HC Deb 04 February 1982 vol 17 cc201-2W
Mr. Teddy Taylor

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he has any statistics available that could identify the amount of profits on foreign investments that are retained abroad for further investment; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Ridley

The available information shows the amount of profits on foreign investments which are retained abroad for direct reinvestment by United Kingdom companies other than oil companies. The figures are published in the articles on the United Kingdom balance of payments which appear in the March, June, September and December issues ofEconomic Trends. Table 9 of the December 1981 issue, available in the House Library, contains the latest information.

Mr. Teddy Taylor

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will consider taking steps to place restrictions on the movement of private funds by institutions such as pension funds and insurance companies into fixed interest portfolio investment abroad; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Brittan

I shall let my hon. Friend have a reply as soon as possible.