§ Mr. Parryasked the Minister for Trade what steps have been taken to increase trade between the United Kingdom and the People's Republic of China over the past three years; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter Rees[pursuant to the reply 24 January 1983, c. 265.]: I visited China in December 1981 for talks aimed at promoting trade between Britain and China. Further trade talks have taken place during subsequent Ministerial visits to China, including the Prime Minister's visit in September 1982 and the visit of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Industry in January 1983. The Government have also received several delegations from China. The Government played a major role in the negotiations leading to the signature last November of a £100 million defence contract with British manufacturers. China's economic expansion plans announced last autumn should provide significant further export opportunities. The full range of Government export services, including those of the Sino-British trade council is available to assist British companies to sell to China.