§ Sir David SteelTo ask the President of the Board of Trade if he will make a statement on the current policy of Her Majesty's Government in respect of trade access for British companies in South Africa. [6398]
§ Mr. LangThe Government support the conclusion of a trade agreement between the European Union and South Africa, which will open market access in both directions. To maximise the benefits for both parties, the agreement should aim at comprehensive product coverage in line with World Trade Organisation rules on free trade areas.
That was the position taken by the Government at the General Affairs Council on 25 March 1996 when the EU's negotiating position on a free trade area with South Africa was adopted. South Africa's formal response to the EU's offer of a free trade area is still awaited.