§ 2.36 p.m.
§ LORD AYLESTONEMy Lords, I beg leave to ask the Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.
§ [The Question was as follows:
§ To ask Her Majesty's Government whether in the negotiations for membership of the E.E.C. they have stressed fully the economic position of the Channel Islands and have endeavoured to safeguard their trade and industry; and have indicated to the E.E.C. the importance of maintaining the unique constitutional position which exists between the Channel Islands and the United Kingdom.]
§ THE PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARY OF STATE, FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE (THE MARQUESS OF LOTHIAN)My Lords, the position of the Channel Islands has not yet been discussed in the negotiations with the E.E.C. but Her Majesty's Government maintain close contact with the Islands' authorities so that their interests may be fully taken into account in the negotiations.
§ LORD AYLESTONEMy Lords, while thanking the noble Marquess for his reply, may I assume that there are not likely to be any constitutional changes?
§ THE MARQUESS OF LOTHIANMy Lords, the Channel Islands authorities have had continuing conversations and discussions with my right honourable friend and my noble friend the Minister of State at the Home Office, about a great many subjects, which at this stage must remain confidential, but these are all matters which will be taken into account when the time comes to discuss the matter.