§ Mr. SpearingTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs which article of which treaty enables him to prevent, or vote against, any proposal for retaliatory action by the European Union or Community in respect of their dispute with Canada relating to fisheries. [18035]
§ Mr. David DavisWe believe that the best way to resolve the fisheries dispute between the EU and Canada is by negotiation. There is no formal proposal to impose sanctions. A proposal under article 228a of the treaty of Rome to interrupt or reduce, in part of completely, economic relations with Canada would require the adoption of a common position or joint action according to the provisions of the treaty on European Union relating to common foreign and security policy, which would be subject to unanimity.