E.E.C. Decision Still Distant

Press, Volume CI, Issue 29739, 5 February 1962, Page 13

E.E.C. Decision Still Distant

(N .Z J 3. A.-Reuter—Copyright)

BRUSSELS, February 3. Britain was unlikely to get a clear indication until the (northern) autumn of whether she would be able to join the Common Market, sources close to the “Six” said today.

The sources said the British desire for a firm indication by July or August was considered over-optimistic, in spite of the fact that real negotiations, as distinct from statistical studies, appear to be in the offing. That was the picture after this week's negotiations in Brussels on Britain's entry, in which the central point was the association with the market of African and West Indian members of the Commonwealth.

The question was discussed in spite of an initial French objection that it would be pointless until the “Six” had a clearer idea of the new convention with those States already associated —mainly former French colonies — which is due to come into effect next January 1. The French wanted to postpone discussions until April or May. but were reported to have been overruled by their five Market partners. British View

The chief British delegate (Sir Pierson Dixon) said the Commonwealth countries to be associated with the Market should not be given an inferior status to the existing associates as this would perpetuate the division of English and French speaking Africa. Informed sources said Britain had advocated a product-bv-oroduct solution of the problems of associated countries and territories She said the external tariff for tea and cocoa should be abolished, while an international agreement should be reached for other products such as coffee. For certain

other products Britain proposed that a reduction of tariff preferences should be compensated by production subsidies At the next meeting on Wednesday, problems concerning exports of manufactured goods from India, Pakistan and Hong Kong are due for discussion A special working group may be set up on this question The officials also are due to work out the procedure for the discussion of agriculture This will be on the agenda for the first time at the ministerial meeting on February 22.