§ Mr. MullinTo ask the President of the Board of Trade when he intends to review the ban on ECGD cover for trade with Vietnam; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. NeedhamThere is no ban on ECGD cover for Vietnam. The availability of such cover for any market is dependent upon the ECGDs assessment of the risks and payment performance.
In the case of Vietnam, the ECGD will consider United Kingdom investments. However, cover for medium and long term trade credits was withdrawn following defaults on payment. Unfortunately these remain unremedied, but the ECGD will continue to watch developments closely with a view to resuming cover when conditions are sufficiently improved.