HC Deb 21 May 1975 vol 892 cc413-4W
33. Mr. Gould

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether he is satisfied that the ministerial veto in the Council of Ministers is an adequate substitute for parliamentary control over policy issues.

Mr. James Callaghan

The veto does not act as a substitute: it makes a positive contribution to the maintenance of effective parliamentary control. It enables Ministers to ensure that decisions are not taken which would conflict with the policy of the Government.

34. Mr. Spearing

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what was the nature of any business discussed by the Council of Ministers additional to those listed in his last business statement concerning provisional agendas.

Mr. Ennals

The main additional items discussed by the Foreign Affairs Council were the state of negotiations on agree- ments with countries in the Mediterranean area, Portugal and the extension of the International Wheat Agreement. The Finance Ministers also discussed yesterday the Community exchange régime.

Mr. Faulds

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he has published a forecast of business in the Council of Ministers of the EEC during the month of June 1975.

Mr. Hattersley

A forecast of business likely to appear on the agenda of the Council in June has been deposited in the House.