§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs in view of the fact that the European Economic Community Commission has stated in its quarterly report on the economic situation that for the first three months of this year there has been a deterioration, and that its position is weakening regarding trade with the United Kingdom, to what extent these facts will affect Great Britain's application and conditions of entry into the European Economic Community.
§ Mr. RipponThe report does not affect Her Majesty's Government's application to join the European Economic Community.
§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs when he expects to receive all the relevant proposals as considered by the European Economic Community Council of Ministers on the Community's approach to the policy on tobacco, cigarettes and cigar prices within the countries of the Six.
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§ Mr. RipponI cannot anticipate when the Council of Ministers of the European Economic Community will complete their consideration of proposals relating to tobacco, cigarettes and cigars.
§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how long his Department has been studying the implication of the draft directives for the British insurance industry, as proposed by the Commission of the European Economic Community; for how much longer he expects to continue his studies of these drafts before making an announcement on his decisions; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RipponThe Commission of the European Communities have had draft directives on non-life insurance in preparation since 1966 and these have undergone a continuing process of amendment.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the Department of Trade and Industry, in consultation with the British insurers, have followed progress closely and continue to do so.
It is not possible to say when a final draft of each directive will be submitted to the Council of Ministers for approval or what specific provisions each draft will then contain.
§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether any organisation on application to his Department will be able to obtain a grant in aid, similar to the European Movement, if they can establish that they are carrying on propaganda in support of Great Britain's entry into the European Economic Community; and what procedure must be adopted to submit these claims.
§ Mr. RipponApplications for Grants-in-Aid can be made in writing to my right hon. Friend. Such applications would be considered in the light of all the relevant factors.