HC Deb 19 July 1989 vol 157 cc224-5W
69. Dr. Michael Clark

To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what representations he has received recently concerning the future of the Export Credits Guarantee Department.

Mr. Alan Clark

A report on the future status of ECGD, commissioned by the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, was submitted to Ministers in May 1989. The report takes account of evidence provided to Mr. Kemp, its author, by a wide range of interested parties including exporters, banks and the insurance industry. In order to assist those same parties to contribute to the consideration of the report itself, Ministers decided that the report should be published. At the same time we established an inter-Departmental working group of officials, chaired by ECGD's chief executive to provide advice on the status options identified in the report. Comments have already been submitted to the working group by interested outside parties.