HC Deb 24 January 1996 vol 270 cc257-8W
Mr. Sheerman

To ask the President of the Board of Trade if he will list, in the order of their introduction, all current initiatives which give information and assistance to companies which wish to export to the United States. [10882]

Mr. Oppenheim

Overseas trade services, administered jointly by my Department and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, provide a package of support measures to help exporters to all markets including the United States. These include help with market research, finding representatives in the United States, support at trade fairs, outward and inward trade missions and information on export opportunities. A team of export promoters seconded to my Department from UK industry is also available to help exporters.

In addition, my Department's north America now campaign provides additional help for UK companies seeking to do business in the United States. Seminars and clinics are held on a range of topics, both sectoral and cross-sectoral in nature, to alert UK companies to the opportunities in the market and the methods of doing business there. A range of publications is available to exporters and help is offered with finding strategic partners in north America.