Monday, November 30, 1998 Published at 06:55 GMT
Pinochet release talks continue
The meeting is likely to focus on damage to relations
By Diplomatic Correspondent David Loyn
Chile's Foreign Minister Jose Miguel Insulza is meeting the UK Defence Secretary George Robertson in the latest of a series of attempts to persuade the UK Government to allow General Pinochet to return home.
Chile's interest in buying two former Royal Navy frigates has been questioned and a goodwill visit by a British warship to the South American country has already been cancelled.
Chile's reported offer to try General Pinochet in his own country for crimes allegedly committed during his 1973 to 1990 period as head of state has been treated with widespread disbelief.
Mr Straw, who refuses to see the Chilean foreign minister, should reach a decision on the former dictator's case in the first two weeks of December.
But in recent years sales have only been worth approximately £1m annually.
The reality of the situation is that Chile will suffer more from a break in economic relations than the UK.
It is not known if Mr Insulza will attempt to meet with any other ministers during his visit.
General Pinochet remains under arrest in a London hospital pending the outcome of the extradition saga.