§ Mr. LathamTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether he will institute discussions with the Secretary for Commerce of the United States of America to bring about joint action under the general agreement on tariffs and trade to remove the ban by Indonesia on the export of rattan; and if he will make a statement
§ Mr. Maude[holding answer 6 March 1989]: It is for the Community to pursue this issue with Indonesia and if appropriate in the GATT in the light of the impact of the Indonesian action on Community interests. I would hope to have the support of other GATT members, including the United States, for any action initiated in GATT.
§ Mr. LathamTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what action has been taken since 19 December 1988 by his Department to bring about the removal of the ban by Indonesia on the export of rattan; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Maude[holding answer 6 March 1989]: The European Commission, which has competence in external trade matters, discussed this issue with a delegation led by the Indonesian Vice-Minister for Agriculture in Brussels recently. I regret that no progress was made.
Further high-level consultations between the Commission and the Government of Indonesia are expected shortly, and my officials will be monitoring developments closely. The Community has also requested consultations with Indonesia under GATT dispute settlement procedures. The Indonesians have yet to agree a date for the consultations.