HL Deb 17 November 2004 vol 666 cc163-4WA
Lord Harrison

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they believe that Russia still offers investment and business opportunities, in the light of the recent withdrawal of loans by Société Générale and ING from a Russian oil company. [HL4799]

Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean

The Government believe that there are good investment and business opportunities for UK companies in Russia but, as with any other market in the world, thorough preparation and a proper risk assessment need to be factored into any commercial decision of this kind.