7 MARCH 1969, Page 25

Sir: Mr Bruce-Gardyne writes (28 February) that 'at the height

of the original Brussels nego- tiations in 1961-62 business contacts between the British and French delegations simply did not exist.'

This is `simply' completely at variance with the facts.

Eric Roll D2 Albany, Piccadilly, London WI

Jock Bruce-Gardyne writes: It is indeed re- assuring to have Sir Eric's affirmation on this point. As a regular observer at these lengthy neRotiations I can only recall the number of occasions on which one was told that it was 'a waste of time' for members of the British dele- gation to discuss anything with the French —from which one was bound to conclude, and indeed one was expected to conclude, that time was mosso wasted.