§ 14. Mrs. McKennaTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he has taken to ensure that Scottish companies continue to receive the full range of export promotion services. [109624]
§ Mr. WilsonWe work very closely with the Scottish Executive to ensure that Scottish companies are aware of the full range of UK wide support available from the Government as well as the support, tailored to the specific needs of Scottish business, from Scottish Trade International
Last week I was in the Far East. This was part of my cabinet committee responsibilities but I was also spending time promoting Scottish companies and Scottish goods and services. Two weeks ago I led an 18 strong trade mission to Egypt organised by Scottish Trade International. Every week I am speaking to Scottish companies about how we can help them increase their exporting effort.
I am very pleased that Scottish companies are continuing to increase their competitiveness in the international market place. Recent figures showed that Scottish manufactured exports had increased by 7.8 per cent. in real terms during the third quarter of 1999.