HC Deb 13 July 1955 vol 543 cc1916-7
22. Mr. H. Hynd

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the Agreement concerning relations between the United Kingdom and the European Coal and Steel Community has yet been ratified by the six States members of the community; and what is being done to enable this country to play its full part under the Agreement when it comes into force.

Lord John Hope

The answer to the first part of the Question is "No, Sir," although I am informed that the constitutional processes towards ratification in these countries are for the most part well advanced.

The answer to the second part of the Question is that, by ratifying the Agreement, Her Majesty's Government have enabled this country to play its full part under the Agreement when it comes into force.

Mr. Hynd

That does not sound very encouraging. Have the Government got all their machinery ready to take practical advantage of this Agreement when it is signed?

Lord John Hope

I have answered the hon. Member's Question, and I think that my substantive answer covers his supplementary question, too.