§ 80. Sir A. Braithwaiteasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will consider calling a Commonwealth Conference to discuss the implications of a Common Market in Europe and its effect on the Commonwealth generally.
§ Mr. BirchNo. There is a continuing exchange of information and views on this subject between the United Kingdom Government and other Commonwealth Governments. There will be no lack of opportunity for further consultation as the situation develops.
§ 81. Mr. Hurdasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will summarise the most recent views expressed to him by Dominion Governments on the desirability, so far as they are concerned, of Britain joining in the European Free Trade plan.
§ Mr. BirchIn the debate on 26th November last the Prime Minister, when Chancellor, informed the House that the initial reactions of other Commonwealth Governments had been friendly and sympathetic and that this had been confirmed by their more considered judgments. We have continued to exchange views with these Governments, and their attitudes have in general remained as described.