§ Mr. StreeterTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development if she will make a statement on her Department's policy towards the World Trade Organisation discussions in Seattle. [96222]
§ Clare ShortThe WTO Ministerial meeting in Seattle, 30 November to 3 December, will consider the scope, modalities and structure of a new round of multilateral trade negotiations. I have called for the next WTO round to be a "development round", with a comprehensive agenda which offers all countries the chance to make solid and substantial gains. A comprehensive Round would offer important development opportunities, through increased market access and improved rules. My Department has been working closely with the Department of Trade and Industry and other Departments to give a clear development focus to the EU position in advance of Seattle, and is working hard to win support for a wide ranging round.