Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, what steps diplomatic staff based at the British Embassy in Tehran are taking to increase trade between Iran and the UK.

I have been asked to reply on behalf of the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills.

We want to help British businesses take advantage of the opportunities that economic re-engagement with Iran will bring. UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) are engaging with UK businesses to provide support and assistance to help ensure they benefit from opportunities as they arise. UKTI now have a presence in the British Embassy in Tehran.

During his visit to Tehran in October, my noble Friend the Minister for Trade and Investment, Lord Maude, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with his Iranian counterpart that sets the direction for our future economic and business relationship.

There is a desire on both sides to build a long-term bilateral relationship based on partnership, where trade and investment is a key pillar.