HC Deb 10 June 1974 vol 874 c406W
Mr. Hill

asked the Secretary of State for Industry what consultations with British industry already established in the Community are taking place during the renegotiation talks on EEC matters.

Mr. Heffer

There have been discussions with various bodies, including trade unions and the CBI, representative of a wide cross-section of British industry including companies which have established manufacturing and trading bases in other EEC countries. Further discussions can be expected as the renegotiation proceeds.

Mr. Hill

asked the Secretary of State for Industry what consultations have taken place on a regional basis in Ulster, Scotland, Wales, the North-West and the North-East, respectively, to assess the impact on industrial investment if Great Britain withdraws from the EEC.

Mr. Heffer

No such consultations have taken place on a region-by-region basis; but we have received views from various quarters, including potential investors in the region.

Mr. Dykes

asked the Secretary of State for Industry what consultations have taken place between Her Majesty's Government and representatives of the shipbuilding industry, the automobile industry and the British Steel Corporation, respectively, in connection with the renegotiation of our membership of the European Community; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Meacher

The Government keep in close touch with representatives of these industries on all matters of mutual concern including European questions. As regards the broad question of renegotiation of the terms of entry into the EEC, the Government's intentions were set out in the statements made by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs on 1st April and 4th June.

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