TNAG-0044-FCO40-80-Exports-to-the-Benelux-countries-aide-memoires-1967 — Page 19

1

10

5

True

to the Benelux countries). It includes Hong Kong although

£xerci a tónde

in practice the Hong Kong Government conducts an

and

nabislite of delegated control de economi poking

independent economic poli negotiates its own trade arrangements. Hence, under the Anglo-French Agreed Minute

pradzix

the United Kingdom by tacit agreement does not negotiate

specific quotas for trade between Hong Kong and France

and the French Overseas Territories. Hong Kong can however

benefit from cer ain global quotas fixed under the Anglo

French Agreed Minute.

5.

Effect of the inclusion of Overseas Territories

Under the terms of the draft it would be possible to

apply the framework of the Agreed Minute to trade between

United Kingdom Overseas Territories and the Benelux countries

as well as to trade between the United Kingdom Overseas

Territories and the Benelux overseas territories (i.e.

Surinam and the Netherlands Antilles). It would in

particular entitle the United Kingdom to cnsultation under

para raphs 4 or 6 of the draft Agre d Minute (see detailed

briefs below) in the event of any problems arising in

trade between a United Kingdom Overseas Territory and the

Benelux countries.

6. Line to be taken in the discussions

We should make it clear that the purpose of the

inclusion of United Kingdon Overseas Territories is primarily

a tidying up exercise and that we envisage no change in

practice.

[

If the Benelux countries seek further clarification

we could offer to include in the exchange of letters a

paragraph indicating that it was not our intention to apply

the Agreed Kinute to Hong Kong Benelux trade but reserving

our right to consult under paragraphs 4 and 6 of the draft

should difficulties arise. If the Benelux countries seen

inclined to make this a sticking point we need not insist

but could either

/(a)