Oral Answers to Questions

Helen Goodman Excerpts
Tuesday 3rd May 2011

(13 years, 6 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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John Bercow Portrait Mr Speaker
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Question 13: I call David Morris. He is not here.

Helen Goodman Portrait Helen Goodman (Bishop Auckland) (Lab)
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14. What recent progress he has made in strengthening bilateral relations with India; and if he will make a statement.

Jeremy Browne Portrait The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Mr Jeremy Browne)
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There has been significant progress on building the bilateral relationship with India since the Prime Minister’s visit to India in July 2010, with increased co-operation across the full scope of activities.

Helen Goodman Portrait Helen Goodman
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Given the desirability for the UK and India of increasing the trade between the two countries, will the Minister tell the House what progress has been made on the negotiations for an EU trade agreement?

Jeremy Browne Portrait Mr Browne
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I completely share the hon. Lady’s objectives. India is rising in importance, and that is most evident economically. Insufficient progress has been made, but progress is still being made and Britain is at the forefront of trying to conclude the negotiations as soon as possible.