HL Deb 23 October 2003 vol 653 c191WA
Lord Hylton

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they are seeking to clarify the roles and relationships between member states and the European Union Trade Commissioner in trade negotiations. [HL4711]

Lord Sainsbury of Turville

The respective roles of the European Commission and the Council of Ministers, in internal trade negotiations, are set out in the EU Treaty. The Commission negotiates under a mandate agreed by the Council.