European Economic Community

HC Deb 22 February 1971 vol 812 cc28-9W

Mr. David Clark

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) what percentage of the total imports of each of the member countries of the European Economic Community is represented by timber in each of the last three years; and what were the comparable figures for the United Kingdom;

(2) what was the amount of timber imported into each of the member countries of the European Economic Community in each of the last three years; and what were the comparable figures for the United Kingdom.

Mr. Anthony Grant

Following is the information:

Mr. Chapman

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry why it is his policy to await the outcome of negotiations with the European Economic Community before announcing the Government's intentions following their review of the need for hallmarking legislation.

Mr. Ridley

Given the progress of the review, it is unlikely that the Government's conclusions can be formulated before the second half of this year. Whether they will then require further consideration in the light of Britain's possible obligations as a member of the Community cannot yet be predicted.