§ Q2. Dr. Gilbertasked the Prime Minister if he will make a statement on his recent discussions with the Prime Minister of Luxembourg.
§ The Prime MinisterI had the pleasure of entertaining Monsieur Werner at 10 Downing Street on 22nd February, when I discussed with him a range of subjects of interest to our two countries as well as to the European Communities generally.
§ Dr. GilbertDid the Prime Minister discuss with Mr. Werner the proposed new economic co-ordinating committee of the European Communities? If so, can he say whether he favours its being inside the present Commission structure, as one gathers the Dutch Government would rather have it, or outside, as the French would rather have it?
§ The Prime MinisterWe had a general discussion about these matters, but obviously they are issues to be settled by discussion between the present members of the Community and in consultation with those countries which are about to join. I would not like to say anything further on the matter at this stage.
§ Mr. DykesIn view of the importance of the European monetary proposals, can my right hon. Friend say how rapidly he sees these matters developing with our own contribution as a prospective member nation?
§ The Prime MinisterIt is very difficult to predict the timetable at this stage. Members of the Community have been meeting on this question this morning, and may still be continuing their meeting. Progress was suspended early in 1971 after the first Werner Report, and today's meeting is the first opportunity 1232 they have had of taking up these matters again.