Written question asked by Baroness Kinnock of Holyhead (Labour), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Howell of Guildford (Conservative) on Tuesday, 22 March 2011.

Burma

Question: To ask Her Majesty’s Government what steps they have taken to persuade European Union member states to implement a ban on European Union companies investing in Burma.

Answer: The Government do not encourage trade and investment in Burma. Our international partners are well aware of our concerns over investing in a country with an appalling human rights record where money goes directly into the pockets of the regime. EU sanctions include a ban on imports, exports and investments in the Burmese timber, gems and precious metals sector, which are key sources of revenue for the military regime. My right honourable friends the Foreign Secretary and the Minister for Europe and senior UK officials have all held talks with EU counterparts to ensure that sanctions are rolled over in April.

Secondary information