HC Deb 21 November 1984 vol 68 cc164-5W
21. Mr. Fisher

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what is the balance of trade in manufactures for the first nine months of 1984.

Mr. Norman Lamont

There was a deficit of £3.3 billion.

32. Mr. Kirkwood

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry whether he is satisfied with the existing controls on the export of United Kingdom manufactured goods which could be used for the purpose of civil repression or torture by foreign Governments or other organisations.

Mr. Channon

Existing controls appear to be operating effectively. I have been informed that shortly after the introduction of export controls on leg irons in February 1984, the firm which used to manufacture them in this country ceased to do so. If the hon. Member has any proof that controls are being evaded I shall be glad to consider it.

33. Mr. Teddy Taylor

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what percentage of the European Economic Community (original Six) market for manufactures was secured by British firms in the most recent annual period for which figures are available; and what was the comparable figure for 1972.

Mr. Channon

In 1983, the United Kingdom accounted for 7 per cent, of the imports of manufactures by the original six members of the European Community. The comparable figure for 1972 was 6.1 per cent.