asked the President of the Board of Trade by what method trade commissioners, commercial ministers and equivalent appointments analyse and report to his department on all cases of failure on the part of British industry either to quote for, or to secure orders for, substantial capital plant and machinery requirements notified by overseas Governments or private businesses.

In so far as the information is obtainable, trade commissioners and commercial diplomatic officers report on these matters whenever they consider it necessary or are requested to do so.

Does not my hon. Friend agree that such an analysis should be a routine matter? If we are to find out why we are not exporting to countries, surely we ought to have the information to see whether British industrialists are doing all they can to earn exports?

In some cases the reasons why British industry could not get a particular order are obvious, but, wherever it appears on representation that inquiries are requisite, they are made and reports are considered.

If statistics of this nature are provided, could we also have statistics about the delays on the docks, which are frustrating very vital exports from this country?

I cannot see that that supplementary question arises out of the Question on the Order Paper.