§ Mr. SymsTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when he next plans to meet the Prime Minister of France to discuss trade issues. [104206]
§ Mr. CabornMy right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry would not normally meet the French Prime Minister to discuss trade issues and consequently has no plans to meet him in the future. My right hon. Friend met his opposite number, the French Minister for the Economy, Finance and Industry, at the Anglo-French Summit in London in November 1999 and Trade issues were discussed at this meeting. In addition, I met the French Minister for Trade in October 1999 and we are in touch regarding bilateral meetings as and when the need arises.