§ Mr. Hugh Jenkinsasked the Secretary of State for Trade why it is his policy that the bulk of British private investment shall be in overseas developed countries; and if he will take steps to direct the reversal of this policy.
§ Mr. MeacherThe choice of location for private investment is essentially a matter for commercial decision by the individual companies concerned. But in recognition of the benefits which private investment can bring to developing countries, provided it accords with their national priorities, the Government have a number of measures which help British investors in developing countries. These include double taxation agreements, bilateral investment protection agreements, a scheme for helping pre-investment studies and the Export Credits Guarantee Department's investment insurance scheme.