HC Deb 28 February 1966 vol 725 cc893-4
29. Mr. Dodds-Parker

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what action he is taking on Recommendation No. 449, on the general and political unity of Europe and European economic integration, of the Council of Europe.

Mr. Padley

We are considering this recommendation with our Council of Europe partners in the Committee of Minister's Deputies at Strasbourg.

Mr. Dodds-Parker

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that this recommendation was sponsored by my right hon. Friend the Member for Streatham (Mr. Sandys) and was accepted by an overwhelming majority of the Council of Europe? Will the hon. Gentleman get on and try to do something about following up these openings created at the Council of Europe?

Mr. Padley

As I told the hon. Gentleman a week ago, we are generally in favour of the recommendation, and it is being studied urgently by the Ministers' Deputies.

Mr. Heffer

Will my hon. Friend take into consideration that, while there are many Members on this side of the House who want a wider European unity, we do not necessarily feel that this is the best approach, particularly on the basis of a straightforward acceptance of the Rome Treaty?

Mr. Padley

The position of Her Majesty's Government on joining the Common Market is, I think, well known, particularly in view of the exchanges earlier today.