A Joint Action was adopted on 15 July 1996 (1), which calls on Member States to ensure that a number of
behaviours such as public dissemination or distribution of tracts, pictures or other material containingexpressions of racism and xenophobia are punishable as a criminal offence or failing that, to derogate fromthe principle of double criminality for such behaviour. Each Member State should bring forwardappropriate proposals to implement the joint action for consideration by the competent authorities witha view to their adoption. It seems from the information provided by the Honourable Member that theItalian law prohibits the sale of fascist symbols. It would therefore be for the Italian authorities to take anynecessary measures to ensure an effective implementation of the legislation adopted in line with therequirements of the joint action.
(1) OJ L 185, 24.7.1996.
(2000/C 27 E/194) WRITTEN QUESTION P-1657/99
by María Izquierdo Rojo (PSE) to the Commission
(14 September 1999)
Subject: Catastrophic losses in northern Granada
On 4 September 1999 one of the least-favoured rural areas of the province of Granada suffered huge
losses in a violent downpour accompanied by whirlwinds. The damage caused has been estimated at morethan ESP 1 billion.
The olive, almond, maize and vegetable crops in the areas affected, namely the municipalities of Freila,
Zujar, Benamaurel, Cullar and Baza, were almost totally destroyed and major damage was caused to bothhousing and infrastructure. These events have compounded the already difficult situation in an area inwhich 80 % of the population is living in poverty and which, in economic terms, falls far below theCommunity average.
Given the great confidence which those affected have in the Community and the fact that they are
European citizens and support the macro-technological programmes administered by the Commission,and in view of the wide range of possibilities for Structural Fund intervention in the agricultural and ruraldevelopment spheres, how does the Commission intend to bring assistance to the area affected?
Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission
(5 October 1999)
The Commission wishes to manifest its full solidarity with the people of Andalusia who suffered serious
losses and damage in the storm that hit the province of Granada on 4 September 1999.
To help remedy the situation the Spanish authorities (Andalusian regional government and national
government) may under the partnership arrangements wish to decide with the Commission that some ofthe Community funds assigned to Andalusia from the Structural Funds be used for restoration of thedamaged infrastructure.
(2000/C 27 E/195) WRITTEN QUESTION P-1658/99
by Arlindo Cunha (PPE-DE) to the Commission
(14 September 1999)
Subject: Berlin statement on the specific nature of Portuguese agriculture
The Berlin European Council, held on 24-26 March 1999, issued a statement (point 25 of the presidency
conclusions) recognising the need to improve the balance of the support granted to [Portuguese]agriculture by means of rural development measures, financed by EAGGF Guarantee.
Bearing in mind that the rural development programmes of each Member State are now being studied with
a view to their adoption, could the Commission give details of the Portuguese programme, especially asregards the budget funds to be earmarked in the light of the above statement and the related implementingmeasures?29.1.2000 EN C 27 E/159 Official Journal of the European Communities