§ Mr. FaberTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs when he proposes to implement his Department's new export initiative based on the recommendations of the Export Forum. [34720]
§ Mr. FatchettThis Department and the Department of Trade and Industry will shortly make an announcement of a new package of measures to help smaller exporters.
§ Mr. FaberTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how he plans to ensure that there is an improved service for potential exporters from his Department. [34721]
§ Mr. FatchettMeeting the needs of potential exporters effectively is key to our commercial work. Together with the Department of Trade and Industry, we are introducing a new Sales Lead Service, to better match sales leads gathered by posts with potential British suppliers. We are also improving and increasing the training of both UK-based and locally engaged staff at all levels. Nearly 40 Foreign Office staff are now studying for the Professionalism in Trade qualification, run in conjunction with the Institute of Export.