asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on whether European unity is more likely to be achieved by the Council of Europe than by the EC; and if he will make a statement on the Government's intended action with regard to the application of Hungary for membership of the Council of Europe.
Written Answers. - European Unity.
57.
The question of whether the Council of Europe is likely to contribute more than the EC to the achievement of European unity does not arise as they are separate organisations with different functions and capacities and differing roles to play in the process of European integration. Both organisations have responded rapidly and positively to the process of domestic reform and democratisation under way in certain Eastern Europe countries. The Council of Europe has sought on its part to develop progressively its contacts and co-operation with a number of those countries and that policy resulted in the submission last week by Hungary of a formal application for full membership.
The Government welcome Hungary's application for Council of Europe membership, which is expected to set the pace and pattern for other Eastern European countries. Indeed, it is gratifying to note that Poland has since indicated that it intends to apply for Council of Europe membership in due course. I was present at the meeting of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe on 16 November 1989 at which Hungary submitted its request to join. The committee took note of Hungary's request with satisfaction and agreed to initiate the examination of the request in accordance with the Council's Statute. In the circumstances, the question of the Government taking any action with regard to the application of Hungary for membership of the Council of Europe does not arise.