HC Deb 26 January 1973 vol 849 cc248-9W
Mr. Deakins

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if in future statements on discussions in the EEC Council of Ministers he will mention matters of importance to Great Britain discussed without a conclusion being reached.

Mr. John Davies

My colleagues and I will do so whenever we judge it to be necessary and appropriate.

Mr. Alfred Morris

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make proposals designed to ensure that the EEC adopts more outward-looking economic policies towards non-EEC countries.

Mr. John Davies

The communiqué issued after the summit meeting in Paris on 19th and 20th October reaffirmed the Community's determination to contribute to a progressive liberalisation of international trade and emphasised that this determination applies to all countries without exception. Particular stress was laid on the need to respond even more than in the past to the expectations of the developing countries.

These are aims which have the full support of Her Majesty's Government.

Mr. Deakins

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will now publish a White Paper on the implications of EEC political union.

Mr. John Davies

No. As I told the hon. Member on 8th November, it is the Government's intention to move step by step towards the objective of European union, and Parliament will be able to debate the matter at every stage.—[Vol. 845, c.196.]