TNAG-0248-FCO40-284-Effect-of-entry-of-UK-into-EEC-on-exports-from-Hong-Kong-1970 — Page 74

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was at that time viewed with considerable suspicion by

some African Commonwealth countries as a form of neo-colonialism,

and they were reluctant to contemplate applying for it.

28. In 1964 Part IV Association was replaced, in the

case of independent African countries, by the first Yaounde

Convention (see paragraph 12 above). At the time of signature

of the Convention, the EEC Council of Ministers issued

their Declaration of Intent (see paragraphs 15-18 above).

29. Since then Nigeria has concluded a limited association

agreement with the Community, which was never ratified

and has since lapsed. Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania have

negotiated two successive association agreements which,

however, unlike the Yaounde Convention, have no aid

provisions. Ghana, Sierra Leone and The Gambia have all

shown some interest in association with the EEC. The attitude

of a number of African Commonwealth Governments has therefore

undergone a marked change since 1962.

30. West Indian Ministers are now giving careful study

to the question of association with the EEC. They are

concerned that, even under an association agreement,

certain problems will arise over commodities such as

sugar, bananas, citrus, rum and cigars. This is because

the Yaounde Convention did not grant duty free entry into

the Community for a range of processed agricultural

products to associated states.

31. No assurance has been given by Ministers to the Caribbean

Governments to safeguard their interests in citrus, rum or

tobacco. Commonwealth imports of these products into the

UK will be affected by whatever arrangements Britain

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/makes