Oral Answers to Questions — South America
Mr Norman Lamont (Kingston upon Thames)
asked the Prime Minister whether he plans to seek to visit any South American country.
Mr Norman Lamont (Kingston upon Thames)
Does my right hon. Friend not agree that the countries of South America, in terms of both needs and opportunities, are of increasing importance politically and economically? Does he not further agree that, although in some South American countries per capita incomes are among the lowest in the world, South America has had only a small proportion of British aid? Will he take steps to ensure that the growing importance of South American countries is fully reflected in our trade and aid policies?
Mr Edward Heath (Bexley)
I agree with much of what my hon. Friend has said about the importance of South America to us. Exports to South America have more than doubled since 1967. In 1972 they were 25 per cent. higher than in 1970. I am quite prepared to examine the point that my hon. Friend has made. As for trade affairs, our largest trade promotion in 1974 will be in South America—in Sao Paulo.