HC Deb 10 May 1976 vol 911 cc11-2W
21. Mr. Higgins

asked the Secretary of State for Trade whether consultations have taken place between his Department and the Post Office regarding shipments of mail between the United Kingdom and Africa in Russian vessels; on what dates any such consultations took place; and at what level they were conducted.

Mr. Clinton Davis

There were no prior consultations on this matter, but it was discussed on 6th May at a meeting chaired by an Assistant Secretary of the Department of Trade.

Mr. Higgins

asked the Secretary of State for Trade what estimate he has made of the cost to the balance of payments of the nationalised industries using Russians ships; and which nationalised industries do so or propose to do so.

Mr. Clinton Davis

Precise information is not available, but the balance of payments cost is negligible. While I would like to see nationalised industries using British ships, they are entitled to use their commercial judgment in matters of day-to-day management except that they are expected to follow Her Majesty's Government's traditional policies of free and fair competition. The Government are watching the position carefully.