HC Deb 07 June 1962 vol 661 c661
Q7. Mr. Zilliacus

asked the Prime Minister whether he will make a statement on his official talks with the Australian Prime Minister and the New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister about the agreement concluded with the European Economic Community to end Commonwealth Preferences and apply Common Market tariffs against their manufactures by 1970.

The Prime Minister

As I have already told the House, my discussions with the Prime Minister of Australia and the Deputy Prime Minister of New Zealand are confidential.

Mr. Zilliacus

Is it not a fact that both the Prime Minister of Australia and the Deputy Prime Minister of New Zealand publicly asked for an assurance that the agreement reached on ending Commonwealth Preferences on manufactures would not apply to Commonwealth foodstuffs? Is the Prime Minister aware that Commonwealth spokesmen have publicly stated that this is a major 'break-through which will set the pattern for the agreement to be negotiated on Commonwealth foodstuffs? In the circumstances, will the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance such as that demanded by the Australian Prime Minister and the Deputy Prime Minister of New Zealand?

The Prime Minister

This matter was dealt with by the Lord Privy Seal yesterday. It was dealt with in yesterday's debate and can be discussed again today.