§ Mr. Frank FieldTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what consultations the Department of Trade and Industry has held on the future of the EC code of conduct for companies with interests in South Africa(a) with other EC Governments and (b) others; what have been the results of those consultations; and what has been the policy of Her Majesty's Government in these consultations.
§ Mr. Heseltine[holding answer 21 May 1992]: In the light of the recent political changes in South Africa, the EC Presidency has initiated discussions on the future of the code of conduct and its reporting requirements. We are consulting the main reporting companies as part of this reassessment and will reach a view as to the Government's future policy in the light of this.
§ Mr. Frank FieldTo ask the President of the Board of Trade why publication of the annual summary of United Kingdom companies' responses under the EC code of conduct for companies with interests in South Africa has been delayed; and when it will be published.
§ Mr. Heseltine[holding answer 21 May 1992]: The normal timetable for the presentation to Parliament of this year's annual summary of United Kingdom companies' responses under the EC code of conduct was delayed because of the Dissolution of Parliament on 16 March. The summary will be presented soon.
§ Mr. Frank FieldTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what is his policy in respect of encouraging companies to respond to the EC code of conduct for companies with interests in South Africa for the period ending 30 June.
§ Mr. Heseltine[holding answer 21 May 1992]: The Government have always encouraged companies to comply with the reporting requirements of the EC code of conduct, while recognising that compliance is voluntary.