§ Mr. FatchettTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will outline(a) his Department's position in relation to trade with Burma and (b) that of other EU members; and if he will make a statement. [4774]
§ Mr. HanleyThere is no obstacle to United kingdom firms exploring business in Burma not covered by the European Union arms embargo. I set out to the House in some detail on July 19 the Government's policy towards Burma, including trade,Official Report, columns 1638–45.
We regularly discuss policy towards Burma with our EU partners, but do not have details of their policy on trade.
457W
§ Mr. FatchettTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations his Department has received regarding the use of forced labour in Burma; and if he will make a statement. [4776]
§ Mr. HanleyWe have received representations about human rights abuses in Burma, including the use of forced labour, from a wide variety of sources including Church groups, non-governmental organisations and members of the public.
Officials have consistently expressed our concern about the use of forced labour in Burma, both in international forums and directly to the ruling military regime, the State Law and Order Restoration Council. We will continue to do so.
§ Mr. FatchettTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assistance his Department has provided in the last three years to United Kingdom companies interested in trade with Burma, or in operating in Burma; what is the cost of this assistance; and if he will make a statement. [4775]
§ Mr. HanleyI refer the hon. Member to the answer given by my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade today.