§ 16. Mr. Redmondasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if, in the event of Great Britain joining the European Economic Community, British industry will have the opportunity to discuss with parallel organisations in the Community the social problems of industrial development within the European Community.
§ Mr. Anthony GrantAny organisation representing British industry is free now to discuss these matters with its opposite number in Europe.
§ Mr. RedmondI thank my hon. Friend for that answer, but is he aware of the considerable disquiet in the regions, and certainly in Lancashire, because it is felt that the main benefits of membership of the Common Market will go to the "golden triangle" of London-Paris-Bonn and the regions will suffer neglect as a result? Could my hon. Friend give the country, and especially the regions, some assurance in this respect and say that organisations such as the C.B.I., the industrial development associations and so on will be able to consult with a view to improving matters in some of the older areas?
§ Mr. GrantThe Community countries are well aware of these matters and are particularly conscious of regional problems. There is nothing to stop regional policy. Both the C.B.I. and the T.U.C. have close contacts with their opposite numbers in Europe, and these will, no doubt, continue.