HC Deb 16 July 1986 vol 101 cc534-5W
43. Mr. Fisher

the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when he next intends to meet the Confederation of British Industry to discuss the trade deficit in manufactured goods.

Mr. Butcher

My right hon. Friend meets the CBI regularly at the National Economic Development Council and on other occasions. At present he has no plans for a separate meeting on this subject.

50. Mr. Fatchett

the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will indicate the nature and size of the current deficit in the balance of trade in manufactured goods and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Butcher

In the three months ended May 1986 there was a deficit of £1 billion.