§ Mr. CousinsTo ask the Prime Minister whether his discussions with the Prime Minister of the Czech Republic included discussions of(a) the sale of Gripen jets to the Czech Air Force and (b) the offset arrangements that formed part of the bid of Gripen International. [51487]
§ The Prime MinisterYes, as my official spokesman has already made clear, I did make representations regarding the Czech decision to buy supersonic aircraft. As with previous Administrations, backing British business abroad is an important part of my job.
As had also been made clear, I visited Prague primarily to discuss issues such as EU enlargement and to continue our efforts to develop good relations with an important NATO ally.