HC Deb 08 June 1972 vol 838 cc702-3
Q3. Mr. Spearing

asked the Prime Minister when he next intends to make an official visit to Luxembourg.

Mr. Maudling

I have been asked to reply.

My right hon. Friend has at present no plans to do so.

Mr. Spearing

Does the right hon. Gentleman recall that on 21st March his right hon. and learned Friend the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster told me in a Written Answer that it was in Luxembourg that the Council of Ministers said that where vital national interests were at stake and decisions of the Council of Ministers could be taken by a majority, the Ministers would endeavour to reach unanimity within a reasonable time? Why was this statement upgraded in the White Paper of last summer to say that where vital matters of national interest were at stake it was established that there should be unanimity? Was that a mistake or a deliberate attempt to deceive?

Mr. Maudling

I had always thought that the Luxembourg Declaration was clearly known and understood.

Mr. Tapsell

Following the question by the Leader of the Opposition about rises in house prices, is it not a fact that one important factor is that whereas under the Labour Government mortgages became unobtainable, they are now freely available?

Mr. Speaker

I do not connect that question with a visit to Luxembourg.