EU COMMON POSITION ON CUBA

Early day motion 1959, tabled 30 March 2006 by Ian Gibson (Labour). Signed by 202 members.

That this House recognises efforts by the Government to cement positive relations with Cuba; identifies the 48 per cent. decrease in United Kingdom exports to Cuba since 2000 as unwelcome and in direct contrast to increased trade between Cuba and other EU partners; notes the continued aggressive lobbying of EU member states by the US Commission for Assistance to a Free Cuba which promotes a tightening of extra territorial elements of the illegal blockade which affect EU-Cuba relations; acknowledges that despite differences between the two countries, cultural, scientific, sporting and trade links should be protected and built upon; and calls on the United Kingdom Government to maintain and develop its independent approach of positive engagement towards Cuba when the EU common position on Cuba is reviewed in June.

Signatures by party: Labour 145, Liberal Democrat 36, Conservative 10, Scottish National Party 4, Plaid Cymru 3, Social Democratic and Labour Party 2, Independent 1, Respect 1.