A new report which for the first time spells out full details of every single major Indian transport project which British companies can invest has been launched by Trade and Investment Minister Lord Digby Jones in New Delhi, India today.

The Minister launched the report in front of some 100 Indian companies involved in the Indian transport construction sector including DS Group, Larsen and Toubro, Gammon India Ltd and Punj Lloyd. UK companies present included Bombardier, Arup and Benoy. The report not only identifies the projects but also the barriers and incentives to win contracts.

Lord Digby Jones said: "This report shows incredible detail. It highlights that 116 airport x-ray baggage inspection systems are to be purchased by 2008 and that there are currently plans to upgrade 16 train stations from New Delhi to Lucknow.

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"But more importantly it highlights the route for entry. For example, 100 per cent FDI is permissible for the development of all greenfield and brownfield airports and also that the entire road and highways network has been declared an industry allowed to commercially borrow."

Some of the key findings of the UK Trade and Investment report show that £4.5bn of Government money is earmarked to upgrade 25 airports, India has the largest road network in the world aggregating 3.3 million km and £27bn of Government money is earmarked for roads and highways development and there are plans to implement 276 port projects valued at £6.3bn.

Lord Digby Jones added: "UK companies must often partner with Indian companies to win contracts. This is why I am launching this report at a seminar where both UK and Indian companies can talk about potential partnerships.

The Minister also used the opportunity to highlight British expertise in Public Private Partnerships which the Indian Government is interested in to help quickly build up the nation's infrastructure.

The minister concluded that the UK is India's "natural partner of choice" for infrastructure investment.

(GK)