§ Mr. Biffenasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on present and prospective exports of United Kingdom goods to Saudi Arabia with special reference to capital goods and armaments.
§ Sir G. HoweThe value of United Kingdom exports to Saudi Arabia for each year since 1970 was as follows:
million 1970 £35.2 1971 £38.9 1972 £45.2 January to November 1973 £54.0 Approximately half of the value of United Kingdom exports to Saudi Arabia is represented by machinery and transport equipment.
It is expected that the upward trend in our exports will continue in the future.
The figures which I have given include exports of a small quantity of defence equipment.
§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry whether he will make a statement on recent negotiations which have taken place with the Arab countries on trade between them and Great Britain.
§ Sir G. HoweWe are in regular touch with the Governments of the Arab countries about our commercial relations.