§ Mr. Austin Mitchellasked the Secretary of State for Trade whether he will publish in the Official Report an estimate of the effect which the fall in United Kingdom output since May 1979, combined with the decline in the United Kingdom's share of the volume of world trade in manufactures, has had on employment and output in the British shipping and civil aviation industries.
§ Mr. SproatIt is not possible to estimate the effect on the shipping and civil aviation industries of the two factors mentioned. The earnings of the United Kingdom shipping industry from carrying United Kingdom imports and exports are not directly related to the level of United Kingdom output and world trade in manufactures, as the share of trade carried by the United Kingdom shipping industry can also change. The United Kingdom industry earns a considerable proportion of its revenue from carrying goods between foreign countries and from chartering; and this income is not dependent on the United Kingdom share of world trade. Major factors effecting earnings of the United Kingdom shipping industry are world trade conditions, particularly in the tanker markets; and the competitiveness of the industry. Similarly, a number of factors have affected both employment and output in the United Kingdom civil aviation industry. The fall in the rate of growth of the United Kingdom airlines is comparable with that of other international airlines, reflecting the impact of world oil prices, and international economic conditions. Recent and planned reductions in346W
The review will consult and take into account the views of the Trade Unions representing MSC staff.A copy of the study plan of the scrutiny will be placed in the Library of the House before the end of the year. Those wishing to express views to the scrutiny team should send them to Mr. B. D. Winkett, Manpower Services Commission, 168 Regent Street, London W1.