asked the Taoiseach what contribution this country is making or can make to the discussions on the proposal for a wider trading area in Europe, which will also embrace the United States and Canada.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Trading Area in Europe.
5.
At an informal meeting held in Paris on 14th January, the twenty Governments members of, or associated with, the Organisation for European Economic Co-operation decided to constitute themselves, together with the European Economic Community, a Committee for purposes of examining problems of commercial policy of particular concern to them. This examination is to cover, as a matter of priority, the relationship between the European Economic Community and the European Free Trade Association, with due regard to the commercial interests of third countries and the principles and obligations of the GATT.
The Committee so constituted has not yet met and it is thus not possible at this stage to say anything about its discussions. The Government, however, welcome the establishment of the Committee and are at present examining the various aspects of the problems with which it will deal.
Can the Taoiseach say when the Committee will meet?
Sometime towards the end of this month.