European Free Trade Area

HC Deb 13 May 1958 vol 588 c199

22. Mr. H. Hynd

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what progress he has to report in the negotiations for the establishment of a European Free Trade Area.

The Paymaster-General (Mr. Reginald Maudling)

We are awaiting the document which the six countries of the European Economic Community are preparing on the basis of French proposals. In the meantime useful work is proceeding on a number of important details.

Mr. Hynd

Is not time an important factor in this matter? Since the common market began to operate at the beginning of this year and the tariff reductions will begin from 1st January next, are the Government pursuing these negotiations with a sufficient sense of urgency?

Mr. Maudling

There is no doubt about the sense of urgency on behalf of the British Government. I entirely share the hon. Gentleman's views on the urgency of the matter.