Written question asked by Lord Harper (Conservative) on Monday, 20 October 2008, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 23 October 2008. It was answered by Gordon Brown (Labour) on Thursday, 23 October 2008 on behalf of the Prime Minister.

EU Trade

Question: To ask the Prime Minister what consideration he gave to the effect on the Doha world trade talks of the recall of the British Commissioner holding the post of EU Trade Commissioner.

Answer: The recent G8 communiqué set out our joint desire to restart the trade talks as quickly as possible. The UK will continue to play a central role within the EU and work with other key players to ensure a successful completion of the Doha round. My right hon. and noble Friend Baroness Ashton of Upholland's appointment as Trade Commissioner was approved by the European Parliament on 22 October 2008 by an overwhelming majority of 538 in favour to 40 against.

Secondary information