17 August 2000 Media Statement
Singapore treaty text agreed
A text for the Closer Economic Partnership agreement with Singapore has been agreed, Trade Negotiations Minister Jim
Sutton said today.
Mr Sutton said he would now submit the text and a national interest analysis to Cabinet and ask for authority to for the
Closer Economic Partnership agreement to be signed.
After Cabinet has considered the agreement it will be tabled in the House and referred to the Foreign Affairs, Defence,
and Trade select committee for consideration.
He said that in the past there had been no debate once the select committee had reported back to the house on earlier
trade agreements, but there could be a debate on the agreement with Singapore.
"Personally, I would be happy if there was a debate."
ENDS