SAN FRANCISCO CONSULATE

Early day motion 195, tabled 15 January 2001 by Derek Wyatt (Labour). Signed by 22 members.

That this House notes that San Francisco and its hinterland in Silicon Valley represents the 10th largest economic area in the world; reflects on its success in initiating venture capital through the pioneering work of Arthur Rock who helped fund Intel and Apple thirty years ago; congratulates the United Kingdom Consulate recently for celebrating its 150th year in the city, making it the oldest on the West Coast; is concerned that EU and Pacific Rim countries are increasing their staff there with special responsibility for the 'knowledge economy'; calls for the FCO/Department of Trade and Industry Departments to make this a priority also for the United Kingdom; recommends that ministers with these responsibilities should visit the area as soon as possible; draws attention to the fact that the Consular General's house has acted as a unique cost effective private networking centre and reception facility non pareil for visiting ministers, industry dignitaries and SMEs; and suggests that the recent agreement to sell the Consular General's house is a mistake we will come to rue.

Signatures by party: Labour 16, Liberal Democrat 3, Conservative 2, UUP 1.