HC Deb 09 March 1998 vol 308 cc72-3W
Mr. Mullin

To ask the President of the Board of Trade what account she will take of human rights issues during her preparation for the Business Event which she is hosting at the ASEM II meeting in April; and if she will make a statement. [31022]

Mrs. Beckett

The 1998 Asia Europe Business Forum is primarily a mechanism to promote business to business contacts between ASEM member countries. The agenda for the ASEM Summit is still under discussion. It is expected to be wide-ranging and productive and to touch upon human rights issues.

Mr. Mullin

To ask the President of the Board of Trade if she plans to consult with relevant non-government organisations in preparation for the Business Event she is hosting at the ASEM II meeting in April. [31021]

Mrs. Beckett

The 1998 Asia Europe Business Forum is primarily a mechanism to promote business to business contacts between ASEM member countries. Its agenda has been drawn up in consultation with our ASEM partners. I currently have no plans to consult with non-government organisations.