Malta (Imports Embargo)

HC Deb 23 March 1979 vol 964 cc297-8W

Mr. Nicholas Winterton

asked the Secretary of State for Trade (1) if he has

made representations to Malta, directly and through the EEC, to lift its embargo on imports from the United Kingdom and adhere to the understanding reached by the EEC with the Mediterranean associates;

(2) what action he intends to ask the EEC to take following the embargo on imports from the United Kingdom by Malta in retaliation for restrictions imposed by the EEC.

Mr. Meacher

We have told the EEC Commission that we regard the Maltese embargo as contrary to the EEC-Malta Association Agreement. The Commission has taken this up with the Maltese authorities in the context of the negotiations aimed at reaching a satisfactory voluntary restraint arrangement on Maltese textile exports, to the Community. I would prefer to await the conclusion of such an agreement, coupled with a removal of the Maltese embargo, which would be in the best interests of both sides, before commenting on further steps to ensure the agreement is adhered to.