HC Deb 29 April 1963 vol 676 cc693-4
8. Mr. Zilliacus

asked the Lord Privy Seal if he will give an assurance that there will be no resumption of negotiations for Great Britain's membership of or association with the European Economic Community before the next General Election.

Mr. Heath

Her Majesty's Government's policy following the breakdown of the Brussels negotiations was explained in the speeches of my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister and myself in the debate on 11th and 12th February.

Mr. Zilliacus

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is still some doubt, arising out of various communications in the Press and in speeches by himself in Paris, whether the Government are attempting in one way or another to renew negotiations for some form of association or membership before a General Election, and will he give the House a categorical assurance that no such proceedings are contemplated by the Government?

Mr. Heath

There is no confusion over this matter. On the question of association, the position remains exactly as I have described it in the debate which I have mentioned.

Mr. Blyton

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that many of us are still suspicious that his attitude is still to get us into the Common Market by any door possible? How can we expect to get Commonwealth and E.F.T.A. trade if people believe that he is still trying to take us into the Common Market?

Mr. Heath

There is no need for the hon. Gentleman to be suspicious. We have always kept the House fully informed of everything that we were doing in connection with the Brussels negotiations, and our position has been clearly stated since.

Mr. Ridley

Will my right hon. Friend confirm that he is prepared to reopen these negotiations both before and after the next General Election?

Mr. Heath

In the present situation we have to be realistic and recognise that the way is barred through no fault of our own.