§ Mr. Emeryasked the Lord Privy Seal how the Government intend to ensure that British members of the European Parliament are briefed on Government policy and are made aware of British interests.
§ Sir Ian GilmourThe Government intend to maintain as close relations with United Kingdom Members of the European Parliament as possible. Written factual briefs on subjects under discussion in the European Parliament will be provided by Government Departments on request. Ministers will also be prepared to provide oral briefings at the request of Members of the European Parliament, where this is appropriate. Letters to Ministers from Members of the European Parliament, where they concern Community affairs, will normally be answered with the same priority as those from Members of Parliament. Members of the European Parliament will also be able to receive Government publications free of charge.