§ 42. Mr. Hoyleasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if, following his visit to Israel and his discussions there, he will ensure the lifting of restrictions on the sale of North sea oil to Israel and reconsider the policy of continuing the authentication of negative certificate of origin as required by those companies complying with the Arab trade boycott.
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§ Mr. LuceMy right hon. and learned Friend made it clear during his visit to Israel that we have no plans to revise our guidance to companies exporting North sea crude oil. He also reiterated our opposition to the Arab boycott. Our policy is to encourage trade with both Israel and the Arab states, and I am glad to note that our trade with Israel is increasing. The long-standing procedures of Foreign and Commonwealth Office authentication of signatures on certificates of origin does not imply approval of the contents of the documents in question.