HC Deb 22 February 1960 vol 618 cc110-1

Motion made, and Question proposed, That the Clause stand part of the Bill.

7.30 p.m.

Mr. Mitchison

I suppose that the President of the Board of Trade, who recently delivered his Second Reading speech in Zurich, is now absent in some other foreign capital. That being so, I should like to ask the Minister of State, Board of Trade or the Economic Secretary to the Treasury what the position is in relation to this Clause. The purpose of the Clause is to apply the Act to subsequent agreements with Convention countries. Have any such agreements been reached, in particular with Finland?

Mr. Erroll

I should like to reassure the hon. and learned Member for Kettering (Mr. Mitchison) about the movements of my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade. My right hon. Friend is not here this evening, not because—

The Temporary Chairman (Mr. Blackburn)

I do not think that subject comes under the Question, "That the Clause stand part of the Bill."

Mr. Erroll

I agree, Mr. Blackburn, but I felt that as a somewhat sarcastic reference had been made to my right hon. Friend's movements I might be allowed to say where he is. He is busy preparing himself for tomorrow's debate.

While Clause 6 is one which we would use in order to extend the area and admit new members and would certainly be the one which would enable us to welcome Finland, all I am able to say is that discussions have taken place. Finland's interest in associating herself with the European Free Trade Association is well known, but her association could take one of several forms and the details are at present being discussed by all the parties concerned. As these are confidential discussions, it would obviously not be proper for me this evening to make the details public, and I am sure the hon. and learned Gentleman would not wish me to do so.

Question put and agreed to.

Clause ordered to stand part of the Bill.

Clauses 7 to 12 ordered to stand part of the Bill.