§ 50. Mr. Guy Barnettasked the Lord Privy Seal on how many occasions the Development Council of the European Economic Community has considered the Brandt report since its publication.
§ Mr. Neil MartenIssues raised in the report have been discussed at all three meetings of the development council since the report was published.
§ Mr. BarnettDoes the right hon. Gentleman recognise the importance of the practical contribution that the EEC must make to world development if it is to make a significant contribution to the Mexico summit meeting? Has the right hon. Gentleman seen the criticisms made of EEC aid by a Select Committee of the other places? Is he aware of the serious situation affecting developing countries as a result of falling world commodity prices and the strain that that is putting on STABEX? Has the right hon. Gentleman put any pressure on his EEC partners to see whether something could be done about that specific problem, which is becoming most serious?
§ Mr. MartenI take the hon. Gentleman's point. In our forthcoming Presidency we shall keep abreast of development aspects and shall ensure that further work on food aid, agriculture and so on is carried on. During our Presidency we shall seek an evaluation of EEC aid to agriculture and food production.
§ Mr. StokesWill my right hon. Friend take care—as I am sure that he will—not to get into a tizzy over the Brandt report, which has been somewhat over-praised?
§ Mr. MartenYes, Sir.