HC Deb 01 May 1972 vol 836 cc18-9W
67. Mr. Shore

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how much capital was invested by United Kingdom firms in the European Community, in the form of direct investment, in 1971 and in the five previous years; and how much direct investment took place, by Common Market firms, in the United Kingdom in 1971 and in the preceding five years.

Mr. Noble:

Following are the figures:

source. After the transitional period imports will become subject to the common-external tariff except where preferential arrangements apply. I gave information about these arrangements in my answer to the lion. Member for Oldham, East (Mr. Lamond) on 21st April.—[Vol. 835. c. 171.]

Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry whether he is aware that the Commission of the European Economic Community has submitted to the Council of the Commission two directives harmonising containers used to package liquids and bottles used for beverages, mineral waters, cooking oil, beer, wine and vinegar; to what extent on entry Great Britain will have to adopt these provisions; and whether he will make full details available to the House of Commons.

Mr. Noble:

Yes. I am well aware of these proposed directives, which are designed to facilitate the trade in these commodities between member States, and have discussed the current drafts both with the industry and the commission. I would point out that as drafted they do not apply to goods traded within national boundaries. In the event that these drafts were adopted member states would in accordance with Article 189 of the EEC Treaty be obliged to modify their practices accordingly.