HC Deb 15 June 1998 vol 314 c14W
Mr. Ottaway

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what steps he is taking to encourage the restoration of air links to Nigeria. [45622]

Mr. Tony Lloyd

We last held air service talks with the Nigerian authorities in February 1998 and hope that the new Nigerian Administration will take forward the proposals made at those talks as a matter of priority.

Mr. Vaz

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (1) what communication he has had with General Abdulsalam Abubakar; [45650]

(2) if he will make a statement on the installation of the new Head of State of Nigeria;[45649]

(3) what representations he has received concerning relations between the United Kingdom and Nigeria; [45652]

(4) what plans he has to visit Nigeria. [45651]

Mr. Tony Lloyd

General Abdulsalam Alhaji Abubakar was installed as Nigerian Head of State on 9 June. On 12 June we issued a Declaration on behalf of the EU welcoming General Abubakar's call to all Nigerians to join in a process of reconstruction and reconciliation. Nigeria now has an opportunity to move forward in a way which reflects the wish of the Nigerian people in all their diversity including early moves to a democratically elected system of governance. The release of detainees including Chief Abiola will be an important part of that process. We hope that General Abubakar and his team will quickly take the necessary steps to allow Nigeria to resume its rightful place in the international community. The UK is ready to help and respond positively to progress.

We are in close touch with our EU, Commonwealth and other partners. We are still considering our response. We hope that events in Nigeria will allow the UK to re-establish a close relationship based on our historic ties.

Mr. Vaz

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many British companies he estimates are currently active in Nigeria. [45653]

Mr. Tony Lloyd

There are approximately 70 British companies in Nigeria with equity there, but many others that sell products and services.