HL Deb 09 May 2001 vol 625 cc213-4WA
Lord Pearson of Rannoch

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Further to the Written Answer by Lord Sainsbury of Turville on 30 April (WA 250), Why the United Kingdom's position as a natural entry point into the European Union market would be any less attractive to overseas investors if the United Kingdom were to leave the European Union after negotiating a free trade agreement which was at least as favourable as our present terms of access to the Single Market. [HL2096]

Lord Sainsbury of Turville

As Her Majesty's Government have no intention of withdrawing from the European Union, I have nothing to add to my previous reply.

Lord Pearson of Rannoch

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Further to the Written Answer by Lord Sainsbury of Turville on 30 April (WA 250), why the United Kingdom, prior to or contemporary with leaving the European Union, should not negotiate a free trade agreement with the European Union which was at least as favourable as present arrangements. [HL2097]

Lord Sainsbury of Turville

Her Majesty's Government has no intention of withdrawing from the European Union.