HC Deb 05 May 1958 vol 587 c841
37. Mr. Rankin

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what progress has been made so far in regard to a simplification of the rules governing trade with Communist countries at the meeting of the Co-ordinating Committee now proceeding in Paris.

Mr. Ian Harvey

The discussions in the Co-ordinating Committee in Paris are continuing, but the outcome of the review is not expected for some time.

Mr. Rankin

Then would the hon. Gentleman instruct our representatives in Paris not to accept any decisions at Cocom which would result in restrictive practices that would do damage to British trade?

Mr. Harvey

Our representatives in Paris are well aware of the interest of British trade and are carrying out their consultations with that in mind.