§ 31. Sir Teddy TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps he is taking to improve trade with Iran. [139563]
§ Mr. CabornThe Government are committed to strengthening the commercial relationship with Iran to our mutual benefit. TradePartnersUK are currently running an extensive programme of exhibitions, seminars and outward trade missions to Iran. We are also funding visits by UK experts, to identify areas where UK companies can assist Iran develop her economy. The sectors where opportunities have already been identified include; hydrocarbons, mining, power generation, automotive, water and waste management, and agriculture including the packaging industry. In addition my officials, both in the UK and in Tehran, continue to provide information and advice to allow companies, especially small and medium-sized enterprises, to make informed decisions about exporting to this important market—indeed we have just strengthened the commercial team in Tehran in recognition of the improved relations between Britain and Iran.
I visited Iran in October to support the 48 UK companies that exhibited at the Tehran International Trade Fair. During my visit, I was pleased to announce that the Export Credits Guarantee Department will now provide medium term cover to help UK exporters win business in Iran. My visit, the first by a UK Minister for Trade in 738W 20 years, underlines this Government's commitment to building on the strong commercial relationship that goes back many years.