asked the Taoiseach whether, if the present proposals of the EEC Commission for the establishment of a complete customs union by 1st January, 1967, involving the abolition of all internal duties between members of the EEC, are accepted, the position of this country with regard to the gradual dismantling of protection for industries will remain the same as stated by him to the Committee of Ministers in Brussels.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - EEC: Protection for Industries.
1.
We have proposed to the European Economic Community that a special rhythm of tariff reductions should be agreed in our case which would operate from the date of our accession to the end of the transitional period, that is, the 31st December, 1969, independently of tariff reductions effected by other members of the Community. The matter is one which will be the subject of negotiation in due course.
I assume from what the Taoiseach has said that that proposal was made prior to the announcement that there was a possibility of agreement that there would be tariff reduction by 1967?
It is independent of it.
That proposal was made by the Taoiseach prior to the suggested agreement?
Yes, and what we are seeking is a special rhythm in our own case irrespective of any arrangement the other members may make between themselves.
I appreciate what the Taoiseach said but the rhythm of reduction does not necessarily mean that there will be a change in the total period during which the tariff reduction would be effected?
That is so. We are seeking a special rhythm applicable to ourselves to the 1st January, 1970.
That is a rhythm of reduction but what I am asking is will there be any hope of an extended period from 1967, if that is agreed upon?
The reference to 1967 does not arise in this connection at all. What I have said is that we have proposed that a special rhythm will operate between the date of our accession and the end of the transitional period, that is, December, 1969, as prescribed in the Rome Treaty, and which will be applicable in our case only.
Does the Taoiseach believe that we may not have to reduce tariffs by 1970?
I believe that we will be able to negotiate a special rhythm for the period until 1970.
Does the Taoiseach consider he will be able to negotiate that agreement within the confines of full membership?
Yes.