DSR 11C
3. A fuller analysis of the approach of the main LDC and
NIC suppliers, and an assessment of the strength of their
combined front would help us form a view on whether a
hard line by developed countries would be likely to spill
over into other disputes to the detriment of the EC in
general and the UK in particular. Some LDCs may have a
strong interest in seeing an MFA extension which
continues to give them assured levels of access, while
NICS such as Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore and South Korea
stand most to gain from a speedy return to full
liberalisation.
The paper could usefully expand on this
point i.e will the latter want to make a break for full
liberalisation now? Can their needs be reconciled with
the LDCs and will they see greater liberalisation in
textiles as a quid pro quo for our parallel demands, e.g.
on removal of high tariff barriers? The paper should
also consider whether we could accept with equanimity a
further squeeze on Hong Kong following the agreement with
China on the colony's future.
4. The second area where the paper could usefully be
fleshed out is in analysing the negotiating aims of our
EC partners. The Danes and Dutch are identified in the
paper as favouring a more liberal regime, but little is
said of the others, As you know we have asked EC posts
to look into this point (FCO telnos 46 and 50 to UKRep
Brussels refer).
5. Thirdly, since we do not negotiate alone, the paper should reflect that our objectives need to be tempered
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