§ 10. Mr. Hattersleyasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations which Commonwealth countries have established special trading relations with the European Economic Community since the breakdown of the Brussels negotiations for British membership.
§ Mr. Cledwyn HughesSo far as my information goes no Commonwealth country has yet established a special trading relationship with the European Economic Community.
§ Mr. HattersleyWould not my hon. Friend agree that, although no official arrangements have been arrived at, at least five Commonwealth countries have opened negotiations with the Six, one of whom is prepared to accept terms detrimental to British interests?
§ Mr. HughesThe position is that the Nigerian Government and the European Economic Community have agreed in principle to the content of an association agreement, but I cannot say when a formal agreement is likely to be signed or implemented. As to the general principle, we would welcome greater trading opportunities for Commonwealth countries in 13 the market of the European Economic Community, but it remains our view that developing countries should not be required to give preferential advantages in their markets in return for concessions given to them by other countries.