To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform what the cost was of UK overseas regional trade offices in the last period for which figures are available. (180653)

The English Regional Development Agencies maintain representation overseas for the purpose of attracting inward investment, which in the financial year 2006-07 cost a total of £2.3 million.

Please note overseas trade activity by Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland is a devolved matter.