§ Sir P. Bryanasked the Secretary of State for Trade how many jobs will be created by contracts awarded to British firms which have won contracts in the Hong Kong mass transit project.
§ Mr. MeacherIt is not practicable to make a precise estimate but the award to British firms of five electrical and mechanical engineering contracts worth in total approximately £55 million will certainly provide a considerable stimulus to employment in the industries concerned.
§ Sir P. Bryanasked the Secretary of State for Trade to what extent British technology and equipment is being used by local non-British firms which have successfully tendered for various contracts in the Hong Kong mass transit project.
§ Mr. MeacherI understand that there will be a significant British contribution, valued at £1.6 million, to a civil engineering contract awarded to a local non-British company. British firms may secure other sub-contracting business in due course.
§ Sir P. Bryanasked the Secretary of State for Trade if, in view of the fact that British companies have won five out 537W of the eight electrical and mechanical contracts announced by the Hong Kong Mass Transit Railway Corporation, he will point out to British industry the opportunities open in Hong Kong to progressive British companies.
§ Mr. MeacherYes. The British Overseas Trade Board and my Department will continue to keep British industry informed of opportunities in the Hong Kong market. The Senior British Trade Commissioner in Hong Kong will be visiting Britain shortly and expects to talk to businessmen in different parts of the country.