§ 3. Sir R. Boothbyasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer the policy of Her Majesty's Government in respect of the proposal for the gradual establishment of a common market by six European countries; and whether he will enter into discussions about this project with the Governments of the countries concerned.
§ Mr. H. MacmillanHer Majesty's Government are giving very careful consideration to the implications for the United Kingdom of this proposal, and are considering how best to keep in touch with its development.
§ Sir R. BoothbyWhilst thanking my right hon. Friend, may I ask him to bear in mind that it would be very unfortunate if a common market were to be formed in Europe, with great reciprocal advantages to the countries concerned there, and we were completely excluded?
§ Mr. MacmillanYes, Sir. As my hon. Friend knows, this is a very large and difficult question. I think that perhaps the meeting of Commonwealth Prime Ministers will be of advantage to us at the moment because we shall have to consider its implications together with their views.