§ Mrs. EwingTo ask the President of the Board of Trade if she will make a statement on the outcome of the recent EU Taiwan market access negotiations. [33882]
§ Mrs. RocheThe 12th round of market access negotiations between the European Union and Taiwan relating to Taiwan's accession to the World Trade Organisation was held between 24–26 February in Taipei. The European Commission will formally report back on the talks to Member States in Brussels on 13 March. Our understanding from initial reports is that good progress was reached in a wide range of areas but that agreement has still to be reached on a number of issues, notably on Taiwan's taxation of alcoholic spirits and in particular of Scotch Whisky where the UK has a strong interest. UK officials will continue to keep in close contact with the European Commission on this issue and to work hard towards a mutually acceptable solution.