394.31/4—451: Telegram
The Acting Chairman of the United States Delegation to the Torquay Conference (Corse) to the Secretary of State
650. Re Deltel 646, rptd London 253 and Paris for OSR 65. Fol is text press statement approved CP’s for release Apr 3:
Problem of the disparity of European tariffs.
Special session of CP’s was held Torquay from Mar 29 to Apr 3 under chairmanship of Melander, Norway, Chairman CP’s.
[Page 1372]CP’s had under consideration memorandum from reps at Torquay conference of Austria, the Belgo-Lux, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden and US on subject disparities in level European tariffs.
It was submitted in memorandum that tariff reduction resulting Torquay negots, altho expected to be significant, wld not be of such scope and magnitude as to represent sufficient contribution to reduction of existing disparities in level of European tariffs.
Memorandum went on to propose procedures for study of question within scope of gen agreement and requested the CP’s shld meet in order to set up WP to consider problem in interval before the sixth session of CP’s which is due to convene on 17 Sept 1951.
After thorough consideration of matter in course of special session the contracting parties resolved to invite above-mentioned countries to submit proposals for multilateral or other procedures designed achieve on non-discriminatory basis reduction of disparities in tariffs of European countries concerned, taking into account to extent necessary disparities in economic and social structure of different countries.
CP’s also agreed to establish intersessional WP with fol terms ref:
- (a)
- To consider, in light of their compatibility with the general principles of GATT, proposals submitted in response to above invitation and to formulate such recommendations as may be necessary to fit proposals into framework of GATT.
- (b)
- To consider problems that may arise in relation to securing adequate compensation from such other countries as may be likely benefit from non-discriminatory extension to them of arrangements proposed.
- (c)
- To review the continuing efficacy of the negotiating procedures, as tested in conferences held at Geneva, Annecy and Torquay and to recommend such adjustments or adaptations as may appear desirable and practical to improve opportunities of countries with relatively low tariffs to negotiate for reduction of rates by countries with relatively high tariffs.
The membership of WP, which will hold its first mtg at Geneva, comprises Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Cuba, Denmark, France, India, Netherlands, Italy, South Africa, Sweden, United Kingdom and United States. The UP [WP] will elect its own chair-man.
Sent Dept 650; rptd info London 256, Paris 66 for OSR.