§ 1. Mr. Lewis Stevensasked the Secretary of State for Employment what European Commission directives on health and safety the Government expected to implement in the current year; and whether he will make a statement of the benefits of United Kingdom membership of the European Economic Community.
§ The Minister of State, Department of Employment (Mr. John Selwyn Gummer)This year the Government expect to implement some 11 directives in the health and safety sector. Britain gains considerably by common health and safety standards through the Community. We avoid unfair competition and are given easier access to markets which could otherwise be denied us.
§ Mr. StevensI thank my hon. Friend for that reply and welcome the impact that the EEC is having on this sector. Will he ensure that a reasonable amount of time is given to employers to implement these procedures before they come into force?
§ Mr. GummerWe must do everything possible to enable employers to come to terms with the changes that we make. The changes are to their advantage, because they will be able to sell goods in the rest of Europe and keep jobs.
§ Mr. PenhaligonWhat is the present position in the European negotiations vis-a-vis the regulations to reduce noise levels?
§ Mr. GummerDiscussions are continuing, and there have been reports from specialist committees which will have to be taken into account. I hope that we shall come to a more rapid conclusion than at one point seemed likely.
§ Sir Anthony MeyerIn a trade area, such as the EEC, is it not essential to have effective enforcement of common health and safety standards, otherwise there will be gross distortions of trade?
§ Mr. GummerNot only that, but other countries are now following our rules in the EEC, which they would not if Britain were not a member of the Community.