Near East Trade

HC Deb 08 March 1995 vol 256 cc244-5W

35. Mr. Rathbone

To ask the President of the Board of Trade what special efforts are being made to encourage trade with near eastern countries.

Mr. Ian Taylor

The countries of the near east include many of the top 80 United Kingdom markets and dedicated desk officers and export promoters have been appointed to cover these. Their efforts have made a significant additional contribution to the encouragement and support of trade with the area. Regular promotional seminars are held, and we support numerous trade missions, as well as participation by United Kingdom firms in trade fairs and exhibitions.

As my hon. Friend knows, my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister, accompanied by my right hon. Friend the Minister for Trade will be visiting the area shortly accompanied by a team of senior business men.