§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what representation he has made to the Confederation of British Industry regarding the renewal of the German Democratic Republic/United Kingdom trade agreement; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Anthony GrantI take it that the hon. Member is referring to the Long Term Trade Agreement between the Confederation of British Industry and the Chamber of Foreign Trade of the German Democratic Republic concluded in December, 1969. This agreement runs for an initial period from signature until 31st December, 1972. Thereafter it will be automatically extended for further 12-monthly periods unless either of the two parties gives three months' written notice of termination before 31st December, 1972, or before the end of any subsequent annual period of the agreement's operation. The question of renewal does not therefore arise. It is for each of the parties to the agreement to decide whether they wish to give notice of termination.