§ Mr. Chris Smithasked the Prime Minister, pursuant to her answer of 28 June, Official Report, column 501, about the proceedings of the committee on international trade in endangered species regulations, whether the United Kingdom has questioned or made representations about the reasons for the rules of procedure of the committee requiring confidentiality; and if she will make a statement.
§ The Prime MinisterThe proceedings of European Community committees of this nature are normally confidential (in the same way that proceedings of meetings of officials within the United Kingdom would be so regarded). There is no reason to make an exception for this committee.