HC Deb 09 July 1969 vol 786 cc271-2W
Mr. Haseldine

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if, in future negotiations for entry into the European Economic Community, the British Government will propose the establishment of a major community youth exchange programme between member and applicant states; and if, in anticipation, the British Government will now consider extending its present programme to countries other than the Federal Republic of Germany.

Mr. Foley

It is too soon to foresee the course of future negotiations for the entry of the United Kingdom into an enlarged European Economic Community. But Her Majesty's Government are aware of the importance of youth exchanges as a way of generally strengthening links between this country and Western Europe.

Mr. Bradley

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if Her Majesty's Government have yet commenced discussions with the Government of the Republic of Italy to implement the section of the joint declaration of the two Governments which recommended the full participation of the younger generation in building Europe; and if he will propose the early development of a youth leadership exchange programme based upon the existing Anglo-German youth exchange.

Mr. Foley

No discussions have yet been held with the Italian Government. I would refer my hon. Friend to my hon. Friend the Parliamentary Under-Secretary's reply to the hon. Member for Lewisham, South (Mr. Carol Johnson) on 9th June.—[Vol. 784, c.183–4.]