Former MP for Birkenhead
I have received a number of representations calling for further import controls and have taken action in certain cases. I take the view that a more general policy of import controls would lead to retaliatory action against our exports because the majority of our major trading partners have the same problems of high unemployment as we have and would, therefore, be unlikely to acquiesce in...
I take the view that in certain cases—as we have done with Japan—it is possible to negotiate voluntary restraint arrangements, but more general restraint would provoke emulation and retaliation. It may be true that this is an easy and attractive market. That is a very good reason why British industry should make itself competitive to supply it.
We shall certainly resist generalised import controls but, as I have made clear on a number of occasions—most recently at the OECD ministerial council—unless we can relaunch world trade on to a course of a higher rate of expansion, there will, I am afraid, be further deterioration in protectionist directions.
It is certainly true that consumers have a considerable interest in avoiding import controls. On the other hand, if the present levels of unemployment in the developed world and elsewhere continue, I have no doubt that in the end Governments will increasingly put the interests of their producers first and introduce further import controls.
My hon. Friend has a later Question on that subject. We have already taken some action in respect of special steels. If he is assuming that his Question will not be reached, may I say to him now that, if he has information which we ought to consider, we shall certainly be prepared to look at it.
No date is fixed.
We thought that it was right to permit British Airways to purchase the 19 737s. As to any British contribution to the B10 and the association of British Airways with any such arrangement, I must make it clear that the Government have no power to require British Airways to purchase aircraft, and one would expect, therefore, that the independence of British Airways in this respect would...
I am certainly very concerned about delays in passing passengers through Heathrow Airport. It is a serious matter. We are looking into it. There are many aspects to it, including the number of immigration officers. Nevertheless, it presents great difficulties. I know that the British Airports Authority is very much concerned about it and is doing what it can.
