HC Deb 16 July 1980 vol 988 cc570-1W
Mr. Marlow

asked the Lord Privy Seal what is the political case for the admission of Portugal and Spain into the European Community.

Sir Ian Gilmour

The new democracies of Portugal and Spain have chosen to seek membership of the Community. To turn them away would be unthinkable. Besides, it is in the interest of both the United Kingdom and Europe generally that Portugal and Spain should be anchored to democratic Western Europe as firmly as possible.

50. Mr. Hardy

asked the Lord Privy Seal if he is satisfied that the accession of Greece, Spain and Portugal into the European Economic Community will not have harmful consequences.

Sir Ian Gilmour

The political case for the second enlargement remains decisive, and the economic consequences, some of which will be favourable, are acceptable.

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