HL Deb 02 July 1979 vol 401 c213WA
Lord BARNBY

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What is their guiding policy as Head of the Commonwealth to recently independent members as to avoiding political prejudices influencing normal freedom of trade to which policy it is understood all claim adherence.

Lord TREFGARNE

While the Queen is recognised as Head of the Commonwealth, the United Kingdom is itself only one of 40 equal member States each of which is responsible for its own policies. It is for these States themselves to decide with whom to trade.