Mandate? Based on what?

THE EDITOR: I have read in the daily newspaper that the Prime Minister who is making a plea for deeper Caribbean integration, told the members of the San Fernando East Constituency of the PNM that integration is no longer optional but mandatory. He added “As we continue to talk about political integration with Grenada, St Vincent and the Grenadines, we are not doing anything without a mandate from the people.” My cardinal question is — On what information are the people going to give a mandate?

Is the aim of the integration to eliminate trade restrictions by action in the following areas with the objectives of implementing common economic, monetary and foreign policies for all member countries?
1) Progressive opening up of Government and public body contractors on an equal basis. 2) Integration regulations and standards so that products approved in any one country can be marketed throughout the community without being subject to import tariffs and taxes. 3) More competitive and efficient integration wide services in telecommunications and information technology. 4) Competition on air routes should increase, and airfares should be lower. 5) Protection of ideas would become easier through consensus of laws on patent and trademarks. 6) Professional qualifications obtained in any member country would be acceptable in all other countries. 7) To provide banking and investment services anywhere in the community and all restrictions on the movement of capital would end?
What are the likely problems that may be generated from the political integration? Trinidad will have to be aware of and ready to deal with the following:1) Changes in Company law and Standards and emergence of non tariff barriers. 2) Competitors will enter the market to establish or enhance their share, or will join with others to obtain a greater market share?What about factors which should be noted in exporting?
a) Should product range be modified and adapted to the new markets. b) Objectives should be carefully communicated and understood by all Heads of the integration movement or union. c) Shouldn’t a clear idea be needed of the cost of an operation as well as the reward? d) What about the need for a quick response in the decision making. e) Shouldn’t centralisation be considered as a result of carefully determined strategic needs?

HARRY P T CHARLIE
Princes Town