TNAG-0045-FCO40-81-Britain-s-entry-into-EEC-effect-on-trade-with-Hong-Kong-1967 — Page 152

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harm essential interests.

But we have not asked Commonwealth

Governments for their views on what constitute their essential

interests. It is envisaged that this should be done through

consultations if, as a result of the probing visits, the prospects

of a successful negotiation seem favourable. Consultations

would therefore precede a definite decision to open negotiations

The method of consultations has not yet been determined but it

would vary from country to country.

In

11. At this stage, therefore, it is important to remind

Commonwealth Governments of Ministerial statements to the effect

that we would be ready to enter the Community provided essential

British and Commonwealth interests were safeguarded.

particular, the communique issued after the meeting of

Commonwealth Prime Ministers in September 1966 contains the

following passage:

The British Government stated that they would make

available the maximum information possible to other

Commonwealth Governments on the progress of

exploratory discussions and would at all stages of

any negotiations consult closely with other

Commonwealth Governments.

The communique added:

12.

The Heads of Government noted this assurance and

stressed the importance of consultations at all

stages of exploratory talks, discussions and

negotiations. The hope was expressed that the

interests of developing countries would receive

special attention during the se talks,

We are keeping Commonwealth Governments informed of

developments both through our High Commissioners and through

the Commonwealth Liaison Committee in London.

13. Background notes on each country are attached.

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