§ Mr. David NicholsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what measures he is taking to encourage British exports to Iran.
§ Mr. LilleyMy Department, in conjunction with the Committee for Middle East Trade provides advice and information to British exporters to Iran. In order to improve our share of an expanding market, we are, with the assistance of the British Embassy in Tehran, attempting to identify new export opportunities. We are also improving our knowledge of market conditions for the benefit of companies wishing to break into the market. The fairs and promotions branch of my Department has offered financial support to companies wishing to participate in the Iran medical fair to be held in June and it is about to make an offer in respect of the Tehran international fair in October.
§ Mr. David NicholsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what were the totals, by value, of United Kingdom exports to Iran for each quarter of 1988, 1989 and 1990.
§ Mr. LilleyThe value of United Kingdom exports to Iran for 1988, 1989 and 1990 was as follows:
£ million 1988 1989 1990 January to March 69.1 68.4 71.6 April to June 62.2 53.3 84.6 July to September 63.3 56.9 107.1 October to December 52.5 78.6 121.4
§ Mr. David NicholsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what representations he has received on Export Credits Guarantee Department cover for trade with Iran; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. LilleyI am aware of the interest being shown by British exporters in business with Iran. Cover is available from the ECGD for exports on credit terms of up to 360 days where payments are secured by irrevocable letters of credit.
The resumption of cover for exports on medium term credit will need to take account of a number of factors including commercial considerations and conditions in the region generally. Some progress would also need to be made on the settlement of the debts outstanding to the United Kingdom on trade which took place prior to the Islamic revolution.