HC Deb 27 February 1986 vol 92 c623W
Mr. Ashdown

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps he has taken to investigate the impact on United Kingdom high technology exports of the attempted imposition of United States export regulations by the United States subsidiary companies.

Mr. Pattie

The United Kingdom remains firmly opposed to extraterritorial United States re-export controls and to the implied claim of the United States to jurisdiction in the United Kingdom. It is not possible to measure the impact of the imposition of such controls by United States subsidiaries. Companies with difficulties should approach the Department for advice.

Mr. Ashdown

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps he has taken to investigate the attempts by United States Government officials to audit and examine the books of United Kingdom computer and electronics companies; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Pattie

The Government are considering a request from the United States authorities for agreement to United States officials visiting a number of United Kingdom companies in connection with United States distribution licence regulations introduced last year. The United States authorities recognise that no such visits may take place without prior approval.