the British Overseas Board is giving special attention. Its series of promotional events include a major British industrial exhibition under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, opening in Sao Paulo in August next year. This will be Britain's largest trade promotion overseas in 1974.
§ Mr. Skeetasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will indicate the total of British, West German, French and Italian direct and portfolio investment in Brazil.
§ Sir G. HoweThe only information I have is the book value of British direct investments in Brazil, excluding oil, banking and insurance, which at the end of 1968 amounted to £61.2 million and by the end of 1971 was probably between £90 million and £100 million.