§ 31. Mr. Sillarsasked the Minister of State for Defence what consultations he is engaged on, or proposes to undertake, concerning defence matters within the structure of the European Economic Community.
§ Lord BalnielDefence matters do not fall within the ambit of the European Economic Community.
§ Mr. SillarsWould the Minister not agree that it is very important that the British people know what defence measures we might become involved in if we join the E.E.C.?
§ Lord BalnielI have just told the hon. Member that it does not fall within the ambit of the E.E.C. However, if the E.E.C. is enlarged, it is true that we will feel the need to develop new forms of working together in defence. It is surely a united view that we should develop European defence.