TNAG-0386-FCO40-432-Exports-of-non-cotton-textiles-from-Hong-Kong-to-the-EEC-1973 — Page 16

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DRAFT TELEGRAM TO HONG KONG

1. The subject of the mandate for non-cotton negotiations with Hong Kong was put, late in the day, on the agenda for the textiles meeting on 17 and 18 May (Brussels Tel 2517). The item was not reached.

2.

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Ridley and Lowne learned in private discussion with the Dutch that the main initiative for inclusion of the item came from the Commission, though the Dutch were very willing to acquiesce.

3.

The Dutch (Tiemensma; van Bruin: van der Berg) explained their difficulties. In short, if nothing happens to relieve the situation in Holland, they will have to keep up the pressure for an immediate Community mandate.

4. The Dutch have examined the list of 'sensitive' items circulated at the meeting on 16 April and have identified the items on which they are having particular difficulties. These are NIMEXE 60 04 47 - women's girls and infants underwear; 60 05 22 and 24 wool pullovers for men, women, boys, girls; ex 61 03 - mens and boys' pyjamas; 61 02 83 blouses; and 61 03 11 shirts. They referred to Hong Kong's insistence on a 'case' and acknowledged that this is difficult to establish if the Dutch market is lumped in with that of the overall Benelux market. Belgium and Luxemburg, the Dutch hinted, have other ways of dealing with problem imports.

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5. The Dutch made it clear that they would welcome someono from Hong Kong dropping informal discussions f leading to action of sort taken for Germany. They indicated that any action that might be taken would have to cover their partners in Benelux.

6. The Dutch were very clear that if the pressure on their market could be relieved by some Hong Kong move, this would remove from the Netherlands their urgent need to press for an immediate Community mandate. Ridley undertook to pass on the Dutch statements.