HC Deb 15 June 1971 vol 819 cc217-8
14. Mr. Knox

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what estimate has now been made of dynamic effects of Great Britain's entry to the European Economic Community.

Mr. Barber

Assuming that satisfactory terms are negotiated, we believe that membership of the enlarged European Economic Community will provide a greatly enhanced opportunity for improvements in our industrial structure, our productivity, and our industrial investment.

Mr. Knox

I accept the practical difficulties of making such assumptions, but would the Chancellor not agree that it would be a good idea to try to carry out this exercise in advance of our entry? Are the difficulties not likely more than to offset the costs of entry? Does he not think that making such estimates now might help to dispel some of the doubts among anti-Marketeers?

Mr. Barber

I will consider what my hon. Friend has said, but there are great difficulties in making absolutely firm quantitative assessments. This has always been recognised.

Mr. Heffer

Does the right hon. Gentleman consider the Common Market agricultural policy, which is bound to lead to increased food prices, the effect on the inshore fishermen, and the affect on regional policy to be beneficial dynamic benefits of entry into the Community?

Mr. Barber

Obviously, when negotiating in a matter of this kind, some aspects are favourable and some are unfavourable. I take the view—and I respect the hon. Gentleman's view—that on balance without doubt, provided we can get reasonable terms, entry will be to the advantage of this country and will improve the prosperity of our people.