That the draft order laid before the House on 3 February be approved.

Relevant document: 8th Report from the Joint Committee on Statutory Instruments, considered in Grand Committee on 1 March.

My Lords, I have two questions concerning the order. First, how soon will the asymmetrical trade preferences come into force? Secondly, what will be the length of the transitional period for the free trade area? I raise these points because the Bosnians need to have tangible benefits as they move towards EU membership.

My Lords, I regret that the noble Lord was obviously not able to be present in the Moses Room when we debated this issue. It is the Government’s intention to encourage Bosnia-Herzegovina, and this treaty seeks to do so. I do not have the detailed information to hand on the points that he made, but I will certainly make the requisite inquiries and write to him.