‘Lack Of Frankness In Talks With N.Z.’

Press, Volume C, Issue 29685, 1 December 1961, Page 22

‘Lack Of Frankness In Talks With N.Z.’

(New Zealand Press Association)

WELLINGTON, Nov. 30. The manner in which the statement of the Lord Privy Seal (Mr Heath) to the European Economic Community Council of Ministers in Brussels on October 10 had become available to New Zealand emphasised the lack of frankness shown by the British Government, which had pledged itself to keep New Zealand fully informed and consulted, said the Federation of Labour president (Mr F. P. Walsh) today. If this was an example of how a pledge was honoured he did not think New Zealand could place any reliance on other pledges given, including those of the British Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations (Mr Sandys), •‘that the British Government would protect the vital interest at New Zealand,” said Mr Walsh. “Britain is in a dilemma today,” said Mr Walsh, “and I think she will solve the problem. but only at the expense of New Zealand and the other Commonwealth countries. “I do not see any way in which Britain can fully safeguard our trade and join the E.E.C. Hiis is. I think, clearly shown in Mr Heath's statement.’’ Mr Walsh added: “Mr Heath talks glibly of the Commonwealth producers being given ‘outlets for their produce comparable to those they now enjoy.’

“The outlet we now enjoy is duty-free, unrestricted entry for our produce to the United Kingdom market. “I am certain that no other comparable outlet can be substituted and it is deceitful to hold out the hope that a substitute can be found.”