§ Mr. HuttonTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what assistance is provided by his Department for exporters looking to open up markets in the middle east.
§ Mr. NeedhamThe Government's overseas trade services are available for most middle east markets and many exporters use them. This year the DTI is supporting 26 trade missions and a United Kingdom presence at 24 trade fairs in the area. It is particularly encouraging that a substantial number of participating companies are new exporters to the region. Export Credits Guarantee Department support is also available for credit-worthy middle east markets. We also see considerable scope in these markets, which last year took United Kingdom exports of £7 billion, for using some of the 100 secondees my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade plans to recruit from industry to assist with the promotion of United Kingdom exports.