HC Deb 01 May 1981 vol 3 c466W
Mr. Normanton

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether he estimates that the increased role of the Permanent Representatives Committee has resulted in a reduced role for embassies within the member States of the European Community.

Sir Ian Gilmour

No. Under the Community treaties, the Committee of Permanent Representatives of the member States is responsible for preparing the work of the Council and carrying out the tasks assigned to it by the Council. The functions of the Council of Ministers and those of embassies within the member States of the Community are different.