§ Mrs. GillanTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what contacts(a) he and (b) his officials had with the Hinduja family and their business associates during his visits to India in March and December 1999. [148509]
§ Ms Beverley Hughes[holding answer 2 February 2001]: My right hon. Friend's visits to India in March and December 1999 promoted Indo-British bilateral relations, business and trade co-operation, and the sharing of experience on environment and urban issues. On both visits my right hon. Friend met the Indian Prime Minister, other Indian Ministers and a number of British and Indian business men and women. This included a courtesy meeting between my right hon. Friend, accompanied by officials, and Messers. G. P. and S. P. Hinduja in Mumbai in March 1999.