§ Lord BEAUMONT of WHITLEYasked Her Majesty's Government:
What financial assistance is available for small firms wishing to undertake export sales promotion journeys abroad in view of the present prohibitive cost of air travel.
Lord ORAMUnder the British Overseas Trade Board's Outward Missions 1845WA Scheme financial assistance is provided to groups of businessmen travelling abroad outside Western Europe under the auspices of an approved sponsoring organisation. The level of support, ranging from £50 to £550 per participant, varies according to the market or markets to be visited. In addition, for exhibitors participating in officially supported promotions at trade fairs and similar events outside Western Europe, the Board meets half the travel costs for up to two representatives from each firm. Both these facilities are available to any exporting firm, regardless of size, which can use them effectively.
The BOTB also operates a Group Export Educational Visits Scheme specifically for small firms wishing to pay familiarisation visits to markets in Western Europe. The scheme, involving payment of £50 per participant, applies to group visits organised by an approved Trade Association or Chamber of Commerce.