§ 41. Mr. Chapmanasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on Britain's trade with the Soviet Union.
§ Mr. Alan ClarkThis is the first year of the new Soviet five-year plan which puts great emphasis on the refurbishment of industry and on productivity, quality and the efficient use of energy. British firms have much to offer in these areas and I hope that they will take advantage of this. I initialled the long-term programme for economic and industrial co-operation with the Soviet Deputy Foreign Trade Minister Mr. Manzhulo, on 6 February, and the opportunities were listed therein. A copy of the programme is in the Library.