asked the Taoiseach if he is in a position to make a further statement on the seven nation plan for a trading association, with particular reference to the proposed special agreement on agriculture, and the probable effect of these developments on this country.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Seven Nation Plan for Trading Association.
1.
At the present stage, I am not in a position to make any further statement concerning the negotiations in which Britain and certain other countries of Western Europe are engaged with a view to the possible establishment of a Free Trade area. The Deputy will appreciate that those negotiations have not yet reached Ministerial level.
The discussions in this connection in which the Ministers for External Affairs and Agriculture took part in London on the 24th instant were of an exploratory nature—specifically related to the possible implications for Anglo-Irish trade of any arrangements that may result from the negotiations —and further discussions are contemplated in the early future. As was stated in the communiqué issued after the London discussions, the desirability of maintaining and strengthening the traditional trade relationship between the two countries, in their mutual interest, was reaffirmed.
I would like to repeat what I have already publicly stated—that there can be no question about our aim, which is to make sure, in so far as it is in our power to do so, that the expansion of our production and exports will not be impeded in whatever trade situation may emerge.
Arising out of the Taoiseach's reply, might I ask if, in regard to the discussions which he had recently with the British Paymaster-General, he is satisfied that if the Seven-Nation plan goes ahead this country will still be in a position to carry out bilateral trade agreements governing industry, and particularly agriculture, with Great Britain?
Certainly. There is no suggestion of any interference with bilateral arrangements with these countries. The Free Trade area which it is contemplated may result from the Stockholm discussions does not involve the same obligations as the Rome Treaty in respect of uniform external tariffs.
Will the Taoiseach say whether, since he made the statement on the Estimate for the Department of Industry and Commerce, he has since received an invitation to participate in the Scandinavian talks: and, secondly, whether the discussions which took place in London revolve around the revision of the 1938 and 1948 Trade Agreements with the British Government?
We have not received an invitation to participate in the talks at Stockholm; and the discussions in London were, as I have said, exploratory only.