Iraq (Reconstruction Contracts)

Part of Oral Answers to Questions — Trade and Industry – in the House of Commons am 11:30 am ar 7 Ebrill 2005.

Danfonwch hysbysiad imi am ddadleuon fel hyn

Photo of Patricia Hewitt Patricia Hewitt Secretary of State, Department of Trade and Industry 11:30, 7 Ebrill 2005

We have been supporting British companies and helping British companies to work with Iraqi companies since the end of the conflict. Although I cannot give the hon. Gentleman detailed information about the Jordan trade fair, perhaps I can write to him this afternoon. In 2003, we set up a business facility in Baghdad. We are working with the chamber of commerce, and we have helped a number of British firms in their successful efforts to obtain contracts to help with the reconstruction process. A number of British companies and their trade associations have thanked my officials and ministerial colleagues for our support. I hope that all hon. Members welcome the creation of a democratic Iraqi Government and the fact that the reconstruction process, difficult though it is, is well under way. The British Government and British companies will continue to support the reconstruction process.