I was interested in the comments of the former Minister and Deputy, Mr. Alan Dukes, who asked why 13 countries wanted to join the European Union. He was referring to the ten countries of central and eastern Europe along with Malta, Cyprus and Turkey and I welcome the fact that they have all applied. He made the point about the eight countries of central and eastern Europe coming from a different background. He referred to the fact that these countries might be escaping the Soviet political domination and looking for independence, particularly political independence which they would cherish. Their best guarantee of political independence is to join the European Union. They wish to become part of a highly successful economic and political entity and membership gives them influence over the activities of the European Union.