§ 25. Mr. Dodds-Parkerasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations what consultations Her Majesty's Government have now had with the Nigerian, Kenyan, Tanzanian and Ugandan Governments about their applications for association with the European Economic Community concerning the trade interests of the United Kingdom.
§ Mr. BottomleyWe are in close touch with the four Commonwealth Governments concerned. The Government of Nigeria have told us that they have been asked by the E.E.C. for small preferences on a few items in return for advantages for their products in E.E.C. markets. We are in consultation with the Nigerian Government on this matter. The three East African Governments have let it be known that they have told the E.E.C. they are not prepared to offer their preferences in return for advantages in E.E.C. markets.
§ Mr. Dodds-ParkerWhile welcoming very much the initiative which has been taken, may I ask the Commonwealth Secretary whether he can assure us that he will keep in very close touch with developments in view of the importance 1383 of the trade interests to the United Kingdom?
§ Mr. BottomleyYes, Sir.