HC Deb 21 July 1959 vol 609 cc1069-70
59. Mr. Hamilton

asked the President of the Board of Trade what further representations he has received from paper and board manufacturers concerning the possibility of the formation of the little Free Trade Area; whether he has yet concluded his consideration of the report by officials at last month's Stockholm meeting; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Vaughan-Morgan

My right hon. Friend has received a number of further representations from individual firms but reactions from industry generally have been favourable. The report by officials is at present being discussed by Ministers of the seven countries in Stockholm, and a statement on the outcome of these discussions will be made in due course.

Mr. Hamilton

Is the Minister of State aware that there is a very special Scottish concern in the paper industry? Since the Secretary of State for Scotland has refused to meet a deputation from Scotland, will the hon. Gentleman and his right hon. Friend undertake to meet that deputation?

Mr. Vaughan-Morgan

My right hon. Friend has in fact already received a deputation from the United Kingdom Paper and Board Makers' Association.