Dr. ThomasTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster when he last met his counterparts from the other European Community states to discuss the effects of the completion of the single European market on the economy of the less-favoured regions of the Community; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MaudeOther Ministers and I frequently meet our counterparts in other member states to discuss all aspects of the completion of the single market.
§ Mr. ThurnhamTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster if he will make a statement on the current progress of preparations by British industry for 1992.
§ Mr. MaudeBusiness awareness of the 1992 target date has risen dramatically since we launched our Europe open for busines campaign and is now about 80 per cent. The next phase of the campaign will underline the need for action by firms throughout the country to prepare for the challenge of operating in the single market. Only about a quarter are yet doing so.
§ Mr. WigleyTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what representations he has received concerning the effects of the completion of the European single market on the regions of the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MaudeI have recently answered questions on this issue from several hon. Members, incuding the hon. Members for Meirionnydd Nant Conwy (Dr. Thomas) and for Ynys MÔn (Mr. Jones) on 13 April at column159 and 7 June at column 430, respectively.
§ Mr. Austin MitchellTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what attempts he made to find a manufacturer wholly or mainly engaged in production in the United Kingdom to take part in his advertising campaign to promote 1992.
§ Mr. MaudeSeveral of the business figures featured in the single European market advertising campaign are associated with manufacturing in the United Kingdom, including Sir John Egan, the chairman and chief executive of Jaguar.