HC Deb 23 May 1975 vol 892 c649W
Mr. Spearing

asked the Lord President of the Council why the Referendum Information Unit took nearly three weeks to provide information requested by the National Referendum Campaign about food surpluses in the EEC.

Mr. Edward Short

Much of the information asked for was of highly technical and detailed nature which required considerable research by officials in a number of different Departments. Of the 27 questions covering more than 80 separate points sent to the Unit on 14th April, only six questions took as long as nearly three weeks to answer.

Mr. Spearing

asked the Lord President of the Council if he will make arrangements for the Government EEC Information Unit to provide a priority service for the official umbrella organisations between 23rd May and 5th June.

Mr. Edward Short

No. The Referendum Information Unit will continue to provide information to all inquirers as quickly as possible.