§ Mr. Knoxasked the Secretary of State for Trade (1) if he will make a statement concerning the effects on Great Britain's trade of the strike of staff operating the computerised Customs clearance system at London's Heathrow airport;
(2) what representations he has received relating to the strike of staff operating the computerised Customs clearance system at London's Heathrow airport; and what subsequent action he will be taking.
§ Mr. ParkinsonI understand that the dispute has had no discernible effect on the arrival of imports into this country, although there have apparently been some delays, subsequently, in clearing these goods from the airport. Export trade is not affected.
My right hon. Friend has not received any representations about the dispute, which involves national data processing service computer staff and is, therefore, a matter for the Post Office. While hoping that a speedy settlement can be reached, 785W I do not propose to take any action at the present time.