§ Mr. Murphyasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if consideration was given to representation at the fourth European conference of frontier regions in the light of invitations to both the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ChopeThis conference of frontier regions took place in Spain on 23–25 March. Officials from the 21 member states of the Council of Europe with an interest were invited; its aim was to review the problems facing transfrontier co-operation in Europe, to discuss achievements and shortcomings, and to examine prospects for the year 2000. The United Kingdom decided on this occasion not to be represented because as an island the transfrontier problems being discussed were of little relevance. I understand that the Republic of Ireland similarly sent no representatives.