HC Deb 28 April 1998 vol 311 c69W
Mr. Pike

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs in what ways the EU is proposing to improve South Africa's access to European markets; on what types of products he is seeking a reduction in customs duties; and if he will make a statement. [39851]

Mr. Doug Henderson

The EU is negotiating a Free Trade Agreement with South Africa which will cover substantially all trade, with no sectors excluded. We welcome this, and support a wide-ranging and liberal outcome. The Agreement should, over time, lead to the complete removal of tariffs for most South African exports to the EU; tariffs are likely to remain for a number of agricultural products.