2
that in any alignment of GPS between the U.K. and the Six, it would be to Hong Kong's advantage if textiles were excluded altogether, as in the present British scheme.
4.
Mr. Rippon was asked whether French restrictions on Hong Kong's imports would continue to be rigidly applied after our accession. Mr. Rippon explained that the Community was moving towards a common commercial policy within which questions of restrictive practices would undoubtedly arise. He pointed out that without Britain in the Community there was no guarantee that other members of the Community would adopt practices as restrictive as those of the French.
5.
The question of Hong Kong's future relationship with the Community and the GATT was also raised. Mr. Rippon said that it would be better for the present informal but efficient arrangements to continue. If, however, they proved impractical after accession some new machinery might need to be considered. Hong Kong's representation in Brussels should be maintained but it would not be to Hong Kong's advantage for this to form part of the British representation in the Community. On the GATT, Mr. Rippon said that this was under review in London. Mr. Rippon also explained the details of the British representation in Brussels after enlargement although he emphasised that the actual appointments to the Commission would have to wait on the announcement of the Commissioners
from each country.
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