HL Deb 24 November 1983 vol 445 cc429-30WA
Viscount Montgomery of Alamein

asked Her Majesty's Government:

When they propose to end the anomaly, only introduced in September this year, by which books from Argentina may be imported direct by individuals, universities or institutions, but not by British domestic publishers or booksellers; and

Whether they appreciate that the inability of British booksellers to import books direct from Argentina penalises domestic wholesalers and retailers in favour of Argentine booksellers and publishers with whom British clients can deal direct.

The Minister of State, Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Lord Belstead)

Books not for resale are specially exempted in the interest of free communication; but the general embargo on the importation of Argentine goods, including books not covered by the special exemption, must await reciprocal restoration of trade relations.