Written question asked by Keith Simpson (Conservative) on Wednesday, 14 November 2007, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 19 November 2007. It was answered by Kim Howells (Labour) on Wednesday, 21 November 2007 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Burma: Sanctions

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether it is Government policy to support further EU action against the Burmese regime by imposing EU sanctions in the oil and gas sectors; and when he last discussed the subject with his French counterpart.

Answer: EU partners are in general agreement that any new measures should be targeted towards sources of revenue for the regime. The UK would, therefore, be prepared to consider additional measures that would include the oil and gas sector. Whether these new measures are brought against the Burmese regime depends on the regime's willingness to allow a real political transition to begin.My right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary last discussed the subject with his French counterpart at the EU General Affairs and External Relations Council, which took place on 15 October. Since then Foreign and Commonwealth Office officials have been in regular contact with their French counterparts on this issue.

Secondary information