asked the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Energy the action that is being taken to obtain better access for Irish goods to the Japanese market comparable to that enjoyed by Japan in Ireland and throughout the EEC and in particular to obtain a removal of the non-tariff barriers in Japan.
Written Answers. - Irish Exports to Japan.
298.
One of the principal objectives of the current round of multilateral trade negotiatios under GATT auspices, the "Tokyo Round", is the achievement of an expansion and a greater liberalisation of world trade. In pursuance of this objective the European Community is engaged in the negotiation of a formula for the reduction of tariffs and is taking part in the appropriate procedures aimed at the dismantling of non-tariff barriers. Japan is a participant in these negotiations.
In addition, bilateral consultations between the Community and Japan have been taking place on a continuing basis with a view to the removal of trade barriers and the securing of better access for Community goods to the Japanese market. The Council of Ministers at their most recent meeting on 7 February 1978 discussed this matter and it was agreed that high level consultations between the Presidency, the Commission and the Japanese authorities should be intensified.
Every effort is made to ensure that this country's trading interests with Japan are taken into account in the aforementioned multilateral negotiations and bilateral consultations.