asked the Taoiseach if, in view of the recent agreement signed at Stockholm and the unlikely resumption of the Paris talks concerning the introduction of a Free Trade area, he is in a position to say what further action will be taken to associate this country with the proposed new arrangement agreed at Stockholm; and if any action will be taken to safeguard our trading interests arising out of these developments.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Free Trade Area: Stockholm Agreement.
4.
The Deputy will be aware that the Government's view is that association with the European Free Trade Association would not be likely to confer any advantages on this country that would be commensurate with the obligations which we would be required to undertake. The text of the Convention will be carefully studied, with particular reference to its possible effects on our trading interests.
The Government have under active consideration our foreign trading relations generally. As the House is aware, negotiations are in progress with Britain, our most important trading associate.
Is the Taoiseach in a position to say whether, in view of the fact that the Paris negotiations are not likely to resume, any action will be taken to associate this country with the new trading arrangements?
I think my reply deals with the point of that supplementary question also. The text of the agreement signed in Stockholm last week is being studied so that full understanding of its significance will be achieved. Certainly the conclusions reached so far are that there would be little advantage to this country in participating in the agreement.
Does it follow from that that this country will be excluded from either of the proposed trading arrangements that have come into being, either the Six or the Outer Seven?
It is not a question of exclusion. It is a question of whether we would wish to join.
The Taoiseach mentioned that negotiations are proceeding with our principal trading partner. Is the Taoiseach in a position, as yet, to say when he expects that these negotiations will be resumed at Ministerial level?
I cannot answer that question at present.
Not even approximately?