HC Deb 25 April 1967 vol 745 c1321
Q1. Dr. David Owen

asked the Prime Minister whether, irrespective of joining the European Economic Community, he will start taking the necessary steps to reduce the fiscal and legal obstacles to European technological collaboration.

The Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. George Brown)

For reasons which, I am sure, the House will understand and respect, I have been asked to reply.

The Government have for some time been concerned to reduce all possible obstacles to technological collaboration. But if my hon. Friend has any particular points in mind, perhaps he would let my right hon. Friend know of them.

Dr. Owen

Would my right hon. Friend consider taking a firm decision to introduce a value added tax before 1970 and thus comply with the remaining other six countries in the E.E.C.?

Mr. Brown

This is a subject which, of course, we have under consideration.

Lord Balniel

If the Foreign Secretary has this under consideration, why did he introduce the ridiculous Selective Employment Tax and not the value added tax which the Community will have harmonised upon by January, 1970?

Mr. Brown

The only thing I ever find ridiculous about the noble Lord is the remarks he makes.