§ Mr. Wigleyasked the Secretary of State for Trade what was the value last year of imports by the United Kingdom from France; what were the main products imported; and whether he is satisfied that all steps are being taken in the United Kingdom to minimise the need for the import of such products.
§ Mr. DeakinsDetails of imports by the United Kingdom from France in 1974 are contained in the December 1974 edition of "Overseas Trade Statistics of the United Kingdom" (Table II), copies of which are available in the House of Commons Library.
Minimising the need for the import of products is a matter of improving our competitiveness which is one of the main objectives of the Government's industrial strategy. My right hon. Friend has also urged purchasers and their potential customers to establish deeper and longer-term relationships which should result in a higher proportion of domestic purchases.