To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions he has had with the government of Taiwan on its plan to expand its civil nuclear energy programme. (150715)

The UK does not recognise Taiwan as a state or country, nor its authorities as a government.

However, we have strong commercial, educational and cultural links with Taiwan and discussions have taken place between UK Trade and Investment, including an export promoter from London, and the Taiwanese Atomic Energy Council. No commercial prospects were found. We have a good dialogue with the Bureau of Energy on renewable sectors. We have been asked about the prospects for further nuclear development in the UK.