§ Q3. Mr. Rostasked the Prime Minister whether he will introduce on behalf of Her Majesty's Government the annual award of an international prize for services to European unity.
§ The Prime MinisterI think that matters of this kind are best left to the initiative of private organisations.
§ Mr. RostWould not a British award for services to European unity mark a suitable commemoration for British entry to the European Economic Community? Would it not also improve the chances of the Leader of the Opposition winning such a prize, as he has so far been overlooked by prize-givers? Does not the right hon. Gentleman deserve a prize for his efforts to get Britain into the EEC in 1967 on less favourable terms than we are getting now? Has not the right hon. Gentleman established his right—[Interruption.]
§ Mr. SpeakerOrder. That is enough.
§ The Prime MinisterPowerful though no doubt all those considerations are, I would still prefer it to be done, if it has to be done, by private enterprise.
§ Mr. Michael FootIf the Prime Minister were looking for a suitable object for this prize, what about a lovely joint of good old English roast beef?
§ The Prime MinisterIf the hon. Gentleman had ever been prepared to pay attention to agricultural matters when he sat on the benches below the Gangway, and if he had encouraged his Government to expand British agriculture, he might well be able to get a cheaper joint today.