HC Deb 03 December 1990 vol 182 cc35-6W
21. Mr. Gwilym Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what matters were discussed on his recent visit to Japan and Korea.

Mr. David Hunt

I led an inward investment mission to Japan from 13 to 21 November accompanied by the chairman of the Welsh Development Agency.

During my visit I was delighted to be able to announce major new projects in Wales by Yuasa Battery and Gooding Sanken. I also had high-level discussions with other major Japanese companies and I am confident that further investment by Japanese companies will follow and enhance the excellent relationship between Wales and Japan.

I had meetings with senior representatives of the Japanese Government. I also addressed a seminar in Hiroshima organised by the Invest in Britain Bureau.

While in Tokyo I acted as host for a number of senior Japanese business people attending the final performance of the Welsh National Opera. I attended a meeting of the business leaders forum hosted by HRH the Prince of Wales.

I also visited the Oita prefecture of Japan where I discussed ways of developing the close links between Wales and Oita with Governor Hiramatsu.

I very much regret that parliamentary business obliged me to return before conducting my planned engagements in Korea.