HC Deb 22 February 1984 vol 54 c527W
Mr. Austin Mitchell

asked the Prime Minister what consideration has been given by the European Economic Community Council of Ministers to the application of the unanimity rule in their proceedings, following the occasion when a United Kingdom vote on an agricultural prices proposal was overridden by a majority vote.

The Prime Minister

Decision-making procedures in the Council of Ministers were considered during the negotiation of the solemn declaration on European union, which was signed on 19 June 1983. Statements made on that occasion by the United Kingdom and four other member states recorded the view that, where a member state considered its very important interests to be involved, the discussions should be continued until unanimous agreement was reached.