Like many other countries the UK is facing major economic problems as a result of the collapse of the banking system -- which began in America.  Unemployment is rising sharply, though fortunately we have a good social welfare system which means that no one starves.  The government has taken control of several private banks and is trying to pump liquidity into them to try to persuade the banks to start lending again.  It is too early to say whether this is working or not.

. I have visited Vietnam at least ten times over the last 35 years and for up to a month at a time. I have travelled extensively, by bus, train, motor vehicle from the Mekong Delta to Lang Son -- and also in the central highlands (my wife's family come from Kontum).

British oil and insurance companies have big interests in Vietnam.  The British Council, based in Hanoi, also runs courses in English and other subjects to improve commercial and cultural relations with the UK.  Personally, I hoping someone will start importing Vietnam's excellent coffee -- at the moment we have to wait for a relative or friend who is visiting Vietnam to bring us back a big supply.