HC Deb 20 May 1968 vol 765 cc28-9
32. Mr. George Jeger

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs on how many days the Assemblies of the Council of Europe and the Western European Union met during the session 1967–68; and on how many of these days was the leader of the British delegation present.

Mr. William Rodgers

Twenty-three and 14 respectively.

Mr. Jeger

I asked three questions, and I have had only two answers. May I have an answer to the latter part of the Question? On how many of these days was the leader of the British delegation present?

Mr. Rodgers

I repeat my reply: 23 and 14, respectively.

Mr. Jeger

Is my right hon. Friend surprised that the European delegates to these Assemblies do not take very seriously the British delegation, or our protestations that we wish to get into Europe, when our representation is so meagre and we take our responsibilities so lightly?

Mr. Rodgers

It has not been my experience that those who attend the Council of Europe think that we take our interests lsss than very seriously. Our delegation as a whole, including the period daring which my hon. Friend was a Member of it, had a very good attendance record and a very high level of participation.

Mr. Webster

Who is the leader of the delegation?

Mr. Rodgers

I am, Sir.