HC Deb 25 November 1969 vol 792 cc178-9
7. Mr. Gwynfor Evans

asked the Secretary of State for Wales whether he is submitting evidence to be included in Her Majesty's Government's analysis of the effects of entering the European Economic Community showing its probable industrial, economic and social consequences in Wales.

Mr. George Thomas

The Government will continue to take account of the implications for Wales and, indeed, for all parts of the United Kingdom, of British entry into the European Economic Community.

Mr. Gwynfor Evans

Is the right hon Gentleman aware that the revelation made at the Crowther Commission's last sitting by a candid civil servant—that the Welsh Office has made no study at all of the possible effects on Wales of entry to the Common Market—will come as no surprise and will be understood as another illustration of the fact that the Government here in London never consider the effects on Wales?

Mr. Thomas

I hate to disagree with the hon. Member, as he is well aware. All civil servants in the Welsh Office are candid at all times, but I must tell him that as a member of the Government I am of course involved in any economic study of the consequences of joining the European Economic Community. My first consideration is the interests of Wales.

Mr. Fred Evans

Can my right hon. Friend give similar information to that asked for in the Question as to the effects on Wales of a refusal by England to accord to a separate Wales the recognition that is asked for in the Question? Can he inform the House of what studies are at present being made by the Welsh Office of such possibilities on entry into the Common Market?

Mr. Thomas

We never cease from such studies.

Mr. Gibson-Watt

In view of the studies, could the right hon. Gentleman tell us what he considers the consequences for Welsh agriculture, for which he is responsible, would be if we were to enter the Common Market?

Mr. Thomas

Of course I am very conscious of my responsibilities along with those of my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture. I can assure the House and the hon. Member that I am keeping in very close touch with my right hon. Friend on this matter.