asked the Secretary of State for Trade if he will now take steps to limit the imports of Japanese cars to the same total as British car imports to Japan.

No. To do so would not only be in breach of our international obligations but would also create a serious risk of retaliation against such major British exports to Japan as Scotch whisky, agricultural equipment, aero-engines, wool cloth and pharmaceuticals. I am, however, ready to consider any evidence of unfair trading practices that may be put to me.