§ Mr. RosindellTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what the Government's policy is on the expansion of Mercosur. [184190]
§ Mr. Mike O'BrienMercosur, the Common Market of the South, was created by Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay in March 1991. In 1996 association agreements were signed with Bolivia and Chile establishing free trade areas with these countries; Mexico and Venezuela have recently expressed interest in joining the group. Expansion of Mercosur would be514W a decision for the full members. The UK favours the process of deeper regional integration since we believe this creates greater possibilities for economic growth and poverty reduction.