HC Deb 23 February 1967 vol 741 c1951
Q1. Mr. Ian Lloyd

asked the Prime Minister what restrictions on British commercial activities in France were discussed during his meeting with President de Gaulle.

The Prime Minister (Mr. Harold Wilson)

None Sir.

Mr. Lloyd

Is the Prime Minister aware that, for a period of some six months, delivery of British exports to France in British vehicles has been restricted by what is known as the "zone court", some 250 kilometres from the coast, after which all goods have to be transferred to French vehicles? No such restrictions operate on French deliveries to this country. Is he further aware that it is the general view in France that our licensing procedures are unduly complex? Will he ask the Minister of Transport to look into this to see whether we cannot get some reciprocity?

The Prime Minister

This matter was not discussed with President de Gaulle, and I am beginning to understand why. Certainly this would be a matter for discussion with the French Government by my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade and I will discuss it with my right hon. Friend.