HC Deb 09 January 1985 vol 70 c482W
Mr. Ashdown

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many incidents he is aware of apart from the visit of Mr. Jack Lacey to Plasma Technology, where United States Government officials have visited companies within the United Kingdom on official business without first informing, and seeking the agreement of, the United Kingdom Government.

Mr. Hayhoe

Her Majesty's Customs and Excise have been generally aware that the United States Customs attaches based at the American embassy in London make visits to companies within the United Kingdom from time to time. The United States authorities are, however, now aware of Her Majesty Government's view that United States Customs attaches should obtain the agreement of Her Majesty's Customs and Excise before visiting companies in the United Kingdom about possible breaches of United States law.

Mr. Ashdown

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will list the number of visits made by officials from (a) the United States Department of Commerce. and (b) the United States Customs of which he has beer, advised or which have been requested by the United States since the beginning of 1983.

Mr. Hayhoe

  1. (a) Six.
  2. (b) None.