§ 21. Mr. William Hamiltonasked the Secretary of State for Trade whether, in the light of current trading practices of Japan, he will now introduce import controls on Japanese cars, electronic goods of all kinds and steel products.
§ Mr. MeacherI have at present no plans to do so. In the last few months there have been discussions between the British and Japanese industries at which the Japanese made predictions about the level of their exports to the United Kingdom of televisions and ball bearings. There have also been discussions between the EEC Commission and the Japanese 353W Government on bulk and special steels. I understand that the British and Japanese car industries will be meeting later this month.
§ Mrs. Winifred Ewingasked the Secretary of State for Trade what Government funds or Government contribution is being made to set up the Japan Trade Force, aiming at boosting United Kingdom exports to Japan; and whether the Scottish Council for Development and Industry is being invited to participate.
§ Mr. DellThe Government contribution to the Japan Task Force lies in the provision of a joint chairman and a joint secretary from the staff of the exports to Japan unit of the British Overseas Trade Board. The Scottish Council (Development and Industry) was invited to participate in the BOTB/CBI conference on 9th December, which established the task force, but was unable to send a representative. It has, however, been requested to contribute suggestions as to its operation, with which it will be associated, as appropriate.