HC Deb 16 February 1971 vol 811 cc1594-5
16. Mr. Deakins

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer why he does not intend to publish the results of his studies of the proposals for economic and monetary union put forward by the European Economic Community Commission, when these studies have been completed.

Mr. Barber

It has never been the practice of this, or any other, Government to publish the official advice which Ministers have before them when reaching their conclusions on matters of this kind.

Mr. Deakins

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the widespread concern, both in this House and in the country, about the implications of these revolutionary proposals for economic and monetary union, particularly for parliamentary control of taxation? Why, therefore, on an issue of this magnitude and importance should the Treasury keep this advice secret?

Mr. Barber

The Question refers to the proposals of the European Economic Commission. As the hon. Gentleman well knows, those proposals have now been overtaken by the agreement reached by the Six at their meeting on 8th and 9th of this month. As I have already said elsewhere, I welcome the conclusion reached by the Six on that occasion.

Mr. Scott-Hopkins

Does my right hon. Friend agree that the Six have arranged a programme for their proposals stretching over 10 years and that if we have the opportunity of joining the Common Market in the next three years we shall be able to play an important part in the development of those proposals?

Mr. Barber

My hon. Friend is quite right. I see no serious problems for the United Kingdom under the first stage proposals which have been agreed. Thereafter, if we are able to archieve acceptable conditions for entry we shall play a major part in the future of the Community.

23. Mr. Laurance Reed

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what would be the effect on sterling of British entry into the European Economic Community.

Mr. Barber

The Government believe that entry into the European Economic Community on acceptable terms will be economically beneficial and, therefore, favourable to sterling.

Mr. Reed

Would the Chancellor agree that constant exchange rates between different currencies are essential in any customs union and, therefore, in any common market which provides for the free flow of capital between the various countries involved?

Mr. Barber

Nothing in the rules of the Community as far as that is concerned is inconsistent with the rules of the I.M.F.

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