§ Mr. Peter Bruinvelsasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will publish in the Official Report a table showing the volume and value of British exports to and imports from India and Pakistan over the past five years; what Export Credits Guarantee Department cover is available to British firms selling goods to India and Pakistan; and if he will make a statement on his policy towards trade with both India and Pakistan.
§ Mr. Kenneth BakerValues of exports to and imports from India and Pakistan over the past five years are as follows. Export statistics by volume are not available.
United Kingdom Trade with Pakistan and India £ million 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 India United Kingdom exports 423 429 639 805 805 United Kingdom imports 366 316 294 379 367 Pakistan United Kingdom exports 140 140 149 199 192 United Kingdom imports 68 58 63 82 80 India and Pakistan are valued trading partners of the United Kingdom. My Department will continue to make 709W available a wide range of services and support through the British Overseas Trade Board to British companies exporting to India and Pakistan. This includes an annual subvention to the British and South Asian Trade Association (BASATA). The full range of ECGD facilities is available for both India and Pakistan, though payment must be secured by an irrevocable letter of credit for Pakistan. Medium and long-term cover is available in both markets within a total commitments limit.