HC Deb 26 January 1973 vol 849 cc255-6W
Mr. Alfred Morris

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what is the policy of the EEC towards the development of oil and natural gas resources in the North Sea.

Mr. Tom Boardman

Community policy towards the development of oil and natural gas resources in the North Sea has not been determined.

Mr. Alfred Morris

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how much he expects to be spent from the EEC budget on regional development in United Kingdom development areas in 1973.

Mr. Anthony Grant

The help at present given by the Community for regional development as such is not financed from the Community budget. A new regional development fund financed from this source is, however, to be set up by the end of this year.

Mr. Alfred Morris

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps he is taking to protect United Kingdom standards of accountancy from any adverse effects of entry into the EEC.

Sir G. Howe

My Department is keeping in close touch with the accountancy profession on all matters arising from membership of the EEC which concern methods and standards of accounting practice.

Mr. Alfred Morris

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on his consultations with the chairman of the Scottish Institute of Accountants about standards of accountancy in the United Kingdom.

Sir G. Howe

My Department has consulted the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland on matters arising from membership of the EEC. These matters include the qualifications of auditors and a proposal for a directive on company accounts.