What representations he has received from the British-Libyan business group concerning actions taken since July 1998 by the Libyan Government against UK firms involved in work in Libya. [55065]

The Secretary of State has received two letters from Mr. Kevin Boyle, chairman of the British-Libyan business group, covering several points on UK Libyan trade. Those have not included specific references to actions taken by the Libyan Government.

What was the Department's understanding about an embargo against British goods and services in relation to the great man-made river project, possibly the biggest engineering project in Africa? Will my hon. Friend discuss with Kevin Boyle the problem surrounding visas, which is a great difficulty for British business men in what is a potentially lucrative, once British, market?

As my hon. Friend is well aware, those issues do not take place within a vacuum. I am well aware of the potential and the past trade with Libya. If the other issues could be resolved, as I am sure my hon. Friend wishes, and I and the Government wish, it would be extremely healthy and positive for our relations with Libya, including our commercial relations.

I am not aware of an embargo on British contracts in connection with the great man-made river. The Department receives many inquiries from British firms about it and we give them balanced advice. Problems with visas should not arise for legitimate business people and, if they do, I would be pleased to discuss them further. I shall ask my officials to speak to Mr. Boyle on those matters.