N.Z. Delegation For E.E.C. Talks

Press, Volume C, Issue 29609, 4 September 1961, Page 14

N.Z. Delegation For E.E.C. Talks

(New Zealand Press Association)

WELLINGTON, Sept. 3.

The New Zealand delegation for this month’s Common Market consultations with the United Kingdom will be ted by Mr E. L. Greensmith. Secretary to the Treasury, it was announced by the Prime Minister (Mr Holyoake). Mr Greensmith will be assisted by Mr G. D. L White, Deputy High Commissioner in London, Mr K. L. Press, commercial councillor, and other officials of the High Commissioner’s Office m London. The talks will be at official level.

"Our High Commissioner (Mr T. L. McDonald) will be available for any representations which might become necessary during the course of the consultations,’’ Mr Holyoake said.

“The Minister of Finance (Mr Lake) will also be in London at the time of the consultations and will be having discussions with the United Kingdom Chancellor of the Exchequer on a variety of questions including points arising out of the consultations among officials which may require further clarification.

“Mr Lake will ’ also be available to make any representations to the appropriate United Kingdom ministers which may be called for.”

Referring to Thursday’s statement by the Minister of Overseas Trade (Mr Marshall), the Prime Minister said the London consultations, beginning about MidSeptember, were of particular importance as they were to take place shortly before the United Kingdom was expected to open negotiations with the European Economic Community. “At these discussions we will be hearing the United Kingdom’s views on their approach to their negotiations with the Six and we will be putting forward New Zealand’s views on matters in which we have an interest.” he said.

Mr Holyoake said there would also be a need for continuous consultations with the United Kingdom during al! stages of the negotiations with the European Economic Community.