To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they will pursue treaties or co-operation agreements with Kyrgyzstan covering (a) double taxation, (b) protection of investment, and (c) culture and education. [HL2559]

The UK already has treaties with the Kyrgyz Republic covering the fields of protection of investment and culture and education. These are covered by my Written Answer to the noble Lord on 2 February 2010 (Official Report, col. WA 33) and both treaties are listed in the corresponding document that was deposited in the Libraries of the Houses.

We are aware of a request from the Kyrgyz Government for a double taxation agreement. Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs is able to conclude only a limited number of these agreements each year and will keep this request in mind as they work through their forward programme.