§ John MannTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the UK's relationship with India. [138202]
§ Mr. Mike O'BrienBilateral relations have steadily strengthened over recent years. Our relationship with the Indian government is now closer than it has been for a long time across a broad range of policy areas. UK development assistance will increase to £250 million in 2004–05. We are encouraging closer education links between the UK and India, including through a substantial British Council programme. And there has been a marked increase in bilateral trade to 5 billion in 2001. The large British community of Indian origin plays a very important part in maintaining and developing the UK's relationship with India.