§ 3.10 p.m.
§ LORD BROCKWAYMy 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 what conclusions have been reached regarding trade co-operation between the European Community and India and Asian Commonwealth nations.
§ THE PARLIAMENTARY UNDERSECRETARY OF STATE, DEPARTMENT OF TRADE AND INDUSTRY (THE EARL OF LIMERICK)My Lords, under the Declaration of Intent to the developing independent Commonwealth countries in Asia, the enlarged E.E.C. expressed its willingness, from January 1, 1973, to examine any trade problems that may arise with a view to seeking solutions. The Council of Ministers has already agreed that a Commercial Co-operation Agreement should be negotiated with India. The other countries concerned have also set up a dialogue with the Commission.
§ LORD BROCKWAYMy Lords, while welcoming that reply— and I was asking for information generally—may I ask whether Her Majesty's Government will consider, when these matters have been discussed, the possibility that it may be to the detriment of India and Commonwealth countries in Asia that there are very exceptional arrangements as between France and ex-French colonies in the North of Africa which have close economic arrangements with France.
§ THE EARL OF LIMERICKMy Lords, I have no doubt that that is one of the matters that will be considered.