asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if his attention has been drawn to the British White Paper on Membership of the EEC; if he has noted the reference to industry and trade; in what way membership will affect Irish industry and the numbers at present employed in Irish industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Membership of EEC.
44.
The British White Paper gives what is described as "a very rough estimate" of the impact effects (e.g. a reduction of the competitiveness of British industrial producers as a result of increased wage levels) on industry and trade, of entry into EEC. On the other hand, the White Paper indicates that it has not been found possible to qualify "the dynamic effects" resulting from assuming membership of the much larger and faster growing market of the EEC. The implications for Irish industry of our becoming a member of the EEC will be set out in the White Paper which is expected to be published by the Government at the end of March.