HC Deb 07 August 1972 vol 842 cc235-6W
43. Mr. William Hamilton

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he has now been able to satisfy the West German Government and other European Economic Community members that the United Kingdom policies on regional development do not conflict with our treaty obligations.

Mr. John Davies

The hon. Member is under a misapprehension. No Community Government has sought such an assurance.

Mr. Tilney

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what recent talks he has had with the Commission of the European Community as regards a common policy for ship repairing among the members of the Common Market.

Mr. Anthony Grant

None. After accession to the European Communities we shall play a full part in any consideration of a common policy towards the ship-repairing industry.

Mr. Redmond

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry whether he has yet begun and survey into the effect of entry into the European Economic Community which was recommended by the Bolton Committee; and when the report of this survey may be expected.

Mr. Anthony Grant

We started this survey earlier this year, as my right hon. Friend told my lion. Friend the Member for Exeter (Mr. John Hannam) on 28th February. We have looked first at the operational changes which small firms will face and how they will be affected by legislative and regulatory alterations in the early stages of our accession. I hope to publish a summary of the results in Trade and Industry in the autumn; and I have in mind also to publish, in the months before accession, in booklet form. a guide to changes in the law on entry, with the needs of small and medium-sized firms particuluarly in mind.—[Vol. 832, c. 28.]