Source: EURLEX
Language: en
Format: md

# Official Journal ISSN 0378-6986
##### C 217

Volume 40

## of the European Communities

#### English edition Information and Notices

17 July 1997

Notice No Contents Page

I Information

European Parliament

Written Questions with answer

( 97 /C 217 / 01 ) E - 1972 / 95 by Alexandros Alavanos to the Council
Subject : Democratic legitimacy and transparency of the Europol Convention 1

( 97 / C 217 / 02 ) E-3641 / 95 by Marco Pannella to the Council
Subject : Evaluation and possible revision of EU policy on drugs 1

( 97 / C 217 / 03 ) E-07 17 / 96 by Yiannis Roubatis to the Council
Subject : Involvement of Turkey in the distribution and production of drugs 2

( 97 / C 217 / 04 ) E-0798 / 96 by Hartmut Nassauer to the Council
Subject : Convention on the protection of the European Communities ' financial interests, adopted on 26 July 1995 3

( 97 / C 217 / 05 ) E-1590 / 96 by Reimer Böge to the Commission
Subject : Observance of plant variety protection agreements in the associated countries ( Supplementary answer ) 3

( 97 / C 217 / 06 ) E-1668 / 96 by Giacomo Santini and Antonio Tajani to the Council
Subject : Special aid for cattle farmers 4

( 97 / C 217 / 07 ) E - 1787 / 96 by Johanna Maij-Weggen to the Council
Subject : Late dispatch of Council documents to participating ministers 5

( 97 / C 217 / 08 ) E - 1842 / 96 by David Bowe to the Commission
Subject : Demeton-S . Methyl ( Supplementary answer ) 6

( 97 / C 217 / 09 ) E - 1870 / 96 by Michl Ebner to the Council
Subject : Compulsory vaccination in Italy 6

( 97 / C 217 / 10 ) E-2274 / 96 by Yannos Kranidiotis to the Council
Subject : The situation in Myanmar 7

( 97 / C 217 / 11 ) E-3534 / 96 by Yannos Kranidiotis to the Council
Subject : The situation in Myanmar ( Burma ) 7

Joint answer to Written Questions E-2274 / 96 and E-3534 / 96 8

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E-2366 / 96 by Thomas Megahy to the Commission
Subject : EMU and unemployment in construction ( Supplementary answer )

E-2549 / 96 by Amedeo Amadeo to the Council

Subject : The Internet

E-2683 / 96 by Jose Valverde Lopez to the Commission
Subject : Moves by the Junta de Andalucia to exclude the municipalities of Sanlúcar de Barrameda and Trebujena
from the Donana Regional Coordination Plan ( Supplementary answer )

E-2822 / 96 by Amedeo Amadeo to the Council

Subject : Elections in Bosnia

E-2831 / 96 by Gerhard Schmid to the Commission

Subject : Redefinition of areas assisted as part of the joint task entitled ' Improvement of Regional Economic
Structures ' ( Supplementary answer )

E-2947 / 96 by Undine-Uta Bloch von Blottnitz to the Council
Subject : Species protection — clarification of the EU 's position with regard to CITES

E-2948 / 96 by Undine-Uta Bloch von Blottnitz to the Council

Subject : Species protection — clarification of the EU 's position with regard to CITES

Joint answer to Written Questions E-2947 / 96 and E-2948 / 96

E-3063 / 96 by Eryl McNally to the Commission
Subject : Grants relating to the 1993 European Year of Older People and Solidarity between Generations

E-3074 / 96 by Pieter Dankert to the Commission

Subject : Bridge over the Tagus / Cohesion Fund

E-3078 / 96 by Wolfgang Kreissl-Dörfler to the Commission

Subject : Beef

E-31 19 / 96 by Hiltrud Breyer to the Council

Subject : Health hazards inherent in glyphosate-resistant soya beans

E-3493 / 96 by Hiltrud Breyer to the Council

Subject : Transgenic soya beans

Joint answer to Written Questions E-31 19 / 96 and E-3493 / 96

E-31 21 / 96 by Hiltrud Breyer to the Council

Subject : Enzyme preparations produced by genetic engineering

E-31 23 / 96 by Hiltrud Breyer to the Council
Subject : Genetically modified rape produced by PGS

E-3467 / 96 by Hiltrud Breyer to the Council

Subject : Safety precautions in FACTT experiments

E-3469 / 96 by Hiltrud Breyer to the Council

Subject : FACTT project and genetically modified rape-seed

E-3471 / 96 by Hiltrud Breyer to the Council
Subject : Expenditure on the FACTT project

E-3473 / 96 by Hiltrud Breyer to the Council
Subject : FACTT and liability

Joint answer to Written Questions E-3 1 23 / 96, E-3467 / 96, E-3469 / 96, E-3471 / 96 and
E-3473 / 96

E-31 3 1 / 96 by Jose Valverde Lopez to the Commission

Subject : UK stock of feed possibly carrying BSE

( 97 / C 217 / 31 ) E-3 146 / 96 by Fernando Fernandez Martin to the Commission

Subject : Towards sustainable development in the Canaries ( Supplementary answer )

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E-3422 / 96 by Amedeo Amadeo to the Council
Subject : Exploitation of child labour . . . 22

E-3466 / 96 by Hiltrud Breyer to the Commission
Subject : Legal basis of the FACTT project 23

E-3485 / 96 by Jose Barros Moura to the Commission
Subject : The environment and the Alqueva project 24

E-3545 / 96 by Jesus Cabezón Alonso to the Council
Subject : Peaceful transition in Cuba 25

E-3551 / 96 by Jesus Cabezón Alonso and Juan Colino Salamanca to the Commission
Subject : Tax harmonization and welfare funding 25

E-3552 / 96 by Jesus Cabezón Alonso and Juan Colino Salamanca to the Commission
Subject : Tax harmonization and the regions 25

Joint answer to Written Questions E-3551 / 96 and E-3552 / 96 25

E-3574 / 96 by Angela Billingham to the Commission
Subject : Leather measurement standards 26

E-35 82 / 96 by Frederik Willockx to the Commission
Subject : Taking part in procedures for the award of contracts to implement assignments 27

E-3583 / 96 by Johanna Maij-Weggen and Arie Oostlander to the Council
Subject : Netherlands reservations concerning Enfopol Document 1 59 of 6 November 1 996 27

E-3595 / 96 by Frank Vanhecke to the Commission
Subject : Participation by European citizens in elections to the European Parliament in Member States of which they
are not nationals 28

E-3640 / 96 by Jean - Yves Le Gallou to the Commission
Subject : Budget heading B3-440 : Combating drug abuse 29

E-3760 / 96 by Amedeo Amadeo to the Commission
Subject : Airport network 30

E-3761 / 96 by Amedeo Amadeo to the Commission
Subject : Mountainous regions 30

E-3768 / 96 by Amedeo Amadeo to the Council
Subject : Economic development 31

E-3926 / 96 by Cristiana Muscardini to the Council
Subject : Crisis in European society 32

E-3928 / 96 by Mair Morgan to the Commission
Subject : EAGGF budget 32

E-3929 / 96 by Mair Morgan to the Commission
Subject : CAP resource allocations 33

E-3932 / 96 by Undine-Uta Bloch von Blottnitz to the Commission
Subject : Chernobyl sarcophagus 34

E-3935 / 96 by Nikitas Kaklamanis to the Commission
Subject : Selection of staff at the EAEMP 35

E-3951 / 96 by Gianni Tamino to the Commission
Subject : Rearing of animals for slaughter — bilateral agreements 35

E-3960 / 96 by Honório Novo to the Commission
Subject : Full utilization of fisheries quotas 36

E-3961 / 96 by Honório Novo to the Commission
Subject : Community funding received by the company RIOPELE 37

( 97 / C 217 / 54 ) E-3962 / 96 by Jose Barros Moura to the Commission

Subject : Water resources in the Iberian Peninsula . . 37

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E-3970 / 96 by Nikitas Kaklamanis to the Commission
Subject : Discrimination against technicians with higher education 38

E-3972 / 96 by Alexandros Alavanos to the Commission
Subject : Wind farm at Marmari ( Evvia ) 39

E-4000 / 96 by Miguel Arias Cañete to the Commission
Subject : Control of the olive oil aid system 39

E-4003 / 96 by Hiltrud Breyer to the Council
Subject : Development of the River Danube 40

E-40 14 / 96 by Ria Oomen-Ruijten to the Commission
Subject : The problem of flooding 40

E-4020 / 96 by Erika Mann to the Commission
Subject : The need for an EU research network policy long-term strategy 41

E-4021 / 96 by Erika Mann to the Commission
Subject : The need for EU policy on research networking . 42

E-4022 / 96 by Erika Mann to the Commission
Subject : The need to facilitate access to cross-border telecommunication services 42

Joint answer to Written Questions E-4020 / 96, E-4021 / 96 and E-4022 / 96 43

E-4030 / 96 by Gerardo Fernández-Albor to the Commission
Subject : Requirements by the United Kingdom that holders of UK fishing licences should speak English 44

E-4031 / 96 by Anne Andre-Leonard to the Commission
Subject : Non-application of sliding-scale compensation in Greece 44

E-4036 / 96 by Daniel Varela Suanzes-Carpegna to the Commission

Subject : Subsidies from the financial mechanism of the European Economic Area ( EEA ) for restoring Europe 's
historic heritage 45

P-4043 / 96 by Honor Funk to the Commission
Subject : Veterinary medicinal product Dimetridazol 46

E-4047 / 96 by Eva Kjer Hansen to the Commission
Subject : Fraud in transit J . 47

E-4050 / 96 by Cristiana Muscardini to the Commission
Subject : Closure of the Nestle factory in Abbiategrasso 48

E-4055 / 96 by Karla Peijs to the Commission
Subject : Distortion of competition by electricity utilities following the proposal to liberalise the electricity market 49

E-4056 / 96 by Jose Barros Moura to the Commission
Subject : Financing of the Alqueva project 50

E.-4057 / 96 by Jose Barros Moura to the Commission
Subject : Financing of the Alqueva project 51

E-4061 / 96 by Nikitas Kaklamanis to the Commission
Subject : Tax on imports of used HGV chassis 52

E-4062 / 96 by Graham Mather to the Commission
Subject : VAT on home care services 53

E-4066 / 96 by Miguel Arias Cañete to the Commission
Subject : Nationality of the official responsible for the proposal on the legal status of the euro 54

E-4067 / 96 by Miguel Arias Cañete to the Commission
Subject : German officials and monetary union 54

( 97 / C 217 / 76 ) E-4068 / 96 by Miguel Arias Cañete to the Commission

Subject : Members of the Legal Service entrusted with the task of drawing up the legal status of the euro 54

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E-4069 / 96 by Miguel Arias Cañete to the Commission
Subject : Members of the Central Banks seconded to work on drawing up the legal status of the euro 54

E-4070 / 96 by Miguel Arias Cañete to the Commission
Subject : Drawing up the legal status of the euro 55

E-4071 / 96 by Miguel Arias Cañete to the Commission
Subject : Article 157(2 ) of the Treaty and monetary union 55

E-4072 / 96 by Miguel Arias Cañete to the Commission
Subject : The Legal Service responsible for the legal status of the euro 55

Joint answer to Written Questions E-4066 / 96, E-4067 / 96, E-4068 / 96, E-4069 / 96,
E-4070 / 96, E-4071 / 96 and E-4072 / 96 55

E-4073 / 96 by Guido Podestà to the Commission
Subject : Mutual recognition of formal qualifications in architecture 56

E-4075 / 96 by Amedeo Amadeo to the Commission
Subject : Telecommunications and postal services 57

E-4079 / 96 by Amedeo Amadeo to the Commission
Subject : Legal protection for encrypted services 57

E-4080 / 96 by Amedeo Amadeo to the Commission
Subject : Legal protection for encrypted services 58

Joint answer to Written Questions E-4079 / 96 and E-4080 / 96 58

E-4081 / 96 by Amedeo Amadeo to the Commission
Subject : Community water policy 58

E-4083 / 96 by Amedeo Amadeo to the Commission
Subject : Fraud 59

E-4092 / 96 by Alex Smith to the Commission
Subject : Euratom Treaty 60

E-4093 / 96 by Patrick Cox to the Commission
Subject : Commissioners ' attendance at meetings 61

E-4094 / 96 by Patrick Cox to the Council
Subject : Ministers ' attendance at Council meetings 62

E-4101 / 96 by Gianni Tamino to the Commission
Subject : Community-funded ' misleading ' advertising to promote the consumption of beef and veal in Italy ... 62

E-41 1 1 / 96 by Siegbert Alber to the Commission
Subject : Europe Agreement of 13 December 1993 between the European Communities ( and their Member States )
and Poland and new import bans in Poland 63

E-41 13 / 96 by Friedhelm Frischenschlager to the Commission
Subject : Changes of distribution in the support for INGYOs 64

E-41 14 / 96 by Friedhelm Frischenschlager to the Commission
Subject : Export premiums for the transport of live animals 65

E-41 16 / 96 by Nikitas Kaklamanis to the Commission
Subject : Abolition of sale of duty-free goods 66

E-4 126 / 96 by María Sornosa Martinez and Laura González Alvarez to the Commission
Subject : Arrival of huge shipments of genetically manipulated soya at European ports 66

P-413 1 / 96 by Luisa Todini to the Commission
Subject : Introduction of ' 117 ' phoneline 67

( 97 / C 217 / 97 ) P-0002 / 97 by Heidi Hautala to the Commission

Subject : Tax exemption for xylitol 68

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E-0022 / 97 by Riitta Myller to the Commission
Subject : Health effects of xylitol 68

Joint answer to Written Questions P-0002 / 97 and E-0022 / 97 69

E-0009 / 97 by Glyn Ford to the Council
Subject : Research Council cancellation 69

E-00 10 / 97 by Anita Pollack to the Commission
Subject : ECVAM and testing on animals 70

E-00 13 / 97 by Mary Banotti to the Commission
Subject : EU social assistance butter scheme 70

E-0015 / 97 by Mary Banotti to the Commission
Subject : Red IFJ card 70

E-00 18 / 97 by Miguel Arias Cañete to the Commission
Subject : Monitoring subsidies in the rice sector 71

E-0020 / 97 by Miguel Arias Cañete to the Commission

Subject : Balance of 75 000 tonnes of rice left over from the maximum quantities laid down for subsidized exports in
the previous marketing year 72

E-0021 / 97 by Miguel Arias Cañete to the Commission
Subject : Crisis in the rice sector 72

E-0023 / 97 by Fernand Herman to the Commission
Subject : Invitations to tender for service contract 73

E-0027 / 97 by Jens-Peter Bonde ( I-EDN ) to the Council
Subject : Secret declarations 73

E-0029 / 97 by Alexandros Alavanos to the Commission
Subject : Extension of natural gas pipeline to western Greece and Albania 74

E-0034 / 97 by Jesus Cabezón Alonso to the Council
Subject : The absence of certain regions in the design of the euro 74

E-0038 / 97 by Riccardo Garosci and Luigi Florio to the Commission
Subject : Fiscal measures to improve the situation in the automobile industry in Europe — and in Italy in particular —
such as concessions for first-time buyers of passenger cars, commercial vehicles and motorcycles 75

P-0043 / 97 by Fernando Moniz to the Commission
Subject : Singapore Conference, WTO and social rights 76

E-0044 / 97 by Günter Lüttge to the Commission

Subject : Further harmonization of road signs in the European Union, in particular on the trans-European road
network 76

E-0045 / 97 by Hartmut Nassauer to the Council
Subject : Progress of ratification of conventions and protocols adopted under Title VI of the Treaty on European
Union 77

E-0051 / 97 by Iñigo Mendez de Vigo to the Commission
Subject : Fisheries agreement with Morocco 78

E-0052 / 97 by Iñigo Mendez de Vigo to the Commission
Subject : Operation of the SIS ( Schengen Information System ) 79

E-0053 / 97 by Iñigo Mendez de Vigo to the Council
Subject : Exclusion of the EP delegation from the OSCE summit 79

E-0055 / 97 by Giuseppe Rauti to the Commission
Subject : Proposal by the Italian Confederation of Agriculture concerning food aid for the Third World 80

E-0056 / 97 by Ria Oomen-Ruijten to the Commission
Subject : European phytosanitary directive 81

( 97 / C 217 / 119 ) E-0061 / 97 by Kenneth Coates to the Commission

Subject : Employment : freedom of movement 82

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E-0064 / 97 by Kenneth Coates to the Commission
Subject : Energy : opencast coalmining 82

E-0066 / 97 by Jaime Valdivielso de Cué to the Commission
Subject : The effective management of products confiscated in line with rules on Community fraud 83

E-0068 / 97 by Florus Wijsenbeek to the Commission
Subject ; Rules on Euro-vignette commissions 84

E-0069 / 97 by Florus Wijsenbeek to the Commission
Subject : Solution for 45-foot containers 85

E-0073 / 97 by Jose Barros Moura to the Commission
Subject : Aims of the structural funds 86

E-0076 / 97 by Karl-Heinz Florenz to the Commission
Subject : Implementation of the Nitrates Directive 86

E-0078 / 97 by Richard Howitt to the Commission
Subject : Environmental management project : Oil production and sustainable development in Amazonian Ecuador
( ECU / B7-301 0 / 94 / 1 30 ) 87

E-0079 / 97 by Richard Howitt to the Commission
Subject : Environmental management project : Oil production and sustainable development in Amazonian Ecuador
( ECU / B7-30 10 / 94 / 130 ) 88

E-0080 / 97 by Richard Howitt to the Commission
Subject : Environmental management project : Oil production and sustainable development in Amazonian Ecuador
( ECU / B7-30 10 / 94 / 130 ) 88

E-0081 / 97 by Richard Howitt to the Commission

Subject : Environmental management project : Oil production and sustainable development in Amazonian Ecuador
( ECU / B7-301 0 / 94 / 1 30 ) 88

E-0082 / 97 by Richard Howitt to the Commission

Subject : Environmental management project : Oil production and sustainable development in Amazonian Ecuador
( ECU / B7-30 10 / 94 / 130 ) 88

Joint answer to Written Questions E-0078 / 97, E-0079 / 97, E-0080 / 97, E-0081 / 97 and
E-0082 / 97 88

E-0083 / 97 by Mark Killilea to the Council
Subject : Guarantee fund for European film production 89

E-0086 / 97 by Mark Killilea to the Commission
Subject : Farm retirement scheme enlargement clause 90

E-0087 / 97 by Mark Killilea to the Commission
Subject : Citizens First programme 90

E-0092 / 97 by David Bowe to the Commission
Subject : Cadmium in batteries 91

E-0093 / 97 by David Bowe to the Commission
Subject : Cadmium in batteries 91

E-0094 / 97 by David Bowe to the Commission
Subject : Cadmium in batteries 92

Joint answer to Written Questions E-0092 / 97, E-0093 / 97 and E-0094 / 97 92

E-0095 / 97 by Carlo Ripa di Meana and Gianni Tamino to the Commission
Subject : Intermodal centre in Olbia ( Sardinia ) 92

E-0096 / 97 by Jose Apolinário to the Commission

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Subject : Barlavento Hospital, Algarve — Portuguese ' health operational programme ( second CSF ) 93

( 97 / C 217 / 139 ) E-0097 / 97 by José Apolinário and Quinídio Correia to the Commission

Subject : Special aid for victims of the severe weather in the Azores 94

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P-0098 / 97 by Jose Apolinário to the Commission
Subject : Waste tip in Aranjuez ( Spain ) 94

P-0101 / 97 by Katerina Daskalaki to the Commission
Subject : Floods in Greece 95

E-0 102 / 97 by Nikitas Kaklamanis to the Commission
Subject : Support for combined modes of transport in the EU 96

E-0 107 / 97 by Alfred Lomas to the Council
Subject : Hostages in Kashmir 96

E-0 109 / 97 by Carlos Robles Piquer to the Council
Subject : Political prisoners in Nigeria 97

E-0 11 0 / 97 by Carlos Robles Piquer to the Commission
Subject : Contributions by non-member countries of CERN 97

E-0 11 1 / 97 by Raimo Ilaskivi to the Commission
Subject : Clarification of the issue of bias in connection with the Commission decision on the so-called Tuko deal 98

P-01 13 / 97 by Jose Pomés Ruiz to the Council
Subject : Compensation for lorry drivers affected by the strike of December 1996 in France 99

E-01 15 / 97 by Nikitas Kaklamanis to the Commission
Subject : Use of asbestos in the Attica water supply network 99

E-01 16 / 97 by Ludivina Garcia Arias to the Commission
Subject : Competition policy and funding of infrastructure for the gas industry in Europe 100

E-01 17 / 97 by Ludivina Garcia Arias to the Commission
Subject : Competition policy and funding for renewable energy sources in Europe 100

E-0 11 9 / 97 by Gerardo Fernandez - Albor to the Council
Subject : Retirement pensions for housewives 101

E-0 120 / 97 by Gerardo Fernandez - Albor to the Commission
Subject : Establishment of a European toxicological information service 102

E-0 127 / 97 by Gerard Caudron to the Commission
Subject : Fighting alcoholism 103

E-0 130 / 97 by Gerhard Hager to the Commission
Subject : Legal position with regard to regional projects 103

E-01 32 / 97 by Nikitas Kaklamanis to the Commission
Subject : Replacement of old pollutant vehicles in Greece 1 04

E-01 33 / 97 by Nikitas Kaklamanis to the Commission
Subject : Children born with deformities in Bulgaria 105

E-0 135 / 97 by Kirsi Piha to the Commission
Subject : Enlargement of the EU to the east 1 05

E-01 36 / 97 by Gerard d'Aboville to the Commission
Subject : Inclusion of the Atlantic Arc in the development of short sea shipping 1 06

E-0 140 / 97 by Arlindo Cunha to the Commission
Subject : Penalties for exceeding the base areas for arable crops in the last marketing year 107

P-01 42 / 97 by Sebastiano Musumeci to the Commission
Subject : European rangers 108

P-01 43 / 97 by Luigi Caligaris to the Council
Subject : Customs treatment accorded to former Yugoslav republics 108

( 97 / C 217 / 162 ) E-0 147 / 97 by Amedeo Amadeo to the Commission

Subject : Conservation of fishery resources in the Mediterranean . . . : 109

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E-0 148 / 97 by Amedeo Amadeo to the Council
Subject : Solvency ratio for credit institutions 110

E-0 149 / 97 by Amedeo Amadeo to the Commission
Subject : Solvency ratio for credit institutions 110

E-0 154 / 97 by Amedeo Amadeo to the Commission
Subject : Protection of geographical indications Ill

E-0 15 5 / 97 by Amedeo Amadeo to the Council
Subject : Products processed from lemons 112

E-0 161 / 97 by Amedeo Amadeo to the Commission
Subject : Outermost regions and islands 112

E-0 162 / 97 by Amedeo Amadeo to the Commission
Subject : Employment 113

E-0 164 / 97 by Amedeo Amadeo to the Commission
Subject : Innovation 113

E-0 165 / 97 by Amedeo Amadeo to the Commission
Subject : Employment 114

E-01 70 / 97 by Barbara Weiler to the Commission
Subject : Environmental training in industry 115

E-0 17 1 / 97 by Mark Killilea to the Commission
Subject : EU financial assistance to animal rights organizations 116

E-0 173 / 97 by Anita Pollack to the Commission
Subject : Statistics on use of animals in experiments 117

E-0 180 / 97 by Roberta Angelilli and Spalato Belleré to the Commission
Subject : Infringement of free competition on the Italian market in third party motor vehicle insurance 118

E-01 8 1 / 97 by Spalato Belleré to the Commission
Subject : Derailment of a high-speed train on the Milan to Rome line 119

E-01 83 / 97 by Magda Aelvoet to the Commission
Subject : Land consolidation schemes in Antwerp province 119

E-0 184 / 97 by Magda Aelvoet to the Commission
Subject : Land consolidation schemes in Antwerp province 1 20

E-0 185 / 97 by Magda Aelvoet to the Commission
Subject : Land consolidation schemes in Antwerp province 1 20

E-0 186 / 97 by Magda Aelvoet to the Commission
Subject : Land consolidation schemes in Antwerp province 120

Joint answer to Written Questions E-0183 / 97, E-0184 / 97, E-0185 / 97 and E-0186 / 97 ... 121

E-0 187 / 97 by Wilmya Zimmermann to the Commission
Subject : Use of Commission funds to help export European jobs to India 121

E-0 188 / 97 by Mihail Papayannakis to the Commission
Subject : Measures to clean up the river Kifisos 122

E-0 194 / 97 by Nuala Ahern to the Commission
Subject : Safety inspections 123

E-0 196 / 97 by Glenys Kinnock to the Commission
Subject : Commission policies on child labour in India 1 24

E-0202 / 97 by Gianni Tamino to the Commission
Subject : Support for cultural initiatives in prisons 1 24

( 97 / C 217 / 185 ) E-0208 / 97 by Jens-Peter Bonde ( I-EDN ) to the Commission

Subject : Exemptions from satellite surveillance of fisheries 1 25

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E-021 1 / 97 by Glyn Ford to the Commission
Subject : Scientific Committee for Food 1 25

E-021 2 / 97 by Glyn Ford to the Commission
Subject : Firework safety 126

E-02 15 / 97 by Michl Ebner to the Council
Subject : Office of the three Alpine regions — the autonomous province of Bolzano, Trento and the Tyrol — in
Brussels 127

E-02 16 / 97 by Michl Ebner to the Commission

Subject : Office of the three Alpine regions — the autonomous province of Bolzano, Trento and the Tyrol — in
Brussels 127

P-02 18 / 97 by Honório Novo to the Commission
Subject : Amendment of Regulation 3030 / 93 128

E-0220 / 97 by Klaus-Heiner Lehne to the Commission
Subject : Promotion of tourism 129

E-0221 / 97 by Christa KlaB to the Commission
Subject : Legal authenticity of optically stored social security documents 1 30

E-0222 / 97 by Nikitas Kaklamanis to the Commission
Subject : Delays in the passage of lorries across borders 131

E-0223 / 97 by Mark Watts to the Commission
Subject : Road safety : regulations concerning speed limits 132

E-0224 / 97 by Mary Banotti to the Commission
Subject : Regulation of conditional access and related technical services 133

P-0228 / 97 by Salvador Jove Peres to the Commission
Subject : Community tariff quota for barley for malting falling within CN code 1003 00 134

E-0235 / 97 by Glyn Ford to the Council
Subject : Consultative Commission final report 1 35

E-0236 / 97 by Kenneth Collins to the Commission
Subject : Labelling of medicinal products 135

E-0241 / 97 by Gastone Parigi and Amedeo Amadeo to the Commission
Subject : Request for deferred payment of milk quota fines 1 36

P-0243 / 97 by Daniel Varela Suanzes-Carpegna to the Commission
Subject : Freezing of aid for the fishing fleet pending approval of MAGP IV 137

E-0249 / 97 by Daniela Raschhofer to the Commission
Subject : Support funds from the agricultural budget 137

P-0250 / 97 by Felipe Camisón Asensio to the Commission
Subject : Rules ro ensure free competition on the digital-television market 138

P-0251 / 97 by Giovanni Burtone to the Commission
Subject : Alarming situation of Italian milk producers : 139

E-0252 / 97 by Mihail Papayannakis to the Commission
Subject : Restructuring of the Commission 's veterinary services 140

E-0253 / 97 by Nikitas Kaklamanis to the Commission
Subject : Environmental pollution caused by a quarry 141

E-0257 / 97 by Richard Howitt to the Commission
Subject : Citizens ' access to the European Court of Justice 141

E-0260 / 97 by Richard Howitt to the Commission
Subject : Follow-up to the zero tolerance campaign in Thurrock, UK 1 42

( 97 / C 217 / 208 ) E-0261 / 97 by Richard Howitt to the Commission

Subject : Retraining of public sector workers under ADAPT and Objective 4 structural programmes 142

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E-0263 / 97 by Richard Howitt to the Commission
Subject : Control of the international arms trade 143

E-0264 / 97 by Richard Howitt to the Commission
Subject : Training for prospective cooperative businesses in South Essex 144

E-0266 / 97 by Bernie Malone to the Commission
Subject : Discrimination against non-practising teachers by the Department of Education in Ireland 1 44

E-0267 / 97 by Carmen Fraga Estévez to the Commission
Subject : Community rice imports 145

E-0268 / 97 by Carmen Fraga Estévez to the Commission
Subject : Management of rice quotas 145

E-0270 / 97 by Carmen Fraga Estévez to the Commission
Subject : Community rice exports 1 46

E-0272 / 97 by Carmen Fraga Estévez to the Commission
Subject : Fresh and canned tuna from the ACP countries 1 46

E-0276 / 97 by Daniel Varela Suanzes-Carpegna to the Commission
Subject : Current situation of the EU fish canning industry 146

E-0277 / 97 by Daniel Varela Suanzes-Carpegna to the Commission
Subject : Marine biotoxins in fish and seafood 1 47

E-0278 / 97 by Yvan Blot to the Commission
Subject : Defence of tobacco growers in Alsace 147

E-0289 / 97 by Jose Pomés Ruiz to the Commission
Subject : Evaluation reports 148

E-0292 / 97 by Amedeo Amadeo to the Commission
Subject : Fisheries 149

E-0294 / 97 by Amedeo Amadeo to the Commission
Subject : VAT revenue 149

E-0297 / 97 by Amedeo Amadeo to the Commission
Subject : Feta cheese 1 50

E-0299 / 97 by Amedeo Amadeo to the Commission
Subject : Rice-growing regions 151

E-0348 / 97 by Jose García-Margallo y Marfil to the Commission
Subject : CMO for rice : register of cultivated areas 151

Joint answer to Written Questions E-0299 / 97 and E-0348 / 97 151

E-0300 / 97 by Amedeo Amadeo to the Commission
Subject : Cotton market 152

E-0301 / 97 by Amedeo Amadeo to the Commission
Subject : PH ARE and TACIS programmes 153

E-0305 / 97 by Amedeo Amadeo to the Commission
Subject : Social Fund 154

E-0308 / 97 by Niels Kofoed to the Commission

Subject : Implementation of Council Directive 92 / 66 / EEC introducing Community measures for the control of
Newcastle disease 155

E-0309 / 97 by Doris Pack to the Commission
Subject : Development of the internal market in the construction sector 155

E-03 10 / 97 by Alexandros Alavanos to the Commission
Subject : Increase in bogus pharmaceutical products on the world market 156

( 97 / C 217 / 231 ) E-03 14 / 97 by Michele Lindeperg to the Commission

Subject : Commission initiatives on the right to asylum 156

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P-0345 / 97 by Eva Kjer Hansen to the Commission
Subject : Public access to documents of the Community institutions

P-0346 / 97 by John Tomlinson to the Commission
Subject : Accidents suffered by non-resident citizens

P-0347 / 97 by Anne McIntosh to the Commission
Subject : Alternatives to cattle labelling

E-0349 / 97 by Jose García-Margallo y Marfil to the Commission
Subject : CMO for rice : techniques for verifying cultivated areas

E-0350 / 97 by Jose García-Margallo y Marfil to the Commission
Subject : CMO for rice : EAGGF expenditure in Spain

E-0351 / 97 by Jose García-Margallo y Marfil to the Commission

Subject : CMO for rice : EAGGF expenditure in France

E-0352 / 97 by Jose García-Margallo y Marfil to the Commission
Subject : CMO for rice : EAGGF expenditure in Greece

E-0353 / 97 by Jose García-Margallo y Marfil to the Commission
Subject : CMO for rice : EAGGF expenditure in Italy

E-0354 / 97 by Jose García-Margallo y Marfil to the Commission
Subject : CMO for rice : EAGGF expenditure in Portugal

E-0355 / 97 by Jose García-Margallo y Marfil to the Commission

Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on refunds in Spain

E-0356 / 97 by Jose García-Margallo y Marfil to the Commission
Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on refunds in France

E-0357 / 97 by Jose García-Margallo y Marfil to the Commission
Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on refunds in Greece

E-0358 / 97 by Jose García-Margallo y Marfil to the Commission
Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on refunds in Italy

E-0359 / 97 by Jose García-Margallo y Marfil to the Commission
Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on refunds in Portugal

E-0360 / 97 by Jose García-Margallo y Marfil to the Commission
Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on public storage in Spain

E-0361 / 97 by Jose García-Margallo y Marfil to the Commission
Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on public storage in France

E-0362 / 97 by Jose García-Margallo y Marfil to the Commission
Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on public storage in Greece

E-0363 / 97 by Jose García-Margallo y Marfil to the Commission
Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on public storage in Italy

E-0364 / 97 by Jose García-Margallo y Marfil to the Commission

Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on public storage in Portugal

E-0365 / 97 by Jose García-Margallo y Marfil to the Commission
Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on other storage costs in Spain

E-0366 / 97 by Jose García-Margallo y Marfil to the Commission

Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on other storage costs in France

E-0367 / 97 by Jose García-Margallo y Marfil to the Commission
Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on other storage costs in Greece

E-0368 / 97 by Jose García-Margallo y Marfil to the Commission
Subject : CMO for rice : expanditure on other storage costs in Italy

E-0369 / 97 by Jose García-Margallo y Marfil to the Commission

Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on other storage costs in Portugal

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E-0370 / 97 by Jose García-Margallo y Marfil to the Commission
Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure arising from the depreciation of stocks in Spain 1 65

E-0371 / 97 by Jose García-Margallo y Marfil to the Commission
Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure arising from the depreciation of stocks in France 165

E-0372 / 97 by Jose García-Margallo y Marfil to the Commission
Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure arising from the depreciation of stocks in Greece 166

E-0373 / 97 by Jose García-Margallo y Marfil to the Commission
Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure arising from the depreciation of stocks in Italy 1 66

E-0374 / 97 by Jose García-Margallo y Marfil to the Commission
Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure arising from the depreciation of stocks in Portugal 1 66

E-0375 / 97 by Jose García-Margallo y Marfil to the Commission
Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on production aid in Spain 166

E-0376 / 97 by Jose García-Margallo y Marfil to the Commission
Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on production aid in France 1 67

E-0377 / 97 by Jose García-Margallo y Marfil to the Commission
Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on production aid in Greece 167

E-0378 / 97 by Jose García-Margallo y Marfil to the Commission
Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on production aid in Italy 167

E-0379 / 97 by Jose García-Margallo y Marfil to the Commission
Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on production aid in Portugal 167

Joint answer to Written Questions E-0350 / 97, E-0351 / 97, E-0352 / 97, E-0353 / 97,
E-0354 / 97, E-0355 / 97, E-0356 / 97, E-0357 / 97, E-0358 / 97, E-0359 / 97, E-0360 / 97,
E-0361 / 97, E-0362 / 97, E-0363 / 97, E-0364 / 97, E-0365 / 97, E-0366 / 97, E-0367 / 97,
E-0368 / 97, E-0369 / 97, E-0370 / 97, E-0371 / 97, E-0372 / 97, E-0373 / 97, E-0374 / 97,

E-0375 / 97, E-0376 / 97, E-0377 / 97, E-0378 / 97 and E-0379 / 97 168

E-0382 / 97 by Sergio Ribeiro to the Commission
Subject : Cases of occupational disease in the firm Ford Electrónica Portuguesa ( Setubal — Portugal ) 168

P-03 83 / 97 by Annemarie Kuhn to the Commission
Subject : Dumping of beef by the European Union in Africa 1 69

E-03 84 / 97 by Astrid Thors to the Commission
Subject : The Commission 's actions as regards xylitol 170

P-0385 / 97 by Umberto Bossi to the Commission
Subject : Permitted maximum quantity of residues in certain fish species 170

P-03 87 / 97 by Ilona Graenitz to the Commission
Subject : Gen maize 171

E-0390 / 97 by Bernd Lange to the Commission
Subject : Implementation of the ALFA programme 172

E-0393 / 97 by Bernd Lange to the Commission
Subject : 1 996 PHARE ACE programme 173

E-0394 / 97 by Gianfranco Dell ' Alba to the Commission
Subject : Prato freight terminal 173

E-0395 / 97 by Bartho Pronk to the Commission
Subject : Discrimination against EU citizens in Newcomers Assimilation Bill in the Netherlands " 174

P-0397 / 97 by Raimondo Fassa to the Commission
Subject : Approval of NGOs in Italy 175

( 97 / C 217 / 276 ) E-0398 / 97 by Mihail Papayannakis, Paraskevas Avgerinos, Nikitas Kaklamanis and

Konstantinos Hatzidakis to the Commission

Subject : Anti-dumping measures in respect of leather products from China 175

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E-0400 / 97 by Nikitas Kaklamanis to the Commission
Subject : Saving Europe 's musical tradition 176

E-0401 / 97 by Nikitas Kaklamanis to the Commission
Subject : Low compensation rates for exporters of fresh fruit and vegetables 177

E-0404 / 97 by Katerina Daskalaki to the Commission
Subject : Monuments of Knossos in danger of collapsing 178

E-0407 / 97 by Arthur Newens to the Commission
Subject : EU funding for population and reproductive health in the light of ICPD 179

E-04 15 / 97 by Christa Randzio-Plath to the Commission
Subject : Participation by the Commission at the G7 finance meeting on 8 February 1997 179

E-04 16 / 97 by Riccardo Nencini to the Commission
Subject : Stolen works of art 1 80

P-0420 / 97 by Josu Imaz San Miguel to the Commission
Subject : Inclusion of a renovation programme for the Bay of Pasaia ( Basque Country ) in the Community URBAN
initiative 181

P-0424 / 97 by Miguel Arias Cañete to the Commission
Subject : Penalties in the oilseed sector for the 1996-1997 marketing year 1 82

E-0426 / 97 by María Sornosa Martinez, Angela Sierra González and Sérgio Ribeiro to the
Commission

Subject : Situation of women in East Timor 1 82

E-0427 / 97 by Magda Aelvoet and Gianni Tamino to the Commission
Subject : EU aid to the ' CARAPAX ' Centre 183

E-0429 / 97 by Gianni Tamino to the Commission
Subject : Merger of the ' Banca Popolare di Sassari ' and the ' Banca di Sassari Spa ' 184

P-0432 / 97 by Katerina Daskalaki to the Commission
Subject : Operational programme for education ( sub-programmes 3 and 4 ) 1 84

P-0453 / 97 by Mihail Papayannakis to the Commission
Subject : Operational programme for education 1 85

Joint answer to Written Questions P-0432 / 97 and P-0453 / 97 1 85

E-0434 / 97 by Stanislaw Tillich to the Commission
Subject : Participation of CEECs in EU programmes 1 86

E-0436 / 97 by Stanislaw Tillich to the Commission
Subject : Financial support for Saxony during the period 1994-1996 186

E-0437 / 97 by Nikitas Kaklamanis to the Commission
Subject : Turkish settlement of Cyprus 187

E-0438 / 97 by Heidi Hautala to the Commission
Subject : Overlogging at Yamdena island 187

E-0439 / 97 by Olivier Dupuis to the Commission
Subject : Reversing population transfer to the Chittagong Hill Tracts 1 88

E-0440 / 97 by Anita Pollack to the Commission
Subject : Implementing Directive 95 / 29 / EEC on live transport of animals 188

E-0441 / 97 by Anita Pollack to the Commission
Subject : Staff working on forests in DG VIII 1 89

E-0443 / 97 by Anita Pollack to the Commission
Subject ; Radioactive lobsters 190

( 97 / C 217 / 298 ) E-0446 / 97 by Joaquin Sisó Cruellas to the Commission

Subject : Implications of the Bosman judgment 1 90

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E-0450 / 97 by Luciano Vecchi to the Commission

Subject : Damaging consequences for Community citizens owing to the delay in implementing Regulation ( EEC )
No 2080 / 92 in certain Italian regions 191

E-0452 / 97 by Arie Oostlander to the Commission
Subject : Reports on the supply to Iraq of primary products for biological weapons by Netherlands undertakings in
the period 1989-1992 192

P-0454 / 97 by Konstantinos Hatzidakis to the Commission
Subject : Construction of a biological purification plant in Ialysos on Rhodes 193

P-0456 / 97 by Nel van Dijk to the Commission
Subject : Fiscal dumping 193

E-0459 / 97 by Amedeo Amadeo to the Commission
Subject : MED programmes 194

E-0461 / 97 by Amedeo Amadeo to the Commission
Subject : Maximum speed of agricultural or forestry tractors 195

E-0463 / 97 by Amedeo Amadeo to the Commission
Subject : Air traffic management 1 95

E-0464 / 97 by Amedeo Amadeo to the Commission
Subject : Signing of the contract to build the Strasbourg Chamber without prior approval 1 96

E-0467 / 97 by Amedeo Amadeo to the Commission
Subject : Pact for employment 1 96

P-0469 / 97 by Mark Watts to the Commission
Subject : Export of live cattle to third countries 197

P-0471 / 97 by Nikitas Kaklamanis to the Commission
Subject : Humanitarian aid for the Republika Srpska 1 97

P-0472 / 97 by Bernie Mai one to the Commission
Subject : Employment conditions for trainee pilots with Aer Lingus in Ireland 1 98

P-0473 / 97 by Sirkka-Liisa Anttila to the Commission
Subject : Measures necessary to secure the lifting of the ban on the importation of hens ' eggs suitable for human
consumption from Finland into Russia 199

P-0481 / 97 by Jose Pomés Ruiz to the Commission
Subject : Participation of the peseta in EMU 200

P-0482 / 97 by Marilena Marin to the Commission
Subject : Start-up aid for young farmers 200

E-0485 / 97 by Jesus Cabezón Alonso to the Commission
Subject : China and the Guatemala peace agreements 20 1

E-0486 / 97 by Juan Colino Salamanca and Jesus Cabezón Alonso to the Commission
Subject : Fisheries agreement with Morocco 201

E-0503 / 97 by Lucio Manisco to the Commission
Subject : Discrimination against EU citizens in the USA 202

E-0507 / 97 by Luciano Vecchi to the Commission
Subject : Discrimination against Italian citizens applying for admission to universities in the United Kingdom . . 202

E-0509 / 97 by Frank Vanhecke to the Commission
Subject : Development cooperation 203

E-05 10 / 97 by Wilmya Zimmermann to the Commission
Subject : European programmes for young people aged under 1 5 and for children 204

( 97 / C 217 / 320 ) E-05 14 / 97 by Jesus Cabezón Alonso to the Commission

Subject : Transposition of social protection Directives in Spain 204

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P-05 17 / 97 by Peter Truscott to the Commission
Subject : International truck driver qualifications 205

E-0525 / 97 by Maartje van Putten to the Commission
Subject : Rugmark carpets 206

E-0526 / 97 by James Moorhouse to the Commission
Subject : Aid to Algeria 206

E-0532 / 97 by Luciano Vecchi to the Commission
Subject : Establishment of a recycling plant at Bronzolo / Branzoll ( Bolzano Autonomous Province, Italy ) 207

E-0533 / 97 by Luciano Vecchi to the Commission
Subject : Establishment of a recycling plant at Bronzolo / Branzoll ( Bolzano Autonomous Province, Italy ) 208

E-0542 / 97 by Johanna Maij-Weggen to the Commission
Subject : Death sentences pronounced against two members of the Bahai faith in Iran 208

E-0543 / 97 by Johanna Maij-Weggen to the Commission
Subject : Ban on Dr Majed Nasser travelling to the Netherlands 209

E-0551 / 97 by Ulf Holm to the Commission
Subject : Possible decision by Sweden not to participate in EMU 209

E-0556 / 97 by Jannis Sakellariou to the Commission
Subject : Potato starch quotas 210

E-0559 / 97 by James Moorhouse to the Commission
Subject : Detention of EU citizens in Saudi-Arabian prisons 210

E-0565 / 97 by Magda Aelvoet to the Commission
Subject : Improving the environment for residents of the Espace Bruxelles-Europe area 211

P-0570 / 97 by Maria Berger to the Commission
Subject : EUR - 1 for cargoes 212

P-0571 / 97 by Carmen Díez de Rivera Icaza to the Commission
Subject : Directive on noise reduction 212

P-0572 / 97 by Elly Plooij-van Gorsel to the Commission
Subject : Internet child-pornography reporting site 213

P-0573 / 97 by Christoph Konrad to the Commission
Subject : Vehicle fleet for Commission Members 213

P-0574 / 97 by Concepció Ferrer to the Commission
Subject : Erasmus, Comenius and Lingua offices 214

E-05 86 / 97 by Alexandros Alavanos to the Commission
Subject : Implementation of the Philoxenia Programme - 215

E-0587 / 97 by Angela Sierra González, Laura González Alvarez, Pedro Marset Campos
and María Sornosa Martinez to the Commission

Subject : Project to set up a satellite launching station on the island of El Hierro ( Canaries, Spain ) 215

P-0595 / 97 by Antoine-François Bernardini to the Commission
Subject : Refining and distribution of petroleum products in France 216

P-0596 / 97 by Arie Oostlander to the Commission
Subject : Press reports on marked swine fever vaccine 216

P-06 14 / 97 by Pertti Paasio to the Commission
Subject : Securing the conditions to enable Serbia 's democratically elected town councils to function 218

P-06 15 / 97 by Jan Sonneveld to the Commission
Subject : Export ban on live pigs from the Netherlands following an outbreak of swine fever 218

( 97 / C 217 / 343 ) E-0627 / 97 by Luciano Vecchi to the Commission

Subject : Allocation of funding for the ' Meda Democracy ' programme 219

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E-0636 / 97 by Claude Desama to the Commission
Subject : Generalized social security contribution ( CSG ) 220

E-0637 / 97 by Claude Desama to the Commission
Subject : French and Belgian social security benefits 220

E-0639 / 97 by Roberta Angelilli to the Commission
Subject : Lack of transparency 22 1

E-0641 / 97 by Roberta Angelilli to the Commission
Subject : Freezing of funds in the EU 1 997 budget for measures to support the elderly 222

E-0655 / 97 by Wilfried Telkämper to the Commission
Subject : Non-governmental organizations in El Salvador 222

E-0666 / 97 by Roberta Angelilli to the Commission
Subject : Excessively high levels of asbestos dust at the Atac depot at Grottarossa, Rome 223

E-0678 / 97 by Frederic Striby ( I-EDN ) to the Commission
Subject : Commission subsidy for ASUD / JOURNAL 224

E-0679 / 97 by Frederic Striby ( I-EDN ) to the Commission
Subject : Statistics on the number of handicapped persons 224

E-0680 / 97 by Frederic Striby ( I-EDN ) to the Commission
Subject : Excise duties on mineral oils 225

E-0688 / 97 by Gerardo Fernandez - Albor to the Commission
Subject : European Committee on Employment 225

E-0694 / 97 by Nel van Dijk to the Commission
Subject : Capture of hamsters in France 225

E-0696 / 97 by Leen van der Waal ( I-EDN ) to the Commission
Subject : Exploratory talks with Syria 226

P-0697 / 97 by Francisca Sauquillo Pérez del Arco to the Commission
Subject : Consultancy assisting the Commission with the management of budget item B7-6000 227

E-0791 / 97 by Jean-Yves Le Gallou to the Commission
Subject : Operating appropriations of the European Institutions 228

E-0797 / 97 by Jean-Yves Le Gallou to the Commission
Subject : Community subsidies to associations, NGOs and various other bodies 228

E-0799 / 97 by Jean-Yves Le Gallou to the Commission
Subject : Community subsidies to associations, NGOs and various other bodies 228

E-0802 / 97 by Jean-Yves Le Gallou to the Commission
Subject : Community subsidies to associations, NGOs and various other bodies 229

E-0805 / 97 by Jean-Yves Le Gallou to the Commission
Subject : Community subsidies to associations, NGOs and various other bodies 229

E-0806 / 97 by Jean - Yves Le Gallou to the Commission
Subject : Community subsidies to associations, NGOs and various other bodies 229

E-0808 / 97 by Jean - Yves Le Gallou to the Commission
Subject : Community subsidies to associations, NGOs and various other bodies 230

E-08 13 / 97 by Jean - Yves Le Gallou to the Commission
Subject : Community subsidies to associations, NGOs and various other bodies 230

E-08 15 / 97 by Jean - Yves Le Gallou to the Commission
Subject : Community subsidies to associations, NGOs and various other bodies 230

( 97 / C 217 / 366 ) E-08 19 / 97 by Jean - Yves Le Gallou to the Commission

Subject : Community subsidies to associations, NGOs and various other bodies 23 1

##### EN

( Continued overleaf )

Notice No Contents ( continued ) Page

( 97 /C 217 / 367 ) E-0821 / 97 by Jean-Yves Le Gallou to the Commission
Subject : Community subsidies to associations, NGOs and various other bodies 23 1

( 97 / C 217 / 368 ) E-0822 / 97 by Jean - Yves Le Gallou to the Commission
Subject : Community subsidies to associations, NGOs and various other bodies 23 1

Joint answer to Written Questions E-0821 / 97 and E-0822 / 97 231

( 97 / C 217 / 369 ) E-0823 / 97 by Jean - Yves Le Gallou to the Commission
Subject : Community subsidies to associations, NGOs and various other bodies 232

( 97 / C 217 / 370 ) E-0824 / 97 by Jean - Yves Le Gallou to the Commission
Subject : Community subsidies to associations, NGOs and various other bodies 232

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 37 1 ) E-0837 / 97 by Anita Pollack to the Commission
Subject : Energy ratio improvement figures 232

( 97 / C 217 / 372 ) P-0854 / 97 by Per Gahrton to the Commission
Subject : Handling of a written complaint 233

( 97 / C 217 / 373 ) E-0881 / 97 by Wilmya Zimmermann to the Commission
Subject : Declaration of intent : ' Europe against racism ' 233

##### EN

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 1

I

( Information )

EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT

WRITTEN QUESTIONS WITH ANSWER

{ 91 IC 217 / 01 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-1972 / 95

by Alexandros Alavanos ( GUE / NGL ) to the Council

( 10 July 1995 )

Subject : Democratic legitimacy and transparency of the Europol Convention

Parliament 's resolution on the Cannes Summit expresses concern ' at the fact that Europol is being set up without
prior strengthening of the role of the Commission and without funding from the Community budget or
monitoring by the Court of Auditors, and that it will not fall within the jurisdiction of the Court of Justice or be
responsible before the European Parliament ' and ' calls formally on the Council to take Parliament 's views into
account before the convention is finally adopted .'

The fact that the Europol Convention has been set up in absolute secrecy and with a total lack of transparency,
bypassing both the European Parliament and the national parliaments, has quite rightly given the citizens of
Europe cause for concern .

What practical measures will the Council take to restore democratic legitimacy at both Union and Member State
level ?

Answer

( 18 April 1997 )

The legal basis for the act on the establishment of a European Police Office is Article K.3(2)(c ) of the Treaty on
European Union . Under Article K.6 of that Treaty, the text of the act was referred to the European Parliament in
June 1995 .

' In addition, the text of the Europol Convention was published in the Offical Journal on 27 November 1995 . In
some, if not all, Member States, the procedures necessary to conclude ratification involve national Parliaments .'

( 97 / C 217 / 02 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3641 / 95

by Marco Pannella ( ARE ) to the Council

( 12 January 1996 )

Subject : Evaluation and possible revision of EU policy on drugs

The recent joint seminar ( involving Parliament, the Council and the Commission ) on drugs held in Brussels on
7 and 8 December 1995 was convened at the request of Parliament ( Stewart-Clark [ A4-0 136 / 95 (■')] and Burtone

[ A4-01 7 1 / 95 ( 2 )] reports ).

No C 217 / 2 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

Parliament recommended that a conference be arranged to ' encourage discussion and analysis of the results of
the policies in force as laid down by the relevant 1961, 1971 and 1988 UN Conventions so as to permit a possible
revision of those conventions '; however the conference that was held did not tackle these issues directly .

Does the Council intend to use the results of the seminar in question to prepare for a conference that would be
wider in scope and aimed at evaluating and possibly revising existing policies on drugs, in line with Parliament 's
request ?

(') OJ C 166, 3.7.1995, p . 116 .
( 2 ) OJ C 269, 16.1.1995, p . 65 .

Answer

( 18 April 1997 )

The outcome of the forementioned joint seminaras well as that held in March 1996 on the harmonization of laws
was largely taken into consideration by the Irish Presidency when drawing up its programme .

The Irish Presidency 's proceedings were covered in a report to the Dublin European Council in December 1996 .
That report provides for a number of activities, certain of which had been recommended at the abovementioned
seminar .

The Council does not as yet anticipate holding a conference such as that contemplated by the Honourable
Member .

( 97 / C 217 / 03 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0717 / 96

by Yiannis Roubatis ( PSE ) to the Council

( 27 March 1996 )

Subject : Involvement of Turkey in the distribution and production of drugs

According to the State Department 's annual report on international drugs control published on 1 March 1995,
Turkey is a focal point for the distribution of drugs from south-west Asia to Europe and also produces or
processes large quantities of drugs intended mainly for European markets .

1 . What information does the Council have concerning the references to Turkey in the State Department 's
report ?

2 . What steps has it taken and what steps does it intend to take in future to ensure that this country, which is
associated with the European Union, introduces stricter controls on drugs distribution and immediately ends
the production of all types of drugs, apart from those used for medical purposes ?

Answer

( 24 April 1997 )

The Council is not in possession of the data referred to by the Honourable Member . The transit of drugs through
Turkey and production in the country itself are matters of concern within the Union . In the light of the drugs plan
adopted by the European Council in Madrid in December 1995, the Council adopted under the Irish Presidency a
Joint Action based on Article K.3(2)b of the Treaty on European Union, relating to participation of the member

States in a strategic operation prepared by the Customs Cooperation Council programme to combat drug
smuggling on the Balkan route .

Under the Netherlands Presidency, specific measures are being examined in response to a report by the Europol
Drugs Unit ( EDU ).

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 3

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 04 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0798 / 96

by Hartmut Nassauer ( PPE ) to the Council

( 12 April 1996 )

Subject : Convention on the protection of the European Communities ' financial interests, adopted on

26 July 1995

For each Member State, will the Council give the progress of ratification procedures as at 1 March 1 996 for the
Convention on the protection of the European Communities ' financial interests, adopted on 26 July 1995 (')•

(') OJ C 316, 27.11.1996, p . 48 .

Answer

( 18 April 1997 )

To date, no Member State has ratified the Convention in question .

The Council favours early ratification and implementation of the Convention by all the Member States .
However, in July 1995 when the Convention was drawn up, a difficult issue remained unresolved, namely
whether the Court of Justice should be given jurisdiction to give preliminary rulings on the interpretation of the
Convention .

Happily, a solution has in the meantime been found to this problem : the Council drew up, on 29 November 1996,
on the basis of Article K.3 of the Treaty on European Union, a Protocol on the interpretation, by way of
preliminary rulings, by the Court of Justice of the European Communities of the Convention on the protection of
the European Communities ' financial interests .

As a result the Council anticipates that the Convention will shortly be ratified by all Member States .

( 97 / C 217 / 05 WRITTEN QUESTION E-1590 / 96

by Reimer Boge ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 24 June 1996 )

Subject : Observance of plant variety protection agreements in the associated countries

Infringement of plant variety protection provisions in the European Union 's partner states is inflicting
considerable economic suffering on European plant breeders . It is estimated that two thirds of the roses subject to
variety protection imported from Poland to Germany have been bred without a licence . This ' variety piracy ' has
now become a serious problem for German rose breeders . Recently the Liibeck customs investigation unit
impounded illegally bred roses from Poland valued at well over DM 100 000 .

What steps is the Commission taking to ensure observance of the conditions on plant variety protection agreed in
the Europe Agreements with our partner countries ?

Supplementary answer
given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 26 February 1997 )

Further to its reply of 30th July 1996 the Commission is now in a position to inform the Honourable Member of
its findings resulting from the information collected from the Member State concerned on the matter of ' variety
piracy '.

It has concluded that the economic problem for rose breeders raised by the Honourable Member may not be due
to infringements, strictu sensu, of plant variety rights granted, but may be attributed to three different
circumstances prevalent in the past, namely limited scope of plant variety protection available in the Community
( in principle limited to propagating material of the protected variety only ), absence of plant variety protection in
certain third countries for varieties protected in the Community, and insufficient arrangements for the
interception, at Community external borders, of unauthorized material of protected varieties on import into the
Community .

No C 217 / 4 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

These circumstances have either changed in recent times, or are the subject of current consideration for further
remedies . As to the first element, it should be noted that since 1994, two types of systems for the protection of
plant varieties are available in the Community, which are a system of Community plant variety rights ('), and
national systems set up by individual Member States for the protection of plant varieties . The Community system
extended the scope of protection beyond propagating material or other variety constituents to harvested material
of protected varieties . A similar extension is currently considered in Member States for inclusion in their
respective national systems, with a view to conformity with the rules of the 1991 revised UPOV ( 2 ) convention
for the protection of new varieties of plants . It appears that no further action by the Commission is needed in this
respect .

Concerning the second element, provisions for the protection of plant varieties are required by the World trade
organization ( WTO ) trade related aspects of intellectual property rights ( TRIPS ) Agreement, either by patent or
by an effective sui generis system or by any combination thereof, and have also been pursued in the Europe
Agreements cited by the Honourable Member .

However, applications for the grant of a plant variety right in the third countries concerned must be made
individually by breeders . The Commission does not see any authority of the Community to ensure that
Community protection is automatically extended geographically to a third country .

As far as the border interception of unauthorized material of protected varieties is concerned, the Commission
draws the attention of the Honourable Member to Part III, Section 4 of the WTO-TRIPS Agreement which
requires that procedures shall, in the case of trademark and copyright, and may, in the case of other intellectual
property rights, be adopted to enable a right holder to lodge an application for the suspension by customs
authorities of the release into free circulation of the goods concerned . The Commission is currently examining, in
respect of plant variety rights, the need for such measures at Community level and the possible implications and
will, where appropriate, make the necessary proposals .

(') Council Regulation ( EC ) No 2100 / 94 ot 24 July 1994 on Community plant variety rights — OJ L 227, 1.9.1994, as amended by Council
Regulation ( EC ) No 2506 / 95 of 25 October 1995         - OJ L 258, 25.10.1995 .
(-) Union pour la protection des obtentions vététales .

( 97 / C 217 / 06 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-1668 / 96

by Giacomo Santini ( UPE ) and Antonio Taiani ( UPE ) to the Council

( 24 June 1996 )

Subject : Special aid for cattle farmers

Italian cattle farmers account for 20% of total Community production, with 2 200 000 head . 70% of capacity is
concentrated in the north east of the country and over the past few months hundreds of livestock farmers have
closed down their operations because of the serious crisis .

The Commission has proposed a special aid scheme under the EAGGF Guarantee Section of ECU 650 million

( some Lit 1200 billion ) for all the Member States .

Given that this amount should be allocated on the basis of the impact on production and that the method of
allocating the single production premium proposed in the price package for the 1996 / 7 marketing year is based
on calves aged 10 months, thus perpetuating a situation which is to the advantage of German and French farmers
from whom Italian, Spanish, Greek and Portuguese farmers import veal calves, why has the Council earmarked
only 6% of this amount, i.e. ECU 39 million, for Italy ?

Answer

( 18 April 1997 )

In the course of 1996 the Council adopted a series of Regulations amending the common organization ot the
market in beef in order to cope with the crisis started by the United Kingdom Government 's revelations
concerning the possible risk of transmission of BSE to humans .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 5

The first measure which the Council adopted is contained in Council Regulation ( EEC ) No 1357 / 96 of
8 July 1 996 . Acting on the conclusions of the Florence European Council, the Council put aside some
ECU 850 million to assist Community producers seriously affected by the crisis .

The Regulation provides for two forms of aid, to be funded from the Community budget, viz .:

— ECU 581 million, in the form of an increase in the existing premiums for male bovines and suckler cows ;
these amounted to ECU 23 for young male bovines and ECU 27 for suckler cows .

These additional premiums are paid to producers :

— who qualify for a special premium under Article 4(b ) of Regulation ( EEC ) No 805 / 68 for animals kept in
the 1 995 calendar year ;

— who qualify for a suckler cow premium under Article 4(d ) of Regulation ( EEC ) No 805 / 68 for animals
kept in the 1 995 calendar year ;

— ECU 269 million, which Member States can use to assist beef producers hit by the crisis whose loss of
income is not fully compensated by the additional premiums paid through the first aid scheme . When this
ECU 269 million was shared out among the Member States, ECU 24 million was earmarked for Italy .

Amounts in the first instalment were calculated in proportion to the number of animals eligible for the respective
premiums in 1995, whilst for the second instalment, Italy was allocated a percentage of 8.8% . Here the Council
worked on the basis of the size of each Member State 's bovine herd most affected by the crisis, taking into
account payments made in the first instalment .

Furthermore, the Council adopted a further series of measures in late 1 996 to bring the market more under control
and provide additional direct income support for farmers .

Regulation No 2222 / 96 provides for two schemes for calves :

— a processing premium for calves less than 10 days old ;

— an early marketing premium for calves .

Between 1 December 1996 and 30 November 1998, Member States may apply at least one of these two schemes .

To conclude, it would appear that these measures, which form a balanced compromise, are indeed commensurate
with the situation and the interests of each Member State .

Regulation No 2443 / 96 provides for a sum of ECU 500 million to be earmarked for cattle farmers . Under this
scheme, Italy has received ECU 42.25 million . The allocation scale adopted by the Council is based, amongst
other things, on the size of the beef herd in each Member State .

( 97 / C 217 / 07 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-1787 / 96

by Johanna Maij-Weggen ( PPE ) to the Council

(5 July 1996 )

Subject : Late dispatch of Council documents to participating ministers

1 . Is the Council aware that the First and Second Chambers in the Netherlands prohibited their Ministers for
Internal Affairs and Justice from participating in decision-making in the Council of 4 June 1996 because the
Council documents were not made available in good time and in the Dutch language, with the result that the
Netherlands Parliament was unable to engage in adequate consultation with its own Ministers ?

2 . Does the Council realize that the European Parliament has also, on a number of occasions, insisted on
Council documents being made available in good time to national parliaments, in particular in its resolution of

13 March 1996 on the preparations for the IGC ( A4-0068 / 96 — Dury / Maij-Weggen report )?

3 . Does the Council not consider that the Netherlands Parliament is right to block Council decisions in this
connection, and can the Council undertake that Council documents will in future be available to national
parliaments not later than one month in advance, as called for in the said resolution of 13 March 1996 ?

No C 217 / 6 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

Answer

( 18 April 1997 )

The Council is aware that the translation of documents into all languages is essential in ensuring that decisions to
be taken at Council level are thoroughly scrutinized by Member States ' authorities . It consequently tries to
ensure, as far as is possible, that documents being submitted to Council meetings are translated very rapidly . The
instructions to the translation services on transition priorities reflect this principle .

It should also be noted that Article 10 of the Rules of Procedure stipulates that except as otherwise decided
unanimously by the Council on grounds of urgency, the Council shall deliberate and take decisions only on the
basis of documents and drafts drawn up in the languages specified in the rules in force governing languages .

( 97 / C 217 / 08 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-1842 / 96

by David Bowe ( PSE ) to the Commission

(5 July 1996 )

Subject : Demeton-S . Methyl

Is the Commission aware of the harmful effects of the chemical Demeton-S . Methyl used as a pesticide in crop
sprays ?

Because of the danger posed to public health this pesticide has been banned in the United States of America . Will
the Commission propose limitations on the use of Demeton-S . Methyl to avoid the airborne drift of this dangerous
substance ?

Supplementary answer
given by M. Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 14 February 1997 )

Further to its answer of 17 September 1996 (') the Commission is now able to provide the following additional
information .

Demethon-S-methyl is an organophosphorus pesticide which exhibits its main toxic effects by inhibition of
acetylchloninesterase thereby affecting the transmission of nerve impulses . According to information available
to the Commission it is authorized for use in plant protection products under national legislation in certain
Member States but has never been authorized in the United States .

Directive 9 1 / 41 4 / EEC ( 2 ) on the authorization of plant protection products provides for a progressive programme
for the examination at Community level of all active substances contained in plant protection products on the
Community market . Demeton-S-methyl will be reviewed in this programme and any decision taken will then be
applicable throughout the Community .

(>) OJ C 91, 20.3.1997, p . 2 .
( 2 ) OJ L 230, 19.8.1991 .

( 97 / C 217 / 09 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-1870 / 96

by Michl Ebner ( PPE ) to the Council

(8 July 1996 )

Subject : Compulsory vaccination in Italy

Vaccination against polio, diphtheria, tetanus and hepatitis B is compulsory is Italy and, where this requirement
is not met, heavy fines are imposed ( up to 1 500 000 lire per case and per parent ), children are not permitted to
attend school or to take state examinations, access to social institutions ( creches, children 's homes,
kindergartens, youth groups ) is denied and admission to sports clubs is impossible . The Council is invited to

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 7

consider whether this is compatible with the right of free establishment, which is ensured in the EU, seeing that
this right is invalidated in Italy by a state law making vaccination compulsory .

In South Tyrol there are currently four cases of children being excluded from school and one of a child denied
access to a kindergarten because they do not have vaccination certificates . They are all children of immigrants
from Germany and Austria, where vaccination is not compulsory .

Answer

( 18 April 1997 )

The question raised by the Honourable Member is a matter for the relevant Italian authorities and possibly the
Commission as regards monitoring implementation of the provisions of the Treaty in the field of the right of
establishment and the free movement of workers .

( 91IC 217 / 10 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-2274 / 96

by Yannos Kranidiotis ( PSE ) to the Council

( 27 August 1996 )

Subject : The situation in Myanmar

In June 1996 the Danish Consul of Greek extraction, Mr Nichols, died under mysterious circumstances in a
prison in Myanmar . He had been sentenced by the Burmese authorities to three years in prison because he had
been arrested with two fax machines in his possession, and these machines are only allowed in Myanmar with
official authorization . The Burmese authorities said that his death was due to illness, but refused to cooperate in
any way to establish the circumstances of his death .

This incident is not unique in Myanmar . The human rights situation in the country is steadily deteriorating . Every
day the Burmese authorities arrest scores of members of the National League for Democracy and forced labour
has assumed enormous dimensions .

Last January ( 20 January 1996 ) the Commission decided to investigate the scale of this forced labour and the
human rights situation in Myanmar, given that this is a country which benefits from the Community system of
generalized preferences . Denmark, for its part, has already proposed that a list be drawn up of sanctions that
could be imposed by the European Union .

In view of the latest developments, can the Council say what specific measures it intends to take to address the
situation in Myanmar ?

( 97 / C 217 / 11 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3534 / 96

by Yannos Kranidiotis ( PSE ) to the Council

( 12 December 1996 )

Subject : The situation in Myanmar ( Burma )

Recently in Myanmar, the leader of the National League for Democracy, Mrs Aung San Suu Kyi, was assaulted
by a group of people while in the company of her supporters . Mrs Aung San Suu Kyi has suffered similar attacks
on several occasions and both she and her supporters have been arrested many times by the Burmese authorities
for their publicly expressed views .

These incidents are not unique in Myanmar . Forced labour, mainly involving adults, has assumed vast
proportions in that country . Human rights organizations report that a large section of the population is forced by
the military to work on public projects on a daily basis .

The Commission wanted to send a delegation to Myanmar to investigate forced labour and the human rights
situation given that the country is a beneficiary of the Community 's generalized system of preferences but the
Burmese authorities would not allow it .

In the light of this situation, why does the Council not take practical measures to exert pressure on the
government of that country ?

No C 217 / 8 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7.97

Joint answer

to Written Questions E-2274 / 96 and E-3534 / 96

( 24 April 1997 )

The Council has on various occasions expressed its deep concern about the human rights situation and the lack of
democratic freedoms in Myanmar .

An EU Common Position on Myanmar (') was endorsed by the EU Council on 28 October 1996, reaffirming
existing measures and providing for a series of new restrictive administrative and visa measures which took
effect immediately for a renewable period of six months .

In the text of the common position, the European Union recalls that it has already requested the Special Working
Group on arbitrary detention and imprisonment to visit Burma / Myanmar, and the Special Rapporteur on
Burma / Myanmar to investigate the circumstances leading up to, and surrounding, the death of Mr James Lean ­
der Nichols .

The Common Position also reaffirms measures already adopted with a view to promoting progress towards
democratization and securing the immediate and unconditional release of detained political prisoners :

— explusion of all military personnel attached to the diplomatic representations of Burma / Myanmar in Member
States of the European Union and withdrawal of all military personnel attached to diplomatic representations
of the Member States of the European Union in Burma / Myanmar ;

— an embargo on arms, munitions and military equipment and suspension of non-humanitarian aid or
development programmes . Exceptions may be made for projects and programmes in support of human rights
and democracy as well as those concentrating on poverty alleviation and, in particular, the provision of basic
needs for the poorest sections of the population, in the context of decentralized cooperation through local
civilian authorities and Non-Governmental Organizations .

In addition, it introduces the following measures :

( i ) ban on entry visas for senior members of the SLORC and their families ;

( ii ) ban on entry visas for senior members of the military or the security forces who formulate, implement or

benefit from policies that impede Burma / Myanmar ' s transition to democracy, and their families, and

( iii ) suspension of high-level bilateral governmental ( Ministers and Officials at the level of political director and

above ) visits to Burma / Myanmar .

The implementation of this Common Position will be monitored by the Council, to which the Presidency and the
Commission will regularly report, and will be reviewed in the light of developments in Burma / Myanmar .
Further measures may need to be considered . Inthe case of a substantial improvement of the overall situation in
Burma / Myanmar, not only the suspension of the aforementioned measures, but also the gradual resumption of
cooperation with Burma / Myanmar will be considered, after careful assessment of developments by the Council .

Bulgaria, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Norway, Poland,
Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia have associated themselves to this EU Common Position on 7 November 1 996 .

Finally, the Council is now seized of a Commission proposal to withdraw GSP preferences in relation to
Burma / Myanmar .

(') OJ L 287, 8.11.1996 .

17 . 7 . 97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 9

( 97 / C 217 / 12 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-2366 / 96

by Thomas Megahy ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 27 August ] 996 )

Subject : EMU and unemployment in construction

Does the Commission accept the conclusion of the recent report from the European Construction Industry
Federation ( ECIF ) that over a quarter of a million jobs will be lost in the EU construction industry before the end
of 1997 as a result of the application of limits on public borrowing and debt imposed by the EMU convergence
criteria ?

If not, could it give the arguments upon which it bases its denial of the ECIF assertion, and the data upon which
those arguments are based ?

Supplementary answer
given by Mr de Silguy on behalf of the Commission

( 26 March 1997 )

The Commission finds it difficult to accept the arguments that the process of convergence towards Economic and
Monetary Union ( EMU ) will cost the construction industry a quarter of a million jobs by the end of 1997 .

An examination of the data contained in the European Construction Industry Federation ( FIEC ) reports No 38
( June 1996 ) and No 39 ( December 1996 ) reveals that the forecasts for the construction industry available for

1997 do not cover all the Member States . In addition, in these 1997 forecasts, most of the employment losses as
compared with 1995 are due to Germany, which is clearly a special case . Report No 39 states that '... the German
construction industry is not only experiencing a short-term weakness ; it is simultaneously undergoing a severe
structural crisis '. Prospects in the other Member States are not nearly so unfavourable .

Secondly, although the 1996 FIEC reports consider that part of the industry 's problems comes from the reduction
in public orders connected with budget consolidation policies, they also show sharply contrasting trends in the
private sector where renovation and maintenance works are tending to replace new construction and are
distinctly less sensitive to cyclical fluctuations .

Lastly, the reports mention factors other than budget developments which have influenced the evolution of the
industry : some of these are favourable ( lower interest rates, increase in overall saving ) while others are
unfavourable ( demographic trends, high unemployment rate ).

Report No 38 also states that employment in the industry is declining as a result of the slowdown in output and
increased productivity attributable to more advanced technology .

As far as convergence policies more particularly are concerned, the Commission, in its broad economic policy
guidelines, has always stressed that the consolidation of public expenditure must not take place at the expense of
public investment, which provides the infrastructure essential to the development of private activities .

Moreover, it is now recognized that, in the medium term, budget consolidation, provided that it is credible,
generates a combination of savings and investment and a level of interest rates more favourable to growth . It
enables the State to reorganize its revenue and expenditure more efficiently, increases its room for manoeuvre in
the area of budgetary policy and sets the public debt on a steadily falling trajectory . Lastly, the favourable
expectations created for businesses and individuals by the reduction in the public deficit also come into play at
this stage . Provided that the reduction is credible and permanent, it leads to expectations of future falls in
taxation, which exert a favourable influence on the propensity to invest and to consume .

In addition, even in the short term, credible budgetary consolidation can lead to powerful positive effects via the
reduction in interest rates . In the Member States which are heavily indebted and subject to a large risk premium
on their interest rates, the credibility of the process can very rapidly lead to a definite fall in such risk premiums,
which has positive effects on the activity of the private sector . The movement of interest rates, for example in
Italy or Spain this autumn, shows that this process has already started . Furthermore, even in the Member States
which are not subject to risk premiums, the prospect of a co-ordinated consolidation is also having favourable
effects on the level of interest rates, as already demonstrated by the present trend of long-term interest rates, in
particular in Germany or France .

No C 217 / 10 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7.97

These effects on interest rates have a positive impact on investment, in particular in construction, with knock-on
effects on aggregate demand which complement and reinforce the positive effects of the fall in interest rates .

Consequently, if the construction industry is experiencing difficulties, these are due to a number of factors such
as the speculation which in many Member States led to excessive and temporary rises in the price of immovable
assets, inevitably followed after a few months or years by a reverse reaction which is temporarily depressing
activity in the industry .

( 97 / C 217 / 13 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-2549 / 96

by Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Council

(1 October 1996 )

Subject : The Internet

Every day, articles about the Internet are to be found in newspapers published in Italy and throughout Europe .
The uncontrolled transmission of messages with a criminal content and even messages supporting terrorism, is
therefore a matter of great concern .

Given the tremendous rate of growth of this telematic network, which, although still in its infancy, already has
millions of users around the world, would the Council not agree that it should without delay — since time is
running out — consider a series of proposals with a view to finding a solution to this problem despite the
undeniable difficulties involved ?

Answer

( 24 April 1997 )

The need to combat illegal use of the technical possibilities of Internet, especially for offenses against children,
has been underlined in many sessions of the Council during 1996 . In particular at its session of
28 November 1996, the Council ( Telecommunications ) and the Representatives of the Member States within the
Council agreed on a Resolution on illegal and harmful content on the Internet .

The main aim of this Resolution is to invite the Member States to start without delay with a first set of measures
to encourage the provision to users of filtering mechanisms, the setting up of rating systems, for example the
PISC ( Platform for Internet Content Selection ) and self-regulatory systems, effective codes of conduct and
possible hot-line reporting mechanisms .

The Resolution also requests the Commission, as far as Community competence is concerned, to ensure the
follow-up and the coherence of work on these measures and to take further initiatives if appropriate .

At its meeting of 16 December 1996, the Council ( Culture / Audiovisual ) adopted conclusions concerning the
Green Paper on ' the Protection of Minors and Human Dignity in the Audiovisual and Information Services .'

In these conclusions, the Council takes note of the complementarity between the Green Paper and the
Commission Communication on ' illegal and harmful content on the Internet ' and the timetable presented by the
Commission involving in-depth consultation of interested parties, on the basis of their observations on the Green
Paper in the first half of 1997 . It requests the Commission, in the framework of Community competences, to
follow up work on the Green Paper between now and the next meeting of the Council ( Culture / Audiovisual )
including proposing further initiatives if appropriate .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 11

( 97 / C 217 / 14 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-2683 / 96

by Jose Val verde Lopez ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 15 October J 996 )

Subject : Moves by the Junta de Andalucia to exclude the municipalities of Sanlucar de Barrameda and

Trebujena from the Donana Regional Coordination Plan

Ecological organizations in Andalusia have protested against moves by the Junta de Andalucia to exclude the
municipalities of Sanlucar de Barrameda and Trebujena from the Donana Regional Coordination Plan, claiming
that this is a manoeuvre to allow the construction of a luxury housing development on the land known as ' Loma
de Martin Miguel '. This development might be compared to the controversial ' Costa Donana ' plan .

Given that the Donana II Programme is now being implemented with an EC contribution of more than
ECU 40 million, in addition to the extraordinary grant of ECU 105 million for the period 1994-97 agreed at the

1992 Edinburgh European Council, what information does the Commission have on any such action and would it
be compatible with the Donana Regional Plan ?

Supplementary answer
given by Mrs Wulf-Mathies on behalf of the Commission

( 12 March 1997 )

Further to its answer of 15 November 1996 ('), the Commission can now provide the following information .

The Commission has learned that the regional authorities of Andalusia approved an amendment of the ' Plan
Director Territorial de Coordination de Donana ' by Decree No 472 / 96 of 22 October 1996 which excludes the
municipalities of Sanlucar de Barrameda and Trebujena from the Plan .

The Commission stresses that these municipalities are not within the area of application of the Donana II
operational programme approved by the Commission .

The Commission also points out that town planning and regional planning are the responsibility of Member
States . Nevertheless, at the last meeting of the Monitoring Committee, the Commission, concerned at the effects
that any administrative changes in the surrounding area could have on the programme 's impact, asked for a
detailed report before the end of March on its implementation and on the consequences any amendment of this
nature could have .

(') OJ C II, 13.1.1997, p . 112 .

( 97 / C 217 / 15 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-2822 / 96

by Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Council

( 23 October 1996 )

Subject : Elections in Bosnia

There have been disturbing reports in the press in recent days that the Organization for Security and Cooperation
in Europe ( OSCE ), which was responsible for overseeing the proper conduct of the elections in Bosnia, is
apparently attempting to cover up ballot rigging involving some 600 000 excess votes .

The OSCE estimated that about 2.9 million electors were entitled to vote, and it is known for certain that
580 000 Bosnian were unable to take part in the election . Figures from the polling stations indicate that the
turn-out was 1.89 million . It thus seems, when all the calculations have been done, that 600 000 fewer votes were
cast than the 2.52 million counted . These phantom ballot-papers place a serious question mark over, among other
things, the victory of the Muslim leader, Alija Izetbegovic .

Have the above reports been checked ? What steps will the Council take if they prove to be true ?

No C 217 / 12 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17.7.97

Answer

(3 April 1997 )

As the Honourable Member is aware, the Council has welcomed the holding of national and entities elections in
Bosnia and Herzegovina on 14 September 1996 and the fact that they had been conducted in a largely peaceful
and dignified manner .

According to the Dayton / Paris agreement, these elections were carried out under the responsibility of the OSCE .
Consequently, the task of certifying the elections as free and fair was given to the Provisional Election
Commission ( PEC ) chaired by Ambassador Frowick .

The Council notes that following the elections, the PEC Chairman stated that they were 'a reasonably democratic
process resulting in a reasonably democratic outcome reflecting the will of people .'

The Council remains convinced that, given the difficult circumstances in war-ravaged former Y ugoslavia, these
elections represented a major step ahead and contributed to the consolidation of peace and the creation of a single
State of Bosnia and Herzegovina, enabling the setting-up of common institutions .

( 97 / C 217 / 16 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-2831 / 96

by Gerhard Schmid ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 25 October 1996 )

Subject : Redefinition of areas assisted as part of the joint task entitled ' Improvement of Regional Economic

Structures '

According to the Bavarian Ministry of Economic Affairs, the Commission is planning to delete a third of the
areas currently assisted in Bavaria when the areas assisted as part of the joint task are redefined .

1 . Does the Commission intend to delete the districts ( Landkreise ) of Rhon-Grabfeld, Wunsiedel,
Tirschenreuth, Passau, Bad Kissingen, Hof, Schwandorf and Kronach and the boroughs ( kreisfreie Stadte ) of
Passau, Hof, Weiden, Amberg and Schwandorf from the list of areas assisted as part of the joint task ? If so, on
what criteria were the decisions based ?

2 . Why are areas defined by European rules as 5b areas which are eligible for assistance no longer to receive
national assistance ?

3 . According to the Bavarian Government, the Commission is now trying to exercise more influence over the
selection of assisted areas than in the past . Would it not be appropriate, given the subsidiarity principle, for the
selection to be left to the Bavarian Government and for the Commission merely to establish the framework ?

Supplementary answer
given by Mr Van Miert on behalf of the Commission

(6 March 1997 )

1 . On 18 December 1996, the Commission approved the redefinition of the regionally assisted areas for
Germany for the period 1997 to 1999 . None of the Bavarian regions cited by the Honourable Member has been
excluded from the list of the assisted regions by the decision .

2 . The Commission takes its decision on eligibility of regions as assisted areas for national funding on the
basis of its method for the application of Article 92(3)(a ) and ( c ) of the EC Treaty to regional aid (')• The main
criteria of this examination are the level of gross domestic product ( GDP ) per capita measured in purchasing
power standards ( PPS ) and, in the case of assisted areas under Article 92(3)(c ), the structural unemployment of
the region as well as some other socio-economic indicators, like the trend and structure of unemployment, the
demographic situation of the region, productivity or geographic situation . For areas that may obtain Community

17 . 7 . 97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 13

assistance under objective 5b, criteria for examination are laid down in Council Regulation ( EEC ) No 2081 / 93 of
20 July 1993 ( 2 ). There, rural areas outside objective 1 regions that may receive Community assistance under
objective 5b are those which have a low level of socio-economic development assessed on the basis of GDP per
inhabitant and which satisfy at least two of the following criteria : high share of agricultural employment in total
employment, low level of agriculture income and low population density or a significant depopulation trend .

These criteria may not necessarily lead to the same result . As has been the case in the recent list of assisted areas

in Germany ( and other Member States ), some areas are eligible for Community assistance under objective 5b, but
not for national aid under Article 92(3 ) of the EC Treaty .

Insofar as the Bavarian regions eligible for Community assistance under objective 5b have been considered by
the German authorities as meriting regional aid under Article 92(3 ) of the EC Treaty, they have been approved by
the Commission .

3 . The method for the application of Article 92(3)(a ) and ( c ) to regional aid offers a certain flexibility in taking
into account the special socio-economic situation of regions notified as assisted areas by the Member States . This
flexibility has been applied in the past, as well as in the case of the decision on the German map of assisted areas .

(') OJ C 212, 12.8.1988 .
(-) OJ L 193 / 5, 31.7.1993, p . 5 .

( 97 / C 217 / 17 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-2947 / 96

by Undine-Uta Bloch von Blottnitz ( V ) to the Council

(7 November 1996 )

Subject : Species protection — clarification of the EU 's position with regard to CITES

With regard to the Common Position adopted by the Council with a view to adopting Council Regulation ... on the
protection of species of wild fauna and flora by regulating trade therein,

1 . Does the Council consider that the forthcoming regulation ( see above ) in the version in document
4367 / 1 / 96 REV 1 is adequate to fulfil the Community 's obligations as a future independent and responsible party
to the Convention, or must this regulation be amended again when the Community becomes a party to CITES ?

2 . Is there a Council decision to the effect that formalities for accession to CITES will be started as soon as the

necessary 54 contracting states ( 1983 situation ) have ratified the Gabarone amendment to CITES ? If not, what
conditions does the Council attach to the Community 's accession to the Convention .

( 97 / C 217 / 18 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-2948 / 96

by Undine-Uta Bloch von Blottnitz ( V ) to the Council

(7 November 1996 )

Subject : Species protection — clarification of the EU 's position with regard to CITES

The European Parliament recently voted at second reading on the common position of the Council on a new
European regulation on the protection of species . In the Council 's common position all the references in previous
Commission proposals to the EU 's desired status as a party to CITES were deleted . In the Council 's reasons
( 4367 / 1 / 96 REV 1 ADD 1 ) it is stated under iii : ' As regards defining positions to be expressed at Conferences of
the Parties, the Council felt that the usual mechanisms for participation in the Convention were sufficient and that
there was therefore no need to include a specific provision ( Article 19 ).'

1 . What specifically will be the ' usual mechanisms for participation ' which the Council deems to be
' sufficient ' as regards establishing positions for the forthcoming tenth conference of CITES contracting states
and when can the conclusion of this coordination activity be expected ?

2 . In what form and at what stage of this ' participation ' does the Council intend to involve the European
Parliament in establishing the positions on the proposals for the tenth conference of contracting states, to be
submitted to the Secretariat of the Convention by 10 January 1997 ?

No C 217 / 14 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17.7.97

Joint answer

to Written Questions E-2947 / 96 and E-2948 / 96

3 April 1997 )

The Council considers that the Regulation on the protection of species of wild fauna and flora by regulating trade
therein, as adopted, incorporating some of the amendments proposed by the European Parliament and
particularly those relating to the setting up of a working party on the implementation of legislation, will enable
the Community not only to meet its obligations under the CITES Convention, but also to ensure a more effective
level of protection .

As far as the Community 's accession to the Convention is concerned, the parties to the Convention have
repeatedly been asked to ratify the Gaborone amendment which will enable the Community to accede to the
Convention .

As regards defining positions to be expressed at the 10th Conference of the Parties to CITES, the Commission
has not yet taken an initiative .

( 97 / C 217 / 19 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3063 / 96

by Eryl McNaily ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 18 November 1996 )

Subject : Grants relating to the 1993 European Year of Older People and Solidarity between Generations

Can the Commission explain the procedure used for selecting those responsible for assessing grant applications ?

Did each Member State have its own committee for assessing grant applications, and what were the names of the
people on these committees ?

What was the total number of UK grant applications ?

What was the total number of UK applicants who received a grant ?

With reference to the computer printout which was sent to me from DGV listing the UK organizations in receipt
of a grant, can the Commission say whether or not the grants given out were subject to an audit ?

Could the Commission let me know the address of the organization which is monitoring the use of the grants
allocated to the UK ?

What EU funding is currently available to older people ?

Answer given by Mr Flynn on behalf of the Commission

( 11 February 1997 )

Final assessment of applications was made by the Commission . Grants were awarded on the basis of criteria
established in consultation with an advisory committee of national governmental experts . A preliminary
assessment of applications was carried out, within each Member State, by a national committee established by
each Member State . Membership of these committees was a matter for the national authorities . The Commission
does not have the names of members of these committees .

The total number of grant applications from the United Kingdom was over 300 . The number of grants given to
United Kingdom-based applicants was 121 . In most cases the Community contribution was a small proportion of
the overall funding, the bulk of the funding coming from other sources . Final payments were made by the
Commission on the basis of statements of accounts, which were checked on receipt . These files were not selected
for in-depth audit by the Commission, and all projects are now completed and the files are closed . Any auditing
of national funds involved is a matter for the Member State concerned .

The 1997 budget includes a line entitled ' Action for older people ' to which 2.5 MECU has been allocated .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 15

( 97 / C 217 / 20 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3074 / 96

by Pieter Dankert ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 18 November 1996 )

Subject : Bridge over the Tagus / Cohesion Fund

In response to Written Question E-0908 / 96 ('), the Commission asks the Members who tabled the question to
indicate what roads are at issue, so that it can give a reply .

Can it say whether it will permit the so-called ' variante a EN 10 ' to pass through the Tagus Estuary protection
area, either now or in the future, and whether it will help to finance this if an application for such financing is or
has been submitted ?

(') OJ C 11, 13.1.1997, p . 4 .

Answer given by Mrs Wulf-Mathies on behalf of the Commission

( 17 February 1997 )

The Commission wishes to inform the Honourable Member that the project to which he refers is in two phases :

— adjustments to the present route together with reinforcement of the structure ;

— the approaches to the bridge over the Tagus, with landfill in the special protection area .

The first phase was approved by the management unit for the programme ' Development of support
infrastructures ', which is the national structure responsible for selecting projects for financing under the
operational programme . The Portuguese authorities have not requested financing for the second phase .

At the Monitoring Committee meeting on 19 June 1996, the Commission requested the suspension of payments
for the first phase until the Portuguese authorities had notified the Commission of the compensatory measures
they plan to take to minimize the negative effects of the project ( Article 6(4 ) of Directive 92 / 43 / EEC on the
conservation of natural habitats and wild fauna and flora (')) and the Commission had accepted them as
satisfactory . This information has now been sent by the Portuguese authorities and studied by the Commission,
which considers the measures satisfactory in that they meet the requirements of Article 6(4 ) of Directive
92 / 43 / EEC in full .

(') OJ L 206, 22.7.1992 .

( 97 / C 217 / 21 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3078 / 96

by Wolfgang Kreissl-Dorfler ( V ) to the Commission

( 18 November 1996 )

Subject : Beef

1 . Are the cattle slaughtered in the UK under the BSE slaughter programme destroyed or disposed of ?

2 . In what way are the cattle slaughtered in the UK under the BSE slaughter programme officially disposed of
or destroyed ?

3 . How does the Commission ensure that the cattle slaughtered in the UK under the BSE slaughter programme
are properly disposed of or destroyed ?

4 . What steps are taken to ensure that beef from the BSE slaughter programme, which is placed in storage with
other slaughtered cattle, does not get into the food chain by mistake ?

5 . How does the Commission ensure that cattle slaughtered in the UK under the BSE slaughter programme do
not get into the food chain ?

No C 217 / 16 I EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

6 . What is the Commission doing to prevent a black market in cattle from the UK which are destined for
slaughter under the BSE slaughter programme ?

7 . Can the Commission provide figures for the average monthly storage costs for a tonne of beef in ( a ) private
and ( b ) public storage facilities in each EU Member State ?

8 . The Commission has plans for passports for cattle . What information will such a passport contain, and will
this information be compulsory ?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

(3 February J 997 )

1 . and 2 . Presumably the question concerns the slaughtering of cattle over thirty months old ( known as the
OTM scheme ) given that the United Kingdom has not yet carried out the selective cull adopted by the
Commission in June 1996 .

With the exception of the hides, all parts of the cattle culled under the OTM scheme are destroyed, either by
incineration or by rendering followed by incineration . The hides can only be used for leather production . No part
of an animal can enter the food chain, human or animal, or be used in cosmetic or pharmaceutical products .
Concerning exposure of workers to material derived from slaughtered cattle, the provisions of Directives
90 / 679 / EEC (') and 93 / 88 / EEC ( 2 ), which provide for the protection of workers from risks related to exposure to
biological agents at work, apply . The Commission is currently considering whether these provisions need to be
amended .

3 . The cattle to be slaughtered under the OTM scheme are sent to specially designated slaughterhouses and a
representative of the United Kingdom authorities is permanently on hand to supervise operations . After killing,
the heads, internal organs and carcases are permanently stained and transported to a specially authorised
incineration or rendering plant in sealed containers . The United Kingdom competent authority is required to
carry out frequent and unannounced inspections in order to ensure that all stained material is effectively
destroyed . This system is subject to an audit by the Commission and Community veterinary and financial
inspectors .

4 . and 5 . Beef from this programme is stained with an indelible bright yellow colorant and multiple incisions
are made so as to render it easily identifiable and commercially unattractive . If it is stored in the same refrigerated
warehouse as meat intended for human consumption, it is kept apart under the supervision of inspectors from the
Intervention Broad for Agricultural Produce . The Commission conducts inspections at regular intervals to ensure
that the rules are being followed, both from a veterinary and a financial point of view .

6 . The UK authorities are responsible for carrying out the scheme, under the supervision of the Commission
which conducts inquiries into any suspected fraudulent trade .

7 . The Commission does not know the cost of private storage . The costs incurred by the Commission for
public storage consist of reimbursements to the Member States of the costs of physical storage which take the
form of single flat-rate payments and are determined according to Commission Regulation ( EEC ) No 1643 / 89 of

12 June 1989 ( 3 ) defining the standard amounts to be used for financing physical operations arising from the
public storage of agricultural products on the basis of a weighted average of the real costs incurred in at least four
Member States . The Member States in question are those with the lowest real costs which store at least one third
of the product in question . The current figures for beef are :

Quarters Boned meat

ECU 204.63 per tonne

ECU 4.08 per tonne

ECU 13.29 per tonne

Cost of putting in storage

Cost of removal from warehouse

Cost of warehousing

ECU 94.06 per tonne

ECU 12.03 per tonne

ECU 23.23 per tonne

17 . 7 . 97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 17

8 . The BSE crisis has illustrated that beef identification and registration systems are in need of improvement .
A proposal has been made to tighten up the clauses in the relevant Directive, introducing as quickly as possible
harmonized rules concerning the identification and registration of beef cattle by means of a Regulation which can
be directly applied in the Member States . The aim of this proposal is to make it possible to follow the animals
throughout their lives and across borders, specifically by means of the introduction of a computerized database in
each Member State and an animal passport together with double ear tagging of the animals and keeping registers
in each holding .

The exact information to be contained in each passport has still to be decided and will be the subject of a separate
Commission Decision .

(') OJ L 374, 31.12.1990 .
( 2 ) OJ L 268, 29.10.1993 .
(') OJ L 162, 13.6.1990 .

( 97 / C 217 / 22 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3119 / 96

by Hiltrud Breyer ( V ) to the Council

( 21 November 1996 )

Subject : Health hazards inherent in glyphosate-resistant soya beans

1 . Is the Council aware that all the experiments undertaken to reveal the implications for health of
glyphosate-resistant soya beans were carried out without glyphosate being used during the cultivation of the
tested beans ?

2 . Is the Council aware that the future ' normal ' use of these genetically modified beans has not therefore been
tested ?

3 . Is the Council aware of the danger of a significant increase in the concentration of phytooestrogens in
pulses when glyphosate is used ?

4 . How can approval be granted without this test having been carried out ?

5 . What conclusions does the Council draw from this ?

( 97 / C 217 / 23 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3493 / 96

by Hiltrud Breyer ( V ) to the Council

(6 December 1996 )

Subject : Transgenic soya beans

1 . Is the Council aware that there are large gaps in the documents submitted for risk analysis by Monsanto to
the EU in order to obtain a marketing authorization ?

2 . Was the Council aware of the following information : ' To focus the analysis on any effects of the introduced
protein, the soya beans from which the seed were derived were not treated with Roundup herbicide ' ( ACNFP
Review of Glyphosat-tolerant soya beans )?

3 . If so, what is its view of this infringement of Directive 90 / 220 / EEC (') on the release of GMOs ?

4 . If not, what steps is it going to take ?

5 . On the basis of the new information, does it support use of Article 16 of Directive 90 / 220 / EEC by the
Member States ?

(') OJ L 117, 8.5.1990, p . 15 .

No C 217 / 18 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

Joint answer

to Written Questions E-3119 / 96 and E-3493 / 96

(3 April 1997 )

The Council has no information regarding the points made by the Honourable Member in her questions .

In any event, it is for the competent authority of the Member State where the product will be introduced under
Article 12 of Directive 90 / 220 / EEC (') and for the Commission under the procedure laid down in Article 13 of
that Directive to carry out the appropriate checks .

Moreover, implementation of Article 16 of Directive 90 / 220 / EEC is strictly the responsibility of the Member
States .

(') OJ L 117, 8.5.1990 .

( 97 / C 217 / 24 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3121 / 96

by Hiltrud Breyer ( V ) to the Council

( 21 November 1996 )

Subject : Enzyme preparations produced by genetic engineering

The preparation of enzymes with the aid of genetically modified microorganisms in fermenters gives rise to large
quantities of substrates and production organisms, which are also contained in the end product . As in many
large-scale processes, complete purity of the end product cannot be guaranteed . Errors during processing in
particular may result in cell debris of the production organism and both extracellular and intracellular
components entering the end product . Impurities containing viable production organisms may also occur .

1 . Does the Council agree that genetically modified organisms ( GMOs ) authorized only for work in closed
systems may be unintentionally released into the environment in this way ?

2 . Does the Council believe that the GMOs used should undergo a test like that provided for the intentional
release of other GMOs ?

3 . Given the differences from the conventional product, does the Council agree that the product will be
governed by the planned novel food regulation ?

Answer

(3 April 1997 )

As the Honourable Member will know, Directive 90 / 21 9 / EEC on the contained use of genetically modified
micro-organisms (') has been the subject of a modifying proposal, which is currently being examined by the
Council and concerning which the European Parliament 's Opinion has not yet been delivered .

The proposal lays down common measures for the contained use of genetically modified micro-organisms with a
view to protecting human health and the environment .

(') OJ L 117, 8.5.1990 .

( 97 / C 217 / 25 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3123 / 96

by Hiltrud Breyer ( V ) to the Council

( 21 November 1996 )

Subject : Genetically modified rape produced by PGS

1 . How does the Council intend to fulfil its obligations to monitor the prohibition of the use of genetically
modified rape produced by Plant Genetic Systems ( PGS ) as a foodstuff and animal feedingstuff ?

17 . 7 . 97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 19

2 . How is this prohibition monitored in the various Member States ? What differences are identifiable among
the Member States in this respect ?

3 . What will the Council do if there should be no monitoring obligations in the various Member States ?

4 . What methods does the Council intend to use to demonstrate the specific, genetically modified DNA
structure if it does not even know what this structure is ?

5 . What will the Council do if the Member States do not fulfil their monitoring obligations ?

6 . Does the Council agree that, where monitoring obligations are not fulfilled, authorization should be
withdrawn ?

7 . How is the public informed of the results of the monitoring ?

( 97 / C 217 / 26 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3467 / 96

by Hiltrud Breyer ( V ) to the Council

(4 December 1996 )

Subject : Safety precautions in FACTT experiments

Genetically modified rape-seed is being fed to animals in a number of experiments .

How does the Council intend to ensure that genetically modified material does not enter the human food chain ?

( 97 / C 217 / 27 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3469 / 96

by Hiltrud Breyer ( V ) to the Council

(4 December 1996 )

Subject : FACTT project and genetically modified rape-seed

The Commission 's authorization, based on Directive 90 / 220 / EEC ('), for the genetically modified rape-seed of
Plant Genetic Systems ( PGS ) applied only for breeding purposes and prohibits consumption of the product by
humans or the feeding thereof to animals .

1 . Can it nevertheless be true that experiments under the FACTT project ( Familiarisation and Acceptance of
Crops incorporating Transgenic Technology ) have been authorized in which genetically modified rape-seed is
fed to domestic animals, e.g. at Martin Luther University in Halle-Wittenberg ( Germany )?

2 . What is the legal basis for this decision ?

3 . Why is the European Union funding a series of experiments which runs counter to the above authorization ?

(') OJ L 117, 8.5.1990, p . 15 .

( 97 / C 217 / 28 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3471 / 96

by Hiltrud Breyer ( V ) to the Council

(4 December 1996 )

Subject : Expenditure on the FACTT project

1 . What is the total funding for the FACTT project ( Familiarisation and Acceptance of Crops incorporating
Transgenic Technology )?

2 . What costs are borne directly and indirectly by the European Union ?

3 . How high is EU support for FACTT in specific cases ?

4 . What firms, universities and other establishments receive European Union funding under the FACTT
project ?

5 . For what measures ( projects ) do they receive it ?

No C 217 / 20 fEN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

( 97 / C 217 / 29 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3473 / 96

by Hiltrud Breyer ( V ) to the Council

(4 December 1996 )

Subject : FACTT and liability

1 . Who is liable for any harm or damage which may occur in connection with experiments under the FACTT
project ?

2 . Has the Council concluded an agreement with the firms concerned to make these companies jointly liable if
any harm or damage is done ?

3 . If not, what is the Council 's view of this indirect subsidy for the firms involved ?

Joint answer

to Written Questions E-3123 / 96, E-3467 / 96, E-3469 / 96, E-3471 / 96 and E-3473 / 96

(3 April 1997 )

The Council has no knowledge of the points raised by the Honourable Member in her questions .

The projects to which she refers are more a matter for the Commission . At all events, the Council has concluded
no biotechnology research agreements .

As regards safety and monitoring, it is the Commission 's task to monitor the implementation of Community
legislation      - in this instance the measures to be taken by the Member States pursuant to Article 13(6 ) and
Article 14 of Directive 90 / 220 / EEC .

That Directive provides for reports on the control of the use of products placed on the market under its provisions
( Article 18 ) and on the implementation of these provisions ( Article 22 ).

( 97 / C 217 / 30 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3131 / %

by Jose Valverde Lopez ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 22 November 1996 )

Subject : UK stock of feed possibly carrying BSE

Various sources indicate that although the UK ban on feeding ruminants with ruminant-derived protein applied
from 1988 on, it was apparently not properly implemented until recently . Furthermore, recent reports indicate
that in the UK there are some 6000 animal feed factories which may still contain remnants of potentially
infectious stocks of feed .

What information has the Commission on this subject ?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

(4 February 1997 )

The Commission is not aware of the presence of any remnants of potentially infected meat-and-bone meal stocks
in farms or feed mills in the United Kingdom .

On 28 March 1996 the United Kingdom prohibited the sale or supply of any mammalian meat-and-bone meal, or
any feeding&tuff known to contain mammalian meat-and-bone meal, for the purpose of feeding to farm animals .
The United Kingdom started a scheme for the recall of feed containing meat-and-bone meal from all farms and
feed mills on 24 June 1996, which was finalised by the end of July . After recall of the feed, storage facilities and
equipment were cleaned out prior to any other use of the facilities and equipment . Based on the two     - weekly
report received from the United Kingdom on bovine spongiform encephalopathy ( BSE ) as laid down in
Commission Decision 96 / 239 / EC on emergency measures to protect against bovine spongiform encephalopa ­
thy ('), the United Kingdom informs the Commission of the comprehensive check inspections to ensure
compliance with these requirements . In particular, 5,393 samples of feed and ingredients have been taken to

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 21

investigate for the presence of mammalian protein since February 1996 . Forty three of these have been found to
be positive ie 1.2% . These positive samples have been investigated by the United Kingdom veterinary service,
and the results reported in the fortnightly reports from the United Kingdom to the Commission and Member
States . All since 1 August 1996 relate to mammalian protein from catering waste in feed for non-ruminant
species . No samples of ruminant feed containing mammalian protein have been detected since June 1996 .

Material collected under the feed recall scheme has been held under secure storage by the British authorities until
appropriate disposal could be arranged . On 1 August 1996 the possession of meat-and-bone meal at farms, feed
mills and feed merchants supplying feed to farms became illegal .

At present, all meat-and-bone meal produced from cattle slaughtered over the age of 30 months is rendered and
thereafter stored with a view to incineration . Meat-and-bone meal produced from cattle under the age of
30 months ( with the exclusion of ' specified bovine offals ') may, however, be used for pet food in premises which
do not handle any feed for farm animals .

Recent inspections seem to confirm the positive development in relation to the United Kingdom feed controls
since May 1996 when a recommendation was made by the Commission to implement a recall scheme .

(') OJ L 78, 28.3.1996 .

( 97 / C 217 / 31 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3146 / 96

by Fernando Fernandez Martin ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 22 November 1996 )

Subject : Towards sustainable development in the Canaries

Between 1989 and 1993, virtually all programming agreements drawn up between Member States and the
Community for Objective 1 regions included an ' environmental ' element .

The major importance of infrastructure in these regions means that they are where the major ERDF
environmental projects are located .

The Canary Islands have adopted measures to correct ecological and economic imbalances caused by mass
tourism .

What specific projects in the Canary Islands have benefitted from this aid ? What projects are earmarked for
similar subsidy in the future ?

Supplementary answer
given by Mrs Wulf-Mathies on behalf of the Commission

( 27 February 1997 )

Community assistance for tourism and environmental measures in the Canary Islands for the period 1989-93 was
mainly granted through the forms of assistance provided for in implementation of the Objective 1 Community
Support Framework ( CSF ) for Spain for 1989-93 .

The reform of the Community Structural Funds, in application since 1989, was based inter alia on the principle of
programming whereby Community aid is granted by preference through the part-financing of operational
programmes . For the above period, the Commission approved the operational programme for the Canary
Islands ('), the Regis I Community Initiative programme ( CIP ) ( 2 ) and the integrated operational programme for
La Gomera ( 3 ).

The programme providing specifically for the part-financing of the measures referred to by the Honourable
Member was the Regis I CIP, which contained measure 3.1.2 . ' Albergues y caserios rurales ', the purpose of
which was to rectify environmental and economic imbalances through the development of alternative forms of
tourism in depressed rural areas . This programme has now been completed and the financing of it has been
wound up .

No C 217 / 22 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 7.7 . 97

The selection of projects under the forms of assistance referred to above is the responsibility of the Member

State, which informs the Monitoring Committee for the programme . This Committee, which is chaired by a
representative of the national authorities and includes a Commission representative, is there to ensure that the
operation runs smoothly to attain the programme 's objectives, that the rules are complied with and that measures
conform to the priorities adopted in the CSF and the objectives of assistance .

The Member State, in this instance the Ministry for Economic Affairs, is responsible for providing information
on projects . The final report on the implementation of the Regis I CIP drawn up by the Ministry for Economic
Affairs refers to the following projects part-financed under measure 3.1.2 .:

Recipient

Investment Subsidy paid
( in pesetas ) ( in pesetas )

Ecoturismo Gomera Verde 87 884 658 22 995 726

AMOS IDA S.A. 31 600 000 9 808 977

Asociación Rutas Canarias 116 522 624 21 887 288

Asociación Turismo Rural Tacoronte-Acentejo 95 040 672 12 090 117

S.A. Lanzarote Palace 201 985 504 63 256 938

Cooperativa Turismo Rural del Hierro 63 822 340 15 876 855

Turismo Rural Agiiimes 47 61 1 472 6 781 161
Carlos Miguel Leal S. L. 7 600 000 818 899

Buropyme S.L. 27 341 420 7 966 038
Asociación Roque Cano 74 810 256 23 311 248

Asociación Turismo Rural Turubar 74 982 908 8 01 1 046

Asociación Turismo Rural Cubo de la Galga 29 195 550 2 528 328

In addition, two buildings were bought, restored and equipped for rural tourism :

— Casa Aguimes ( Aguimes, Gran Canaria ) for PTA 20 million

— Casa Buenavista ( Buenavista, Tenerife ) for PTA 59 million .

The Honourable Member can obtain all relevant information on projects currently being implemented from the
Ministry for Economic Affairs .

( 1 ) Decision C(90 ) 2501, 14.12.1 990 .
( 2 ) Decision C(90 ) 1493 / 1, 30.7.1990 .
(>) Decision C(91 ) 1512 / 1, 25.7.1991 .

( 97 / C 217 / 32 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3422 / 96

by Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Council

(4 December 1996 )

Subject : Exploitation of child labour

Pakistan 's textile companies mainly employ children . These ten to twelve year olds are are crowded together in
dark and airless factories where they work for twelve to sixteen hours a day for a few US cents an hour . This
enables the firms in question to sell their products on Eastern markets at a low price .

The same practice occurs in Bangladesh, India, the Philippines, Thailand and China : the economic ' growth ' of a
large part of Asia is based on the ruthless exploitation of child labour .

The Commission recently decided not to bring before the World Trade Organization ( which is meeting in
Singapore in December ) the question of child labour, which, in addition to being an affront to human dignity,
gives an unfair competitive advantage to the countries and firms involved . To save face, however, the British
Commissioner Brittan has announced that he will not hesitate to bring the question before the International
Labour Organization . Everyone knows that the WTO has powers, while the ILO -a moribund United Nations
body - has none . Everyone also knows that deciding to refer the matter to the ILO rather than the WTO is
tantamount to deciding to do nothing at all . It is a shameful decision based on considerations of profit alone, and
is completely unworthy of a civilized Europe .

Is the Council aware of this situation, and does it endorse these truly dangerous decisions ?

If not, will the Council take immediate action ?

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 23

Answer

( 24 April 1997 )

The Honourable Member will be aware that the Council attaches great importance to universal observance of
internationally recognized core labour standards, in particular those concerning child labour . The question of the
relationship between those core standards and the multilateral trade system was one of the subjects discussed at
the first WTO Ministerial Conference, held in Singapore from 9 to 13 December 1996 . The Ministerial
Declaration adopted at the Conference points out that the International Labour Organization ( ILO ) is the
competent body for setting and dealing with such standards, and affirms support for its work in promoting them .
It also reiterates the commitment of all the participants to observe internationally recognized core labour
standards .

The Declaration goes on to note that the economic growth and development fostered by increased trade and
further trade liberalization contribute to the promotion of these standards . It rejects the use of labour standards
for protectionist purposes and agrees that the comparative advantage of low-wage developing countries must in
no way be called into question .

Finally, the Declaration notes that the WTO and ILO Secretariats will continue their existing collaboration .

The ILO itself became involved in the campaign against child labour some ten years ago, reinforcing the
legislative and promotional activities it had long pursued in this area . Governments increasingly seek
international aid, witness the growing number of applications ( 447 programmes established in 1995 ) submitted to
the International Programme on the Elimination of Child Labour ( IPEC ), an extensive technical cooperation
venture launched by the International Labour Office ( ILO ) in 1992 . The ILO is also drawing up a new instrument
specifically concerned with harsh forms of child labour, which will replace Convention No 138 on the minimum
working age .

( 97 / C 217 / 33 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3466 / 96

by Hiltrud Breyer ( V ) to the Commission

(9 December 1996 )

Subject : Legal basis of the FACTT project

The very name of the FACTT project ( Familiarisation and Acceptance of Crops incorporating Transgenic
Technology ) describes the purpose of this project .

1 . What is the legal basis for the experiments carried out as part of the FACTT project ?

2 . Does the Commission agree that, in seeking acceptance for transgenic crops as part of the FACTT project,
the European Union is acting on behalf of private entrepreneurs ?

3 . What legislative provisions underlie the ' chicken experiments ', in which chickens are fed with genetically
modified rape-seed from the firm Plant Genetic Systems ( PGS )?

4 . Is the Commission aware that the authorization granted for the genetically modified rape-seed of PGS
prohibits feeding it to animals ?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

1 . The strains of transgenic rapeseed covered by the demonstration project fall under Council Directive
90 / 220 / EEC O of 23 April 1990 and Commission Decision 96 / 158 / EC of 6 February 1996 . The strain
( MS1 / RF1 ) used in the demonstration project received clearance on 28 February 1996 for placing on the market
for seed production but, pursuant to Council Directive 90 / 220 / EEC, the consent does not extend to use for human
food or animal feed .

No C 217 / 24 ΓΕΝ Official Journal of the European Communities 17.7 . 97

2 . The demonstration project in question involves using transgenic plant material permitted by Community
legislation . As is the case for all demonstration projects under the Framework Programme of Community
activities in the field of research and technological development, which aims to test on a realistic scale the
technical and economic viability of technological innovations, the participation of private companies is
envisaged .

3 . and 4 . In 1996, animal feed experiments on poultry were carried out in Belgium . On 24 May 1996, the
persons responsible for the project received authorization from the Belgian Ministry of Agriculture to use the oil
cakes produced from genetically modified rapeseed . In the case of the feed experiments on animals planned for

1997 in the United Kingdom, authorization was granted by the UK Ministry of Agriculture on 21 December
1995 . The Commission is examining the above authorizations to establish whether they comply with Directive
90 / 220 / EEC . It should also be noted that under this project marketing in the human and animal food chains is not
envisaged .

(') OJ L 117, 8.5.1990 .

( 97 / C 217 / 34 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3485 / 96

by Jose Barros Moura ( PSE ) to the Commission

(9 December 1996 )

Subject : The environment and the Alqueva project

Why has the Commission not yet made public the conclusions of the two environmental impact studies already
carried out on the Alqueva project — the first, which was started in February 1994 and completed in March 1995,
and the second, which was meant to be a sort of assessment of the first study, which confirmed its conclusions
and which was completed and jointly discussed in July 1996 ?

Since it is known that the above studies concluded that Community environmental legislation has not been
infringed and that, in particular, the provisions of Article 6 of Directive 92 / 43 (') observed what can be the
justification for the failure to grant official recognition for something which is decisive for a strategic project to

develop a region as deprived as the Alentejo ?

(') OJ L 206, 22.7.1992, p . 7 .

Answer given by Mrs Wulf-Mathies on behalf of the Commission

( 29 January 1997 )

The environmental impact assessment of the Alqueva project was carried out in 1994-95 in partnership with the
Portuguese authorities and was the subject of joint consultations, in both Spain and Portugal, between the
authorities and the local people in the area affected by the project, in accordance with Directive 85 / 337 / EEC on
the assessment of the effects of certain public and private projects on the environment (')• These consultations
took place after the Portuguese authorities received the final report on this assessment from the Commission . The
Commission considers that this procedure has been sufficient to justify disclosure of the assessment .

As regards the expert evaluation carried out during the first half of 1996, the Commission would like to stress that
it was conducted in close partnership with the Portuguese authorities and they have since received the final
report . Since this expert study confirms the importance of the main conclusions of the initial assessment, the
Commission has not considered it necessary to publish these conclusions separately .

As for progress on processing the dossier, as referred to in the second part of his question, the Commission would
refer the Honourable Member to the answer given to his oral question H-930 / 96 during the December 1996
part-session ( 2 ).

(') OJ L 175, 5.7.1985 .
0 Parliament debates ( December 1996 ).

17 . 7 . 97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 25

( 97 / C 217 / 35 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3545 / 96

by Jesús Cabezón Alonso ( PSE ) to the Council

( 12 December 1996 )

Subject : Peaceful transition in Cuba

How does the Council believe a peaceful transition to democracy in Cuba can be best encouraged ?

How does it believe the present Cuban regime can be induced to create a more open economy ?

Answer

(3 April 1997 )

The Honourable Member is referred to the answer to his question, No H-0988 / 96 given at Question Time on

13 December 1996 . The Council is of the opinion that its Common Position of 2 December 1996 represents the
best way to achieve the objectives of pluralist democracy and a more open economy .

( 97 / C 217 / 36 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3551 / 96

by Jesus Cabezón Alonso ( PSE ) and Juan Colino Salamanca ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 12 December 1996 )

Subject : Tax harmonization and welfare funding

Has the Commission given consideration to the major role of taxation in the funding of social benefits and of the

' welfare state '?

Does the Commission not consider it necessary and desirable to move towards a degree of tax harmonization at
Union level, if the various public welfare systems are to converge ?

( 97 / C 217 / 37 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3552 / 96

by Jesus Cabezón Alonso ( PSE ) and Juan Colino Salamanca ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 12 December 1996 )

Subject : Tax harmonization and the regions

At a time when the Commission and, to some extent, the Economic and Finance Council are working towards a
degree of tax harmonization at Union level, as a requirement arising logically from the single market and
ever-increasing economic integration, how does the Commission interpret and evaluate the fact that a certain
Member State operating a regionalized administrative and political structure is now proposing to transfer
legislative powers in the field of taxation to the regions, given that this could undermine the efforts being made
towards tax harmonization ?

Does the Commission not consider it necessary and desirable to move towards a degree of tax harmonization at
Union level, if the various public welfare systems are to converge ?

Joint answer

to Written Questions E-3551 / 96 and E-3552 / 96
given by Mr Monti on behalf of the Commission

( 18 February 1997 )

The structures of the systems of taxation and social security contributions vary widely from one Member State to
another . Financing of social expenditure is a matter for Member States . Some have preferred to finance social
expenditure mainly through social security contributions whilst others have chosen to tax-finance this
expenditure through the general budget . For the Community, the important point is that differences in the

No C 217 / 26 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

financing of public expenditure, including social protection, do not create distortions of competition nor result in
double taxation ( or contributions ) or no taxation ( or contributions ).

The Commission would like to draw attention to the fact that, with regard to taxes or contributions directly
assigned to the financing of social security schemes, cross-border problems are dealt with in Regulation ( EEC )
No 1408 / 7 1 (') on the coordination of the national social security schemes . In particular, this Regulation contains
precise rules ( see its Title II ) to determine which Member State 's legislation is applicable, with the aim of
avoiding conflicts of law resulting in double payment or no payment at all .

In March 1996, the Commission proposed a new and comprehensive view of taxation policies in the reflection
document ' Taxation in the European Union ' ( 2 ), which was welcomed by finance ministers at their meeting in
Verona in April 1 996 . The Florence European Council of June emphasised the essential contribution made by the
internal market to promote growth and employment and requested the Ecofin Council to submit a report on the
development of tax systems taking account of the need to create a tax environment that stimulates enterprise and
the creation of jobs and promote a more efficient environmental policy . The Dublin Council in December 1996
approved the continuation by the Commission of this comprehensive approach to taxation issues in a taxation
policy group, which will ensure that taxation policies are better geared towards achieving important Community
objectives, such as those spelled out in Florence, while at the same time protecting Member States ' fiscal bases
against harmful tax competition . It is likely that questions which will be examined in the taxation policy group
will include that of greater co-operation between tax authorities and that of financing social protection in the
Community .

(') OJ L 149, 5.7.1971, consolidated version OJ C 325, 10.12.1992 .
( 2 ) SEC(96)487 final .

( 97 / C 217 / 38 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3574 / 96

by Angela Billingham ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 17 December 1996 )

Subject : Leather measurement standards

According to the International Organization for Standardization ISO, the foot is defined as 0.3048m, which
means 1ft 2 is equivalent to 0.0929m 2 . Is the Commission aware that some Italian tanneries appear to be using a
locally defined foot of 0.300m, which makes 1ft 2 equivalent to 0.900m 2 ? This is 0.0029m 2 or 3.1% less than the
Imperial square foot . This is leading to problems and confusion in international trading in the leather industry,
since area measurements are known to be based on the 0.3m foot .

Is this against the principle of the single market, in that it is blocking the freedom of the movement of goods ? Are
the Italian tanneries breaching European international trading standards or law ?

Answer given by mr Bangemann on behalf of the Commission

(6 February 1997 )

Since 1971 metric units of the international system of units ( SI ) have been the legal system of units of
measurement within the Community . Directive 80 / 1 81 / EEC on units of measurements (') as amended by
Directives 85 / 1 / EEC ( 2 ) and 89 / 617 / EEC ( 3 ) sets out the legal units of measurement which must be used for
expressing quantities in everyday dealings . It also allows for supplementary units to be used until 31 December

1999 . These supplementary units may accompany the prescribed units but cannot predominate .

To eliminate any confusion, and in accordance with the terms of the directive, trade in leather should always be

specified in SI units in the first instance .

0 )
( 2 )
O

OJ L 39, 15.2.1980 .
OJ L 2, 3.1.1985 .
OJ L 357, 7.12.1982 .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 27

( 97 / C 217 / 39 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3582 / 96

by Frederik Willockx ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 17 December 1996 )

Subject : Taking part in procedures for the award of contracts to implement assignments

Can those ( natural or legal persons ) whose services have been retained by the European Commission for
drafting, researching or preparing a given assignment also take part in the procedures for the award of contracts
to implement that assignment ?

Can the above natural or legal persons take part in different but similar implementing assignments ?

Can undertakings that in one way or another are connected with those ( natural or legal persons ) whose services
have been retained by the European Commission for drafting, researching or preparing a given assignment also
take part in the procedures for the award of contracts to implement that assignment ?

Answer given by Mr Monti on behalf of the Commission

(3 February 1997 )

The Honourable Member 's questions relate to the so-called technical dialogue between contracting authorities
and candidates in tendering procedures in the field of public procurement .

Although they do not fall within the notion of contracting authorities within the meaning of the Community
public procurement directives, the European institutions have since 1978 applied the rules of these directives, by
virtue of Article 56 of the Financial Regulation of 21 December 1977 ( lastly amended by Regulation ( EC,
Euratom, CSC ) No 2335 / 95 (').

Moreover, since the Community is party to the agreement on government procurements, which entered into force
on 1 January 1996, the European institutions are bound to apply the rules of this agreement . Article VI, fourth
paragraph, relates to the technical dialogue and reads as follows : ' Entities shall not seek or accept, in a manner
which would have the effect of precluding competition, advice which may be used in the preparation of
specifications for a specific procurement from a firm that may have a commercial interest in the procurement .'
This article renders explicit what already follows implicitly from general principles of Community law and from
recent judgements of the Court of justice .

The rule concerning this technical dialogue means that contracting authorities may not seek or accept advice on
the preparation of technical specifications from those having a commercial interest, where this would have the
effect of precluding competition . This prohibition therefore is not absolute, but is subject to the condition that, by
seeking or accepting this advice, competition will be precluded . Contracting authorities may seek or accept such
advice in relation to a specific contract from undertakings which could subsequently participate in the award
procedure, where this would not preclude competition .

The Honourable Member asks whether undertakings, which have been retained by the Commission for drafting
or preparing the technical specifications of a given contract, may take part in the subsequent tendering procedure
for this contract . The answer depends on whether or not their participation would prejudice the principle of equal
treatment, notably by precluding competition .

O OJ L 240, 7.10.1995 .

( 97 / C 217 / 40 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3583 / 96

by Johanna Maii-Weggen ( PPE ) and Arie Oostlander ( PPE ) to the Council

( 12 December 1996 )

Subject : Netherlands reservations concerning Enfopol Document 159 of 6 November 1996

On Thursday 21 November 1996, the Netherlands Minister of Justice forwarded to the Netherlands Second
Chamber Council Enfopol Document 159 of 6 November 1996 with a statement to the effect that the reservations
submitted by the Netherlands had wrongly been omitted from that document .

No C 217 / 28 EN 1 Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

Those reservations were stated to have been submitted through official channels and in good time and should
consequently have been set out in the document concerned .

Can the Council state when and through what intermediary the Netherlands submitted its first formal reservations
concerning that document ?

Were the reservations general or specific ? If the latter, on what specific points were reservations submitted ?

Can the Council state whether any such reservations were resubmitted at a later stage, and, if so, when such
reservations were included in the draft version of the Enfopol document ?

Answer

( 24 April 1997 )

Documents under examination by the Council 's subordinate bodies remain, by definition, working documents
until Coreper passes them on to the Council . They seek to reflect as faithfully as possible the positions of
delegations which stated their views during preparatory proceedings .

In the case in point, the draft Joint Action concerning the approximation of the laws and practices of the Member
States of the European Union to combat drug addiction and to prevent and combat illegal drug addiction and to
prevent and combat illegal drug trafficking, which the French Government placed before the Council 's
subordinate bodies on 16 October 1996, was thoroughly discussed by the bodies responsible for preparing
Council proceedings in the fields of Justice and Home Affairs . It was only after a wide-ranging debate by the
Ministers for Justice and Home Affairs that, on 17 December 1996, the Council adopted the Joint Action as
published in the Offical Journal of the European Communities on 31 December 1996 ( OJ L 342, p. 6 ).

Regarding the Netherlands delegation 's reservations referred to in the questions, it is not for the Council to
comment on positions adopted during preparatory proceedings and debates by one of its members . The
deliberations of the Council are covered by the obligation of professional secrecy in accordance with Article 5(1 )
of the Council 's rules of procedure .

In any event, the attention of the Honourable Members is drawn to the provisions of Council Decision 93 / 73 1 / EC
on public access to Council documents ( OJ L 340, 31.12.1 993, p. 43 ) under which anybody may request access to
the said documents and the request will be examined under the conditions laid down by that Decision .

( 97 / C 217 / 41 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3595 / 96

by Frank Vanhecke ( NI ) to the Commission

( 17 December 1996 )

Subject : Participation by European citizens in elections to the European Parliament in Member States of which

they are not nationals

In his answer to my written question E-33 14 / 95 ('), Commissioner Monti said that the Commission was

' currently ' ( 16 January 1996 ) collecting statistical information on the number of Union citizens who exercised
their right to vote and to stand as a candidate in their Member State of residence ( of which they are not nationals )
in the June 1994 European Parliament elections .

This relates to application of Directive 93 / 109 / EC ( 2 ).

The option of voting and standing as a candidate created by the Directive has always been presented by the
Commission, for example, as the desire of a large number of European citizens .

Does the Commission now have this statistical information, broken down by nationality and by Member state ?

What percentage of the persons concerned actually exercised their right to vote and stand as candidates ?

(■)
( 2 )

OJ C 91, 27.3.1996, p . 58 .
OJ L 329, 30.12.1993, p . 34 .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 29

Answer given by Mr Monti on behalf of the Commission

( 28 February 1997 )

Further to the reply to the Honourable Member 's Written Question E-33 1 4 / 95, the Commission confirms that it is
still collecting from Member States the statistical information on the number of Union citizens who exercised
their voting rights in their Member State of residence .

The exercise has been extended in order to include, in the forthcoming report to the Parliament and the Council
on the application of Directive 93 / 109 / EC, the data relating to the first European Parliament elections held in
Sweden in September 1995 and in Austria and Finland in October 1996 .

( 97 / C 217 / 42 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3640 / 96

by Jean                - Yves Le Gallou ( NI ) to the Commission

(3 January 1997 )

Subject : Budget heading B3-440 : Combating drug abuse

Can the Commission provide a breakdown of the figures, for each association and activity subsidised, for the
subsidies granted in the financial year 1995, under budget heading B3-440 : Combating drug abuse ?

Answer given by Mr Santer on behalf of the Commission

( 21 February 1997 )

The subsidies granted by the Commission for 1995 under heading B3-440 totalled ECU 649 769 . They were for
measures to implement the 1995-99 action plan to combat drugs and measures to implement Community
legislation on drug precursors . Details of the subsidies are set out below .

1 . SOS Drugs International, France : ECU 35 000

Financial aid for publishing and circulating the proceedings of a seminar on the various aspects of preventive
and enforcement measures and treatment of drug addicts .

2 . Conference on drugs policy in Europe, organized jointly by the Commission, Parliament and the Council
Presidency : ECU 21 687

Payment of mission expenses of experts attending the conference .

3 . Financial action group on money laundering ( GAFI ): ECU 20 000 .

Financial aid for the group 's activities .

4 . Cassino University, Italy : ECU 4 000

Financial aid to put on a multimedia show on the effect of drugs on the brain during the conference
mentioned at 2 .

5 . Second seminar on drug precursors : ECU 22 585

Financing of this event, which was organized by the Commission and the Greek authorities in Athens in
October 1995 to train staff responsible for implementing the relevant Community legislation in the Member
States .

6 . Finnish national authorities : ECU 130 668

Supply of mobile X-ray equipment to strengthen the Community 's external borders against the diversion of
drug precursors .

7 . Swedish national authorities : ECU 215 090

Supply of equipment required for the computer networks set up by the Commission to monitor the diversion
of drug precursors .

8 . Austrian national authorities : ECU 200 739

Supply of equipment required for the computer networks set up by the Commission to monitor the diversion
of drug precursors .

No c 217 / 30 ΓΕΝ Official Journal of the European Communities 7 . 7 . 97

( 97 / C 217 / 43 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3760 / 96

by Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Commission

(6 January 1997 )

Subject : Airport network

With reference to the report on the guidelines relating to the trans-European airport network ( SEC(94 )

1 863 / INS94         - 1 863 ) and in view of the growing importance of interconnections between air transport and other
transport networks, responsibility for which lies with authorities other than airport authorities ( in particular
regional authorities ), would the Commission consider extending the measures relating to environmental
compatibility and links with the rail network to regional airports with spare capacity which could be used more
effectively ?

Answer given by Mr Kmnock on behalf of the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Decision 1692 / 96 / EC ( ) on Community guidelines for the development of trans-european transport networks
was adopted on 23 July 1996 . It is now the basis for any component of the network, including the airports
component . Under Article 21 of the Decision, a Commission report must be presented in July 1999 at the latest
indicating whether a revision of the guidelines is needed .

Annex II, section 6 of the Decision concerns identification of projects of common interest for airports ( 2 ).
Chapter II, point III relates to the reduction of nuisances generated by airport activities . These measures concern
international and Community connecting points, since these network components encounter the most
environmental problems . In point IV the development of airport access, and specifically the connection to the rail
network, also directly concerns the international and Community connecting points . Experience indicates that a
rail link to a regional component of the network ( with annual volume of passenger traffic between 500 000 and
900 000 passengers a year ) will be difficult to justify economically .

However, in certain duly justified special cases, Community measures could be extended to the other connecting
points ( 3 ).

(') OJ L 228, 9.9.1996 .
(-) Projects of common interest could benefit of Community financial assistance through Regulation ( EC ) No 2236 / 95, laying down general
rules for the granting of Community financial aid in the field of trans-european networks — OJ L 228, 23.9.1995 .
(') Footnote to Annex II, section 6 : ' airports ' of the Decision 1692 / 96 / EC .

( 97 / C 217 / 44 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3761 / 96

by Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Commission

(6 January 1997 )

Subject : Mountainous regions

With reference to the European Charter of Mountainous Regions CG / GT MONT ( 1 )3 ( CPLRE document ), it may
be said that the mountainous regions of Europe play an important role from the environmental, economic, social
and cultural points of view and that they also represent a particularly valuable heritage which must be enhanced
and safeguarded . It is also clear that, in view of the particular nature of their situation, their characteristics as
border and interregional areas and the difficulty — precisely because of this kind of fragmentation — of
implementing coherent policies, mountainous areas require a common policy . Could the Commission not devise
a European policy for mountainous areas and consider, with the help of experts, the terms under which the
guidelines contained in the European Charter of Mountainous Regions could be incorporated into European law ?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

(4 February 1997 )

The Commission shares the Honourable Member s opinion that the mountainous regions of Europe play many
roles and that it is in the public interest that they continue to do so .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 31

The Commission is aware of the difficult situation and the specific problems encountered in mountain areas . This
is why the Community introduced specific measures, such as the compensatory allowances and the more
favourable conditions granted under Council Regulation ( EEC ) No 2328 / 91 on improving the efficiency of
agricultural structures ('). The agri-environmental programmes for which aid is granted under Regulation ( EEC )
No 2078 / 92 on agricultural production methods compatible with the requirements of the protection of the
environment and the maintenance of the countryside ( 2 ) supplement this support mechanism for farming, while
assistance for more general development has been granted by the Structural Funds since 1989 in regions lagging
behind in their development or undergoing industrial conversion and in rural areas, all of which can include
mountainous areas, and, more recently, in the Arctic regions .

These various Community measures to assist mountainous areas all partake of the spirit of the European Charter
of Mountainous Regions to which the Honourable Member refers and constitute a coherent approach, the
realization of which largely depends on the priorities of the Member States . The Charter was drawn up by the
Council of Europe in February 1995 . Moreover, a series of initiatives and memoranda on mountain and hill
farming have since been submitted to the Commission . A thorough analysis of all the proposals made to it,
including those in the European Charter of Mountainous Regions, is now underway within the Commission . The
results of this examination will certainly be taken into consideration in the current discussion on the future of
rural development policy . Since mountainous regions are among the most fragile of Europe 's rural areas, there is
no doubt that they will be included in this policy .

O OJ L 218, 6.8.1991 .
( 2 ) OJ L 215, 30.7.1992 .

( 97 / C 217 / 45 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3768 / 96

by Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Council

( 18 December 1996 )

Subject : Economic development

With reference to the proposal for a Council regulation establishing a Cohesion Fund and the proposal for a
Council regulation laying down detailed rules for implementing the regulation establishing a Cohesion Fund
( COM(93)699 / AVC 0943 (')), it is to be hoped that, in every region, the right balance will be found between
projects to be supported in the field of environmental protection and those relating to transport infrastructure .

Would the Council ensure that the allocation of resources to the Cohesion Fund does not lead to a reduction in

Objective 1 operations for countries which are not eligible for the Fund, and would it consider a greater degree of
flexibility when applying the lower limit of ECU 10 million per project ?

(') OJ C 39, 9.11994, p . 6 .

Answer

(3 April 1997 )

When the Council adopted the Regulation establishing the Cohesion Fund on 16 May 1994 ('), following the
assent of the European Parliament, it laid down the principles governing the Fund and the framework for its
operation .

The Honourable Member 's attention is drawn to Article 10(2 ) of that Regulation, which stipulates that 'a suitable
balance shall be struck between projects in the field of the environment and projects relating to transport
infrastructure .'

Flexibility in applying the ECU 10 million threshold for eligibility of projects for the Cohesion Fund is also
provided for in the basic rules, inasmuch as paragraph 3 of the same Article stipulates that ' projects or groups of
projects costing less than this may be approved in duly justified cases .'

No C 217 / 32 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17.7.97

It must be pointed out that the Council has entrusted the management of the Fund to the Commission, which acts
within the limits of the rules in force .

With regard to the Honourable Member 's fears that the resources allocated to the Cohesion Fund may lead to a
reduction in Objective 1 operations for countries which are not eligible for the Fund, it should be recalled that
under the 1993 to 1999 financial perspective annexed to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 29 October 1993, the
resources of the Structural Funds and those of the Cohesion Fund are shown under two completely separate
subheadings .

(') OJ L 130 . 25.5.1994 .

( 97 / C 217 / 46 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3926 / 96

by Cristiana Muscardini ( NI ) to the Council

(6 January 1997 )

Subject : Crisis in European society

The ' Stone of Scone ', the symbol of the union between Scotland and England, has returned from London to
Edinburgh and this has inspired the Scots with secessionist ideas . Demonstrations by slovenly members of a
quaint but worrying party, aggravated by an unsuccessful campaign for moral reform, are encouraging those who
would like to see Italy split up . A despicable party system, which clings to the idea of breaking up the power of
the State shows the scale of the crisis in Belgium, which in the run-up to the amendment of the Constitution in

1999, is faced with the gloomy prospect of an actual split between the Walloons and the Flemings .

These are all manifestations of the state of profound malaise affecting contemporary European society, which is
caught between the Maastricht criteria and the most unlikely calls for autonomy .

Can the Council do its utmost to take all the necessary steps to ensure that politics, justice and government are
finally freed of petty party concerns and can thus provide the means of overcoming the crisis ?

Can it also put an end to the fragmentation by forcefully reaffirming the concept of the indivisibility of the nation
state as an essential precondition for the process of European Union ?

Answer

(3 April 1997 )

The Council fulfils the functions bestowed on it by the Treaty on European Union and by the Community
treaties . No provision in those treaties permits it to involve itself in matters relating to the organization of the
internal constitutional order of any of the Member States .

( 97 / C 217 / 47 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3928 / 96

by Mair Morgan ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 10 January 1997 )

Subject : EAGGF budget

What is the current EAGGF budget and what proportion is presently attributed to the Guarantee and Guidance

Sections ?

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 33

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

(3 February 1997 )

The budget information sought by the Honourable Member is given below :

1997 budget for the European Agricultural Guidance and Guarantee Fund :

Amount ( MECU ) %

Guarantee Section (')
Guidance Section ( payment appropriations ) ( 3 )
Guidance Section ( commitment appropriations ) ( 3 )

Total EAGGF ( payment appropriations )
Total EAGGF ( commitment appropriations )

(') Not including 500 MECU entered in the monetary reserve .
( 2 ) Share of total EAGGF payment appropriations .
(') Including Community support frameworks and transitional measures .
( 4 ) Share of total EAGGF commitment appropriations .

( 97 / C 217 / 48 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3929 / 96

by Mair Morgan ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 10 January 1997 )

Subject : CAP resource allocations

40 805.0

3 613.5

4 056.1

44 418.5

44 861.1

91.9 ( 2 )

8.1 ( 2 )

9.0 ( 4 )

Prior to the 1992 CAP reform agreement, 80% of resources under the Guarantee Section of the budget were
received by just 20% of farmers . What is the current position ?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

(7 February 1997 )

In its communication to the Council of 1 February 1991 entitled ' The Development and Future of the CAP ' ('),
the Commission, as the Honourable Member states, acknowledged that 80% of the assistance from the European
Agricultural Guidance and Guarantee Fund ( EAGGF ) went to about 20% of holdings . This allocation of EAGGF
funding was the result of several converging factors . As the communication pointed out, the system did not take
sufficient account of the income of the vast majority of small and medium-sized family farms . EAGGF
assistance represents only one part of the total support provided by Europeans to European agriculture . Some
common organizations of the market provide support through mechanisms that have little or no impact on the
budget . Examples include quotas ( milk and sugar ) and protection at the border ( most common market
organizations, including the main Mediterranean products ).

In line with its communication, the Commission submitted proposals which included concrete measures to
modulate the aid, particularly in the field crops ( 2 ) and beef and veal 2 sectors . The Council did not agree to
everything the Commission suggested in this regard, thus small-scale arable crop producers are not required to
set aside land to qualify for compensatory aid and small-scale beef producers do not have to comply with specific
requirements on forage areas . The Council is currently examining proposals to reform the common organization
of the markets in fruit and vegetables ( 3 ) and wine ( 4 ) and the Commission will shortly present a document on the
reform of the common organization of the olive oil market .

The Commission does not yet have detailed or accurate information on a European scale regarding the current
distribution of EAGGF aid to farms . Before the reform, this aid was distributed to a very great extent in
proportion to actual production . The Commission does not have figures on distribution by size of farm and the
legislation makes no provision requiring the Member States to send such information to the Commisssion .

No C 217 / 34 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

However, as some modulation has already been introduced in various common market organizations, the 1 992
reform is a step along the road to a more equitable distribution of public aid among farmers . Furthermore, by
making public aid for agriculture more visible, the reform has contributed enormously to creating the conditions
in which a rational and controlled debate can take place on the pros and cons of the various modulation
mechanisms that might be introduced .

The Commission has shown on several occasions — most notably in its document on agricultural strategy
submitted to the Madrid European Council in December 1995 — a willingness to move towards an integrated
rural policy that takes full account of both issues related to the agricultural markets and social, rural and
environmental concerns . It relies greatly on the help and support of Parliament to complete this difficult task .

(') COM(9 1)100 final .
( 2 ) COM(9 1)379 final .
O Regulation ( EC ) No 2296 / 96, 28.10.1996, OJ L 297, 21.11.1996 .
( 4 ) OJ C 194, 16.7.1994 .

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 49 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3932 / 96

by Undine-Uta Bloch von Blottnitz ( V ) to the Commission

( 10 January 1997 )

Subject : Chernobyl sarcophagus

On 18 September 1996, Commissioners Bjerregaard and van den Broek published a statement concerning the
instability of the sarcophagus which is currently providing only inadequate protection for the damaged
Chernobyl reactor . The Ukrainian authorities were urged to provide more information on the reactor and its weak
points . It was also pointed out that, in signing the Memorandum of Understanding, the Ukrainian authorities had
committed themselves to supplying all the necessary information to carry out a feasibility study on improving the
safety of the sarcophagus . The conclusions of the feasibility study were to be available by the end of November .

1 . What are the detailed findings of the feasibility study ?

2 . What precise conclusions has the Commission drawn from those findings ?

3 . What is the Commission 's estimate of the costs involved in making the damaged Chernobyl reactor safe ?

Answer given by Mr Van den Broek on behalf of the Commission

( 25 February 1997 )

The results of the study were based on the available data and a common effort of Ukrainian and Western experts .
They include an analysis of the available information and facts on the situation at Chernobyl unit 4, analysis of
the different approaches with respect to the remedial actions and a recommended course of actions . One
important issue was to speed up the extraction, transport and storage of the long lived fuel containing material .

A course of action with a step by step approach was proposed by the international expert team . Phase 1 covered
short term measures addressing the immediate risks and included structural stabilisation, monitoring and
improving industrial and nuclear safety . Phase 2 covered the preparation of the transformation of unit 4 into an
ecologically safe system with a creation of shielding and accesses, construction of an optimised ( light ) new
shelter in order to allow a partial deconstruction and an optional partial retrieval of fuel containing mass ( FCM )
to be decided after completion of the data basis and a detailed feasibility study . Phase 3 covered the
transformation of unit 4 into an ecologically safe system for a long period of time, until final removal of FCM
could be undertaken ( technical feasibility and financial incidences would be assessed in advance ).

Over 10 to 15 years the estimated costs of the recommended course of actions is about 560 MECU without partial
early removal of accessible FCM . The proposed recommendation is now under discussion between the Ukrainian
authorities and the G7 nuclear safety working group . They have established a joint working group to that effect .

17.7.97 EN | Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 35

( 97 / C 217 / 50 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3935 / 96

by Nikitas Kaklamanis ( UPE ) to the Commission

( 10 January 1997 )

Subject : Selection of staff at the EAEMP

The European Agency for the Evaluation of Medicinal Products ( EAEMP ) located in London frequently holds
competitions to select staff .

According to the information I have received from the EAEMP ' s personnel department, there are only two Greek
temporary members of staff out of a total of 120 officials at the Agency .

What criteria are used to select staff ? What is the staff 's breakdown by nationality and how many Greek nationals
have passed the interview procedure during the last two years and are on the list of successful applicants ?

Answer given by Mr Bangemann on behalf of the Commission

( 14 February 1997 )

The European Agency for the evaluation of medicinal products ( EAEMP ) was established by Council Regulation
( EEC ) 2309 / 93 of 22 July 1993 (') and opened on 1 January 1995 .

The Agency publishes all its grade A and B vacancies in the Official Journal . The staff have the status of
temporary staff . The selection procedure is based on the procedure for recruiting Community officials, which is
very rigorous .

On 31 December 1996 there were 68 temporary staff working at the Agency . Of these, 45, including 2 Greek
nationals, were grade A. Since the beginning of 1997 the Agency has also been covering the expenses of a
top-level seconded national expert from Greece .

(') OJ L 214, 24.8.1993 .

( 97 /C 217 / 51 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3951 / 96

by Gianni Tamino ( V ) to the Commission

( 10 January 1997 )

Subject : Rearing of animals for slaughter — bilateral agreements

With reference to the rearing of animals for slaughter, what degree of protection of animals is provided for in the
preparation and conclusion of bilateral agreements between the European Union and the USA, Canada,
Australia, New Zealand and possibly other third countries ?

What stage has been reached in the relevant negotiations ?

Does the Commission intend to obtain appropriate specific guarantees of compliance with European standards ?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 17 February 1997 )

The Commission is in negotiation with a number of third countries with a view to concluding agreements on
veterinary matters . An agreement has already been concluded with New Zealand and several others are at
advanced stages . The agreements in general do not cover animal welfare aspects, since this is not their primary
objective . However, all agreements coptain provisions that their scope can be extended to include these matters if
this is mutually acceptable to the parties involved .

No C 217 / 36 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

( 97 / C 217 / 52 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3960 / 96

by Honorio Novo ( GUE / NGL ) to the Commission

( 10 January 1997 )

Subject : Full utilization of fisheries quotas

It is a known fact that some Member States do not make full use of the fisheries quotas allotted to them under the
internal allocation arrangements carried out following fisheries agreements with third countries or following the
gaining of access by the Community fleet to international waters .

It is also known that the failure by these Member States to use their quotas in full is a regular occurrence, while
other Member States have problems in keeping their national fleets occupied, as a result of the small quotas
allotted to them under the allocation arrangements .

Since it would entail no increase in the fishing effort, the fisheries quotas allocated globally to the EU should
surely be fully utilized, if only for internal economic and social reasons, which, as indicated above, does not
always occur at present .

It would therefore seem reasonable to accept the principle of internal transfers, either total or partial, of any
fisheries quotas which Member States are regularly failing to utilize . Transfers of this kind could be carried out
on the basis of arrangements to be devised and laid down by the Commission, without necessarily posing any
threat to the ownership of the quotas .

What is the Commission 's view of this matter ? Will it take steps to allow and lay down rules on possible transfers
of unutilized fisheries quotas between Member States ?

Answer given by Mrs Bonino on behalf of the Commission

( 12 February 1997 )

Community law provides mechanisms to tackle the problem of under-utilised fishing quotas . Article 9 of Council
Regulation ( EC ) No 3760 / 92 establishing a Community system for fisheries and aquaculture (') offers Member

States sufficient room to reach satisfactory arrangements among themselves . These mechanisms are particularly
flexible due to the fact that quota exchanges and transfers made on that basis need not be fully reciprocal in terms
of fish .

Furthermore, in the framework of the conclusion of recent fisheries agreements with third countries, clauses have
been inserted in the relevant Council decisions which allow unused or under-used fishing possibilities to be
offered to other Member States . In this context, reference can be made to the recent fisheries agreements with
Morocco and Mauritania .

On the other hand, under-utilisation of fishing possibilities may have various and often complex reasons .
Therefore, the Court of justice stated, in its judgement of 13 October 1992 ( Case C-63 / 93 ), that under the concept
of ' relative stability ', under-utilisation alone offers no valid motive for the re-allocation of the fishing
possibilities concerned . It should also be noted that, in the context of multilateral fisheries agreements such as the
Northwest Atlantic fisheries organisation ( NAFO ), re-allocations of that kind might induce other contracting
parties to reopen discussions on established distribution keys . Such developments would obviously run counter
to the interests of the Community .

Any re-allocation of unused or under-used fishing possibilities can only partially and temporarily solve a more
fundamental problem which is the imbalance between available fishing possibilities and an excess of fishing
capacity . Permanent and comprehensive solutions should therefore be sought within the Community 's structural
policy and with the help of the appropriate structural measures which aim at re-establishing the balance in
question .

(') OJ L 389, 31.12.1992 .

17 . 7 . 97 I EN 1 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 37

( 97 / C 217 / 53 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3961 / 96

by Honório Novo ( GUE / NGL ) to the Commission

( 10 January 1997 )

Subject : Community funding received by the company RIOPELE

RIOPELE is a large textile company located in Famalicão, in the district of Braga .

The company has been making significant job reductions . Of the approximately 5000 employees who worked
there some years ago, around 2300 / 2400 remain . In the last few months alone, the company has reduced the
number of jobs by around 500 by means of contract terminations by mutual agreement and apparently very low
redundancy payments ( ESC 300 000 to 400 000 ).

RIOPELE is said to have received Community funding during the first CSF and also to have submitted
applications for funding under the second CSF ( PEDIP II ), which have apparently recently been approved in the
form of an overall amount of nearly ESC 14 billion up to 1999, of which ESC 3.4 billion were made available a
very short while ago .

A few days after the public announcement that these funds were to be provided, RIOPELE informed
94 employees that their contracts were being terminated without any redundancy payments at all .

We can assume that all the Community funding allocated to RIOPELE envisaged a redundancy programme to
deal with the effects of industrial modernization and restructuring .

What funding was allocated to RIOPELE, under the first CSF and under the second CSF ? Did this funding
assume that the volume of work would continue at the same level ? If job losses were or are being envisaged, did
the Community funding include amounts specifically intended to deal with the social problems arising from such
job losses ? If so, what were the overall and the individual amounts ?

Answer given by Mrs Wulf-Mathies on behalf of the Commission

( 20 February 1997 )

The Commission informs the Honourable Member that the Riopele company has received a number of financial
incentives under the first Community Support Framework ( CSF ) ( from the Sinpedip and Siure aid schemes ) as
well as under the second CSF .

A notification of the part-financing of a further Riopele investment project is currently being examined by the
Commission . This project is to be be financed under the IMIT programme ( initiative for the modernization of the
Portuguese textile and clothing industry ). The Commission has yet to approve it .

( 97 / C 217 / 54 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3962 / 96

by Jose Barros Moura ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 10 January 1997 )

Subject : Water resources in the Iberian Peninsula

Can Commissioner Wulf-Mathies explain why the report on water resources commissioned by DG XVI from the
Montgomery Watson consultancy and financed by the Cohesion Fund has not yet been completed ?

It is incomprehensible that a report which was in the final stages of compilation has not been completed — when
important interests requiring protection at Community level are involved . It is also unacceptable to allow public
money to be wasted .

Answer given by Mrs Wulf-Mathies on behalf of the Commission

( 24 February 1997 )

The consultant referred to by the Honourable Member presented the conclusions of his report on water resources
in the Iberian peninsula at the end of 1996 . The conclusions of the report engage only the responsibility of the
author . The Commission is studying it with a view to applying the findings to projects submitted, in particular the
Alqueva project .

No C 217 / 38 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 55 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3970 / 96

by Nikitas Kaklamanis ( UPE ) to the Commission

( 14 January 1997 )

Subject : Discrimination against technicians with higher education

Technicians with higher education throughout the European Union are organized in uniform bodies ( the national
associations of engineers ) — by Member State — which have legal personality under public law .

These associations are affiliated to a scientific trade union body entitled the European Federation of National
Engineering Associations ( FEANI ) whose headquarters are in Paris .

The only exception to this arrangement is to be found in Greece where approximately 50% of technicians with
higher education have no representation at all and remain outside the organizations referred to above .

Graduate engineers of the TEI, for example, the equivalent of graduates of German Fachhochschulen and holders
of Bachelor degrees etc, are excluded from the National Association of Engineers which operates under the name
of the Technical Chamber of Greece and are not, of course, represented in FEANI or in related organizations or
corresponding bodies in the European Union .

The effect of this situation is that only members of the Technical Chamber of Greece can be awarded the title of

' '
European Engineer ( EUR . ING ), leaving 50% of working Greek technicians with higher education ineligible .

Is the Commission aware of this situation and what steps will it take to obviate the repercussions of this peculiar
situation affecting Greek technicians ?

Answer given by Mr Monti on behalf of the Commission,

( 27 February 1997 )

There are no specific rules and regulations at Community level for the majority of professions ( with the
exception of the ' sectoral ' Directives, which contain certain minimum requirements and are primarily concerned
with the medical profession ). Regulation of access to and pursuit of professions is the responsibility of the
Member States . The fact that holders of certain professional qualifications cannot register with certain
professional associations cannot, as such, be regarded as discrimination under Community law .

Furthermore, the title of ' European Engineer ' awarded by the European Federation of National Engineering
Associations ( FEANI ) is a private title awarded by a private body . The fact that certain qualified professionals are
not able to hold such a title does not constitute a breach of Community law either .

The situation described does not constitute an infringement of the freedom of movement of the holders of the
professional qualifications, which is governed by the relevant Community law, and in particular by the general
system for the recognition of higher-education diplomas . Providing certain conditions are met, this system is
applicable to all professions not covered by a specific Directive . This is equally so in the case of the technical
professions .

The Directives that established this system are Directive 89 / 48 / EEC on a general system for the recognition of
higher-education diplomas awarded on completion of professional education and training of at least three years '
duration ('), and Directive 92 / 51 / EEC on a second general system for the recognition of professional education
and training to supplement Directive 89 / 48 / EEC ( 2 ). Whether one or the other Directive should be applied in a
specific case depends on the level of the qualification required for entry into the profession in question . More
particularly, the first Directive covers university-level education and training, while the second covers
qualifications awarded on completion of professional education and training of a secondary or post-secondary
level or technical training of at least one years ' duration ( one or two years of further education / training after
obtaining the equivalent of A-levels / the baccalaureat ), none of which are covered by Directive 89 / 48 / EEC .

The system applies to all regulated professions in each Member State ; regulated professions are those to which
access is subject, by virtue of laws or administrative provisions, to the possession of a diploma . Qualifications are
required to be recognized in cases where it has been established that the professional activity for which the
migrant has been trained in the Member State from which he / she comes is the same as that which he / she wishes
to pursue in the host Member State . The system does not oblige Member States to regulate the pursuit of
professions which could be covered by the Directives, nor does it require them to co-ordinate the training for
such professions . The scope of these Directives goes no further than simply specifying the minimum
requirements to be fulfilled by an applicant in order for his qualifications to be recognized . Member States retain

the right to determine the minimum level of qualifications required for entry into or pursuit of a given profession .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 39

In addition, the Directives provide for compensation measures ( the option of taking an aptitude test or
completing an adaptation period ) in order to remedy the substantial disparities that may exist between different
professional qualifications . In order for the system to apply, the migrant must be a ' fully qualified professional '
in his or her Member State of origin ; this means that, in addition to having obtained the appropriate diploma, the
applicant must also have completed all the relevant procedures and steps necessary to entitle him / her to exercise
his or her chosen profession in a fully-qualified capacity in the Member State from which he / she comes .

(') OJ L 19, 24.1.1989 .
( 2 ) OJ L 209, 24.7.1992 .

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 56 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3972 / 96

by Alexandros Alavanos ( GUE / NGL ) to the Commission

( 14 January 1997 )

Subject : Wind farm at Marmari ( Evvia )

In its reply of 27 July 1995 to my question No . E      - 1857 / 95 (') concerning the substandard operation of the
Marmari farm in Evvia, the Commission stated, among other things, that it had already asked the Greek
authorities for detailed information on the running of every wind farm financed to date . It also stated that ' The
Commission reserves the right to decide .... on whatever measures '.

17 months have already passed since that answer . Will the Commission therefore say :

1 . what further information it has on the running of the wind farm at Marmari, Evvia, and

2 . what measures it has taken to ensure that Community funds are being used effectively ?

(') OJ C 270, 16.10.1995, p . 60 .

Answer given by Mrs Wulf-Mathies on behalf of the Commission

( 28 February 1997 )

According to the information available to the Commission, the Marmari wind park in Evvia is not operational as
a result of technical defects which have not yet been repaired, mainly because of the dissolution of the
consortium responsible for constructing the park, following the bankruptcy of one of the two partners .

The Greek authorities have assured the Commission that the damaged units are now being repaired .

Since the Member State confirms that the wind park will be repaired and put into operation, the Commission sees
no reason to intervene at this stage . The Commission will continue to follow the matter until the the park is again
operational .

( 97 / C 217 / 57 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4000 / 96

by Miguel Arias Canete ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 14 January 1997 )

Subject : Control of the olive oil aid system

In its replies to the observations of the Court of Auditors in its annual report on the financial year 1995 (') the
Commission says that it has threatened to suspend payments to Member States in which there were control
failings and proposed that Greece and Spain should adopt a range of measures to cut the risks arising from the
failings observed .

Can the Commission explain what the recommended measures comprise, and what is the present situation with
regard to their adoption by the Member States concerned ?

(') OJ C 340, 12.11.1996, p . 1 .

No C 217 / 40 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

(7 February 1997 )

Having noted the lack or inadequacy of basic controls as provided for by the rules concerning production aid for
olive oil, and having also come to the conclusion that, on the whole, management and control procedures in the
two Member States in question could not offer adequate guarantees against the risk of fraud and irregularity, the
Commission has proposed a series of improvements, most notably that :

— coordination between the various parties involved in the system be tightened, appropriate and comprehen ­
sive national instructions be adopted, sanctions be rigorously applied against operators if the authorities
detect irregularities and ;

— spot checks on producers be stepped up in view of the lack of available data from the olive cultivation
register and centralized computer files, all the administrative checks on the requests for aid required by
Community legislation be carried out, uniform criteria be laid down with a view to detecting abnormal olive
and olive oil yields, and checks on the mills and producer organizations be tightened .

The Commission is closely monitoring the implementation of these measures . Both Member States have made
some progress, but much is still to be done . The Commission will take account of the need for improvements
when presenting the reform of the common organization of the market in olive oil .

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 58 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4003 / 96

by Hiltrud Breyer ( V ) to the Council

(9 January 1997 )

Subject : Development of the River Danube

1 . Has the Council of Ministers approved the Convention on the Protection and Sustainable Use of the
Danube ? If not, why not ?

2 . If the Convention has already been approved : Is the Council of Ministers aware that the planned
development of the Danube involving the construction of dams between Straubing and Vilshofen runs counter to
the international commitments entered into by the Federal Government and the Free State of Bavaria in the
Danube action plan and the Convention on the Protection of the Danube ?

Answer

(3 April 1997 )

It is not for the Council to approve the Convention referred to by the Honourable Member . It is, however,
responsible for deciding on the conclusion thereof by the Community, and it may do so now that the Opinions of
the European Parliament and of the Economic and Social Committee are available .

Furthermore, the Council is not aware of the development projects mentioned by the Honourable Member .

( 97 / C 217 / 59 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4014 / 96

by Ria Oomen-Ruiiten ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 14 January 1997 )

Subject : The problem of flooding

The following appropriations have been made available under Community initiatives to tackle the cross-border
problem of flooding :

— ECU 100 million under Interreg lie for the period 1995-1999,

— ECU 30 million under FEDER ( Article 10 ) and EAGGF ( Article 8 ) for pilot projects .

17.7.97 r EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 41

1 . What projects have been submitted to the Commission for strengthening dykes and other measures to
prevent flooding ?

2 . What projects are eligible for subsidies, and for what projects have subsidies already been granted ?

3 . What amounts have been allocated to these projects ?

Answer given by Mrs Wulf-Mathies on behalf of the Commission

( 27 February 1997 )

On 10 July 1996 the Commission published the guidelines for Interreg II C (')• This communication indicates
which measures are eligible under the section of the Interreg II C programme entitled ' spatial planning and
prevention of flooding by transnational cooperation '. The Netherlands are entitled to a budget of ECU 100 mil ­
lion for this part of the Interreg II C programme .

The Netherlands, in cooperation with Germany, France, Belgium and Luxembourg, have prepared one joint
programme for Interreg II C ' spatial planning and prevention of flooding by transnational cooperation ' for the
whole Rhine-Meuse area . It was presented to the Commission on 15 January 1997 and is being examined .

The Netherlands have received a further ECU 14 million under Article 10 of Regulation ( EEC ) No 4254 / 88 on the
European Regional Development Fund ( ERDF ), as amended ( 2 ), for five specific flood mitigation projects :

— the renovation and reinforcement of the discharge sluice in Dalem ( province Zuid-Holland ):
ERDF contribution of ECU 2.8 million for a total cost of ECU 5.6 million ;

— the protective sluice at Haatlandhaven in Kampen ( province Overijssel ):
ERDF contribution of ECU 2.4 million for a total cost of ECU 4.8 million ;

— water management and land use in the Bornsebeek and Woolderbinnenbeek ( province Overijssel ):
ERDF contribution of ECU 1.65 million for a total cost of ECU 3.3 million ;

— water management and ecological improvement in the Tungelroyschebeek ( province Limburg ):
ERDF contribution of ECU 2.95 million for a total cost of ECU 5.9 million ;

— Dutch-German pumping station monument ' Hollandsch Duitsch Gemaal ' in Nijmegen ( province Gelder ­
land ):
ERDF contribution of ECU 4.2 million for a total cost of ECU 1 1.6 million .

No projects for the strengthening of dikes or other flood prevention arrangements have been submitted to the
European Agricultural Guidance and Guarantee Fund, Guidance Section under Article 8 of Regulation ( EEC )
No 4256 / 88 as amended ( 2 ).

(') OJC 200, 10.7.1996 .
o OJ L 193, 31.7.1993 .

( 97 /C 2 1 7 / 60 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4020 / 96

by Erika Mann ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 14 January 1997 )

Subject : The need for an EU research network policy long-term strategy

The interconnection of university networks across Europe is an important element in the development of
advanced network services in Europe and in the creation of Europe 's information society . There is at present no
consistent policy covering this area and relating it to other developments in telecommunications, e.g.
development of multi-media software and real-time video services . As a result European researchers are
seriously hampered in their ability to take part in pan-European collaborative research activities .

No C 217 / 42 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17.7 . 97

There are no EU long-term policy guidelines in the area of research networking .

Can the Commission comment on how a long-term strategy can be designed, developed and implemented with
the aim of delivering a high quality network infrastructure for European researchers and with the necessary funds
to implement it ?

( 97 / C 217 / 61 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4021 / 96

by Erika Mann ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 14 January 1997 )

Subject : The need for EU policy on research networking

The interconnection of university networks across Europe is an important element in the creation of the
information society . However, researchers in the EU are seriously handicapped by the level of network services
they currently have access to . They are at a disadvantage in respect of their US counterparts who use a network
based on lines with a capacity to carry data at 45 Megabit / sec, whereas Europe 's pan-European network for
researchers, EuropaNET, has a maximum capacity of 8 Megabit / sec .

The Commission 's TEN-34 project, part of the 4th Framework Programme, brings all European national research
networks, the major European telecommunications operators, and the European Commission together to
implement a 34 Mbps network infrastructure, interconnecting national research networks . TEN-34 could and
should be the basis for a pan-European infrastructure matching the one available to US researchers and
consumers . However, the project has a 15 month duration, and cannot guarantee that the needs of network
researchers will be covered in the long-term .

The current TEN-34 planning horizon of 15-18 months is too short and leads to lack of stability on services
available to the research and education community . Lack of a long-term approach will hamper the crucial role
research networking policy should play in the development of services to consumers . Pan-European research
networking is the route to providing advanced telecom services for the education sector and allows for trialing of
new ideas and products in a technologically literate environment .

A long-term approach to research policy is urgently required if EU industry is to survive and the European
consumers are to see the benefits through the availability of more sophisticated products and services . Can the
Commissioner confirm that this is the Commission 's intention within the 5th Framework Programme ?

( 97 / C 217 / 62 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4022 / 96

by Erika Mann ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 14 January 1997 )

Subject : The need to facilitate access to cross-border telecommunication services

Universities in the United States are connected together with a high speed infrastructure for data communications
purposes . Similar infrastructures are being established nationally in Europe . At a pan-European level, however,
the costs of telecommunications are prohibitively high . As a result European researchers do not have access to a
high capacity pan-European data network .

A study carried out by DANTE ( Delivery of Advanced Network technology to Europe Ltd ., a not-for-profit SME
owned by European national university networks ) in 1994, as part of the EuroCAIRN ( European Cooperation for
Academic and Industrial Research Networking ) Project, showed that the necessary network infrastructure is
available, however, getting access to it, at reasonable cost, is the real problem .

The difficulty lies entirely in the reluctance of providers to make the infrastructure available . Connection prices
and bandwidth access are artificially restricted for fear of competitive initiatives which are totally outside the
goals pursued by most users and European researchers in particular .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 43

Open Network Provision ( ONP ) addresses this issue, but at national level . There is no equivalent provision
favouring the user of telecommunications services between countries . This inhibits the creation of a high
capacity network infrastructure for European researchers . In Europe, national information superhighways are
interconnected by country lanes .

Will the Commission agree that the lack of broadband access is an obstacle to the development of a European
superhighway ? Will the Commission outline its policies to improve this situation for telecommunications users ?

Joint answer

to Written Questions E-4020 / 96, E-4021 / 96 and E-4022 / 96

given by Mr Bangemann on behalf of the Commission

( 25 February 1997 )

The Commission has had a policy toward research networking for several years . It was first implemented in 1989
through the Community funded IXI project which connected all national research networks, and led to the
creation of EuropaNet, which is fully funded by its users .

The TEN-34 initiative is a continuation of that policy . It was conceived jointly between the telematics
applications and information technology programmes specifically to give European researchers equivalent
support to that available in the United States . This initiative was launched at the time when the United States
national science foundation was dismantling its 45 Mbps ( millions bits per second ) infrastructure and embarking
on a strategy of commercial service provision, which subsequently failed .

The Commission agrees that the project approach has its limits . However, the creation of EuropaNet, which
received pump priming funding from the Community, demonstrates that a project can lead to stable services, but
the limitations of the user 's own budgets restrict the rate at which services can be expanded .

The Commission is currently preparing proposals for the fifth research and technological development
framework programme and will examine the scope for further action in support of international research
networks consistent with the overall priorities and limits of the programme . Nevertheless, national contributions
will be essential if Europe 's research networks are to keep pace with those available in the United States .

In parallel, the Commission has convened a group of senior officials to continue the momentum of the EuroCairn
project . This standing ad hoc committee advises the Commission on research networking policy, and provides a
channel for Member States and associated states to exchange information on national policies . It is independent
of the framework programmes, and can therefore remain in existence in order to provide a basis for long term
coordination of policy .

The Commission agrees that cross-border broadband services are fundamental to the creation of a European

superhighway, in line with the recommendations contained in the report ' Europe and the global information
society ' report of the Bangemann group of 24 May 1996 . However, the Commission has no powers to regulate
the tariffs for such services . The approach has been to create an environment in which competitive market forces
will drive down prices . The recent Directive on alternative infrastructure provision 96 / 1 9 / EC (') will permit
operators to operate competing cross-border services, and encourage new entrants into the market . The
Commission anticipates that this will have the twin effects of forcing down prices, and encouraging broadband
services where there is customer demand .

(') OJ L 74, 22.3.1996 .

No C 217 / 44 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

( 97 / C 217 / 63 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4030 / 96

by Gerardo Fernandez               - Albor ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 14 January 1997 )

Subject : Requirements by the United Kingdom that holders of UK fishing licences should speak English

The requirement that crews of Spanish fishing boats should speak English is part of the ten-point plan recently
submitted by the member of the British Government responsible for fisheries, as a way of ending once and for all
the problem caused by foreign fishermen who have purchased fishing licences from their English counterparts .

This is the latest episode in the United Kingdom 's brutal war on foreign fishermen sailing under the UK flag .
According to the United Kingdom authorities, the 150 vessels concerned catch 20% of the national fishing quota .

Does the Commission consider that the United Kingdom requirement that crews of Spanish fishing boats
operating under UK fishing licences should speak English is in line with Community law on the four freedoms
and does it agree that this represents unacceptable discrimination in that no Community citizen has ever been
required to learn the language of any specific part of the European Union ?

Answer given by Mrs Bonino on behalf of the Commission

( 17 February 1997 )

The Commission has read the press reports of the United Kingdom 's plans to impose a knowledge of English on
fishing vessel crews as a prerequisite for fishing under the UK flag .,

Fishing vessels flying the flag of the United Kingdom but controlled by Spanish interests, operate normally with
crews resident in Spain, which is consistent with Community law and the relevant case law of the Court of
Justice . The United Kingdom authorities cannot therefore require of them a knowledge of English under current
Community law .

However, the authorities can still require that the officers of vessels flying the national flag, who are responsible
to these authorities for implementing public policy, have sufficient linguistic ability to understand and apply
various rules and procedures in the course of performing their duties .

( 97 / C 217 / 64 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4031 / 96

by Anne Andre-Leonard ( ELDR ) to the Commission

( 14 January 1997 )

Subject : Non-application of sliding-scale compensation in Greece

In a road accident which occurred in Greece, two Belgians were seriously injured and had to be taken to hospital,
where they underwent operations .

The amount of compensation which they have been offered is scandalously low in view of the serious
irremediable after-effects of the accident and the fact that the requests for compensation which they submitted
after the accident occurred in 1992 are still outstanding .

Most of the EU Member States have implemented a scheme whereby compensation is awarded on a sliding-scale
basis but this is not, unfortunately, the case with Greece .

In view of the fact that neither Greek law nor the Greek courts recognize the concept of sliding-scale
compensation and in view of the seriousness of the damage caused by the accident, could the Commission say
whether there are other legal remedies which would secure better compensation for the people in question, who
are victims of the current system in Greece ?

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 45

Answer given by Mr Monti on behalf of the Commission

( 21 February 1997 )

Introducing a system of compulsory insurance against civil liability in order to guarantee both freedom of
movement within the territory of the Community and compensation for victims of road accidents has been a
concern of the Commission since the adoption, in 1972, of the First Directive on motor insurance (')• This made
insurance against civil liability compulsory for motorists in the then Member States of the Community .

That basic protection was extended and bolstered by the Second ( 2 ) and Third ( 3 ) motor insurance directives . The
Second Directive defined the scope of the protection by setting minimum protection thresholds ( in ECU )
applicable in every Member State and specifying who was to be covered by those compulsory arrangements in
respect of civil liability . For its part, the Third Directive provides for complete coverage of the territory of the
Community on the basis of a single premium . There is, however, no provision in the directives for complete
harmonization as regards the level of compensation for victims . The motor insurance directives have established
the principle of compulsory insurance — based on a single premium — against civil liability in respect of the use
of motor vehicles and stipulate the minimum content . This is accordingly minimum harmonization, which does
not require that an obligation as regards the amount of, or the arrangements for, compensation be fulfilled in the
same way throughout the territory of the Community . Member States are therefore free to set differing levels of
compensation, provided the minimum amounts applicable under the Second Directive are complied with . The
transposal of the Second Directive into Greek law has been scrutinized by the Commission and has been found to
be in conformity with the letter of that instrument . Accordingly, the dispute between the Belgian insured person
and the Greek insurer which is referred to by the Honourable Member can be resolved only by going through
national judicial channels .

The Third Directive requires that that the insurance cover be that applicable in the Member State in which the
policy was taken out or in which the vehicle is normally based when such cover is higher . In the case at hand this
does not apply since the vehicle was hired in Greece, was insured by a company established in Greece and was
normally based in that country . The compensation paid would thus appear to have been calculated in accordance
with the rules applicable under Greek law . The fact that other Member States provide a higher level of protection
or do not use the same methods of loss assessment is not a factor when considering whether a system of
protection is in conformity with the Community directives .

(') Council Directive 72 / 166 / EEC of 24 April 1972 on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to insurance against civil
liability in respect of the use of motor vehicles, and to the enforcement of the obligation to insure against such liability ( OJ L 103, 2.5.1972,
p. i ).
( 2 ) Directive 84 / 5 / EEC of 30 December 1983, Second Council Directive 011 the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to
insurance against civil liability in respect of the use of motor vehicles ( OJ L 8, 1 1.1.1984, p. 17 ).
(■') Directive 90 / 232 / EEC of 1 4 May 1 990, Third Council Directive on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to insurance
against civil liability in respect of the use of motor vehicles ( OJ L 129, 19.5.1990, p. 33 ).

( 97 / C 217 / 65 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4036 / 96

by Daniel Varela Suanzes-Carpegna ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 14 January 1997 )

Subject : Subsidies from the financial mechanism of the European Economic Area ( EEA ) for restoring Europe 's

historic heritage

Can the Commission supply details of the projects and monuments ( together with the relevant funding ) which
have received aid from the financial mechanism of the European Economic Area ( EEA ) since it was set up ?

Can the Commission state what funding has been earmarked for future projects of this type under the EEA 's
financial mechanism ?

Answer given by Mrs Wulf-Mathies on behalf of the Commission

(7 February 1997 )

The financial mechanism of the European economic area ( financed by the Community, Iceland, Liechtenstein
and Norway ) has supported works in a number of monasteries in Greece and cathedrals in Spain .

No C 217 / 46 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

In Greece the total grant commitment up to now is 8.152 MECU . With the exception of the Convent of Ormylia
the projects concern Mount Athos . Their realisation will contribute to the preservation of unique monuments and
will also enable the development of the region 's cultural tourism . The projects involved concern :

— restoration and extension of monastery buildings at the Iviron monastery ( 3.684 MECU ) and the Simonos
Petras monastery ( 0.89 MECU );

— development of a research and diagnostic centre for the study of Byzantine and post-Byzantine religious
paintings and restructuring of two interior courtyards at the Ormylia monastery ( 1.745 MECU );

— stabilisation of rock foundations at the Stavronikita monastery ( 1.833 MECU ).

As for the restoration of cathedrals in Spain, a grant of 13.62 MECU has been approved for the cathedrals of
Leon, Salamanca and Burgos and the church of San Isidoro in Leon .

With regard to the other countries benefiting from the financial mechanism, no applications concerning the
preservation of historic heritage have been received so far .

Concerning the future financing of this type of project, there is no specific quota by sector within each Member
State 's allocation from the financial mechanism .

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 66 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-4043 / 96

by Honor Funk ( PPE ) to the Commission

(6 January 1997 )

Subject : Veterinary medicinal product Dimetridazol

Since July 1 995 the veterinary medicinal product Dimetridazol has been included in Annex IV of Regulation
( EEC ) No 2377 / 90 (') and has thus been banned as a veterinary medicinal product for food-producing animals .
Substances listed in Annex IV of this regulation constitute a hazard to the health of the consumer at whatever
concentration they occur . Despite this information, obtained by the Commission when assessing the veterinary
medicinal product Dimetridazol, it is still authorized for use as a feeding-stuffs additive under comparable
conditions of use to the previous veterinary medicinal product .

Why does the Commission, in line with the data known to it and in accordance with its obligation under Article
7(1 ), together with paragraph 2 B first sentence of Directive 70 / 524 / EEC ( 2 ) on additives in feeding-stuffs, not
submit forthwith a proposal for a ban on Dimetridazol as a feeding-stuffs additive ?

(') OJ L 224, 18.8.1990, p . 1 .
( 2 ) OJ L 270, 14.12.1970, p . 1 .

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 14 February 1997 )

As the Honourable Member points out, the use of dimetridazol as a veterinary medicinal product has been
prohibited since September 1995 . It has not been possible to set a maximum residue limit for this product under
Regulation ( EEC ) No 2377 / 90 since the studies needed to eliminate doubts about its effect on public health have
not been carried out .

Legally speaking, the decision to prohibit a medicinal product does not apply to the use of the same substance as
an additive under Directive 70 / 524 / EEC .

The Commission has started a review of the use of dimetridazol as an additive in feedingstuffs in the light of the
factors which led to its prohibition as a medical product . The Scientific Committee on Animal Nutrition is
currently re-examining, at the Commission 's request, the effect of the residues on consumer safety . As soon as
the Commission has received the Committee 's opinion, it will decide whether dimetridazol can continue to be
authorized as an additive .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 47

( 97 / C 217 / 67 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4047 / 96

by Eva Kjer Hansen ( ELDR ) to the Commission

( 17 January J 997 )

Subject : Fraud in transit

In the Commission regulation 2454 / 93 (') of 2 July 1993 it is said in his article No 379 par . 1 . ' Where a
consignment has not been presented at the office of destination and the place where the offence or irregularity
occurred cannot be established, the office of departure shall notify the principal of this fact as soon as possible
and in any case before the end of the 1 1th month following the date of registration of the Community transit
declaration ':

Is the Commission aware that the delays are violated systematically by the Member States ?

In the scope of own resources, EEC Rule No 1552 / 89 of the Council ( 2 ) mentions in Art . 6 par . 3 that ' As from

1 January 1 990 each Member State transmits to the Commission, on half-yearly basis, a concise description of
frauds and irregularities concerning an amount of duties superior to ECU 10 000 '.

It has been possible to quantify at 8 thousand million ecus the loss of revenue of the European Union, since the
setting up of the single market, arising from fraud and irregularities committed in the administration of
community transit due to bad management by the competent national authorities .

Why has the Commission not used the prerogatives given to it, notably by Articles 169, 171, and 209a of the
Treaty to recover uncollected amounts ?

Does the Commission foresee the modification of :

1 . its rule 1468 / 81 / EEC ( 3 ) and notably the abolition in the short term of its Art . 8 and Art . 17 .

2 . its directive 76 / 308 / EEC ( 4 ) and notably the abolition in the short term of its Art . 4 and Art . 14

which curb investigations carried out by a Member State ?

C ) OJ [L] 253, 11.10.1993, p. I.
O OJ [L] 155, 7.6.1989, p. 1 .
C ) OJ [L] 144, 2.6.1981, p. 1 .
( 4 ) OJ [L] 73, 19.3.1976, p. 18 .

Answer given by Mr Monti on behalf of the Commission

7 March 1997 )

Notwithstanding the serious problems in the Community transit area, the Commission has no clear information
regarding systematic violation by the Member States of the obligation ( contained in Article 379 of Regulation
( EEC ) No 2454 / 93 ) to notify the principal before the end of the eleventh month following the date of registration
of the declaration . The Commission would in any case appreciate all relevant information concerning this issue
that the Honourable Member could provide .

However, this Article also provides that the above notification should indicate a time limit of three months for the
presentation to customs of proof of the regularity of the operation . If at the end of this three month period such
proof has not been furnished, the Member State is obliged to take steps to recover the duties and other charges
involved . In this regard, Commission inspections ( 1994-1995 ) revealed that there were delays in many Member
States in the initiation of recovery actions . The Commission is pursuing this matter with the Member States
concerned in order to rectify such shortcomings .

The financial impact of fraud in the transit area is significant but perhaps not as high as the Honourable Member
suggests . The estimate of 8 000 MECU was initially put forward by a trade organisation to the Parliament
committee of enquiry into the transit regime and comprises customs duties, national taxes and likely also indirect
economic costs . However, the Commission does not regard this estimate as being well-founded . On the basis of
information received to date from Member States, the Commission would estimate that the amounts outstanding
for recovery in terms of both Community resources and national taxes would be in the range 1 500 to
2 000 MECU which would include Community own resources of between 300 and 400 MECU . Considering the
normal length of the recovery process and the possibility of suspension because of legal actions before courts, the
non-collection of these amounts does not in any case mean that the Member State concerned has not fulfilled its
Community obligations .

No C 217 / 48 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

The Member States are responsible for the recovery of outstanding amounts . The Commission monitors the
recovery actions, but has no direct means at its disposal to assure recovery and cannot control recovery action in
each individual case . The selection of important cases, direct bilateral inquiries and spot inspections in all
Member States may result in the authorities being requested to take appropriate action, if this has not already
been initiated, and the charging of interest in cases where there was a delay in making own resources available to
the Commission .

If duties are not collected, the Member State is required to seek the approval of the Commission wherever it is
proposed to write off unrecovered amounts under the conditions set out in Article 17(2 ) of Council Regulation
( EEC ) No 1552 / 89 . In the event of the non-application of proper recovery procedures, the Commission may open
infringement proceedings under the EC Treaty, and in particular with regard to any Member State which
systematically violates obligations with regard to recovery and which does not agree to adopt practices in
conformity with Community law . In transit matters, decisions relating to such proceedings will depend on the
result of the current discussions with the Member States .

There is currently under examination a proposal for replacing by a new text Council Regulation ( EEC )
No 1468 / 81 on mutual assistance in customs and agricultural matters . The Parliament gave its opinion (') on this
proposal ( 2 ) in December 1993 . The withdrawal of Article 8 was not envisaged since the limitation it foresees
bears only on transmission of originals but has no effect on the communication of copies, authenticated if
necessary . The Member States never mentioned any difficulty on this point . As for Article 17, the Commission,
following an amendment originating in the Parliament, has proposed its modification for limiting the possible
exceptions to the mandatory assistance to cases involving the protection of public order . The Council refused to
accept this proposal, even if it agreed on a text slightly different from the present Article 17, by introducing a
reference to the protection of personal data and by foreseeing information to the Commission in case of refusal of
assistance together with the reasons for the refusal .

The Commission, in its legislative programme for 1997 plans to propose improvement of Directive 76 / 308 / EEC
on mutual assistance for the recovery of claims . In preparing this proposal the Commission is examining the
effects of the limitations laid down in Articles 4 and 14 on the effective recovery of claims within the
Community .

(') OJ C 20, 24.1.1994 .
( 2 ) COM(92)544 as modified by CC>M(93)350 and COM(94)34 .

( 97 / C 217 / 68 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4050 / 96

by Cristiana Muscardini ( NI ) to the Commission

( 17 January 1997 )

Subject : Closure of the Nestle factory in Abbiategrasso

The Swiss multinational Nestle has decided to close its factory in Abbiategrasso ( in the Province of Milan ) in the
first half of 1998, a decision which will exacerbate the major unemployment problem already afflicting the area .

The unions and local councillors in the region have asked Nestle to review its restructuring programme, to take
every possible measure to retain jobs and boost employment and to undertake to safeguard the production of
goods which convey the image of Italian products and, paradoxically, now risk being manufactured abroad .

With a view to protecting the interests of the workers and the local community, will the Commission state
whether :

1 . It is aware of the social crisis which will result ?

2 . It intends to regulate dislocations in production within the Union in order to ensure that their impact does not
fall on workers ' families ?

3 . It can establish whether Community aid was granted, under various headings, to companies belonging to
Nestle, with a view to ensuring that, in future, subsidies are not given to multinationals closing their
factories, without any real concern for their employees and their employees ' families ?

17 . 7 . 97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 49

Answer given by Mr Van Miert on behalf of the Commission

( 24 February 1997 )

The Commission would thank the Honourable Member for drawing its attention to the situation regarding
Nestle 's factory at Abbiategrasso .

While the information provided by the Honourable Member refers to closure of the factory, there is no concrete
evidence that the multinational concerned has decided to transfer production from Abbiategrasso to another
Member State .

In the event that what is involved is not just the closure of the factory, it should be recalled that, on the whole,
relocations are carried out for strategic, industrial and economic reasons, independently of the public authorities
generally and of the Commission in particular . The Commission is not, therefore, of the opinion that it should
intervene unless there is clear evidence of a breach of EC Treaty rules .

While the Commission is not aware of Nestle having received any direct public aid in recent years, it cannot rule
out the possibility that the group benefited from general measures accessible to all firms in a Member State or
from aid granted under Commission-approved horizontal or regional schemes, Member States being entirely at
liberty to grant aid under such schemes without having to notify the Commission .

The Community 's policy is to authorize investment aid that encourages the setting-up of firms, but only in
regions experiencing difficulties . The seriousness of those difficulties is determined in the light of objective
criteria such as gross domestic product or the unemployment rate . Moreover, decisions to relocate are not
generally made on the basis of the public aid the firm stands to receive in the Member State to which it transfers
its activities .

In order to make the rules on regional aid even clearer and more transparent, to ensure greater legal certainty and
to add to the predictability of its decisions in this field, the Commission has presented to Member States a draft
multisectoral framework for regional aid to major investment projects . The purpose of the framework is to allow
better adjustment of the level of regional aid granted to major investment projects involving high capital
mobility .

Moreover, the Commission is considering whether it is possible to avoid situations in which firms that have set
up in an assisted region after receiving aid relocate later on simply because they have been promised aid by
another region .

As far as harmonization of general rules in the tax and social spheres is concerned, the Commission can act only
within the limits laid down by the EC Treaty . Under present Community rules, it cannot take direct action in
respect of these matters, since responsibility for such decisions rests with the Council .

( 97 / C 217 / 69 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4055 / 96

by Karla Peijs ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 17 January 1997 )

Subject : Distortion of competition by electricity utilities following the proposal to liberalise the electricity

market

1 . Is the Commission aware that, in addition to performing their public duty of distributing electricity, the
electricity utilities are increasingly competing with the private installation sector by offering installation goods
and services to third parties, thereby abusing their position as suppliers of electricity, and that they are therefore
distorting and restricting competition with private installation firms ?

2 . Is the Commission aware that the electricity companies have advantages which private companies cannot
enjoy : for example, they pay no corporation tax, they can obtain cheaper loans, they make use of customer data
which are at their disposal because of their public distribution remit and they exploit the fact that they are very
well known ?

3 . Does the Commission realise that, when they are in competition, the electricity utilities harm the private
installation companies with these activities and that they restrict trade between Member States, as evidenced by
the European research carried out by the AIE ( Association internationale des entreprises d'equipement
electrique )?

No C 217 / 50 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

4 . Does the Commission share the view that data and financial resources obtained by the electricity utilities by
virtue of their monopoly position should not be used for commercial activities ?

5 . Does the Commission share the view of the sector that following liberalization of the electricity market the
electricity utilities will have even more opportunities to abuse their privileged position vis-a-vis the private
sector, and what action is the Commission considering taking to prevent this abuse ?

Answer given by Mr Van Miert on behalf of the Commission

( 28 February 1997 )

The Commission has received a complaint which, while not exactly dealing with the same behaviour as that
referred to by the Honourable Member, relates to substantially similar developments . Together with the
complainant, it is considering what action should be taken .

The Commission has not received any specific formal complaint from private installation companies concerning
possible abuses of a dominant position within the meaning of Article 86 of the EC Treaty by electricity utilities .
Should it receive any other complaints in this connection, it will be certain to examine them as closely as
possible .

For the rest, the Commission is in contact with the representatives of the AIE and recently held an initial
exchange of views with them .

The Commission is convinced that, together with the application of the competition rules, the opening of the
electricity market in accordance with Parliament and Council Directive 96 / 92 / EC of 19 December 1996 (')
concerning common rules for the internal market in electricity will result in greater opportunities for independent
operators .

(') OJL 27, 30.1.1997 .

( 97 / C 217 / 70 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4056 / 96

by Jose Barros Moura ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 17 January 1997 )

Subject : Financing of the Alqueva project

In response to the Commission 's written answer to my oral question ( H-0930 / 96 ) ('), I wish to ask the following
legal questions, which I did not have the opportunity to put to it in plenary :

1 . What was the legal basis for the Commission 's decision to alter the financing arrangements laid down in its
own decisions approving the CSF and PPDR ( Programme for the promotion of regional development
potential )?

2 . How can it justify the fact, after approving a project of such importance and impact, it is going back on its
word, leaving the impression that the project does not actually have the merits on the basis of which it was
approved ? Has the Commission taken account of the decisions of the Court of Justice regarding the onus of
proof in such cases ?

3 . Does it consider that its decision to make the financing of the project subject to a suspensive condition
complies with the partnership principle ?

4 . How does it explain its decision to impose an amendment to the PPDR with a view either to a new operating
programme or to an independent decision on the project ?

5 . How can it justify its wish to impose the conclusion of a bilateral agreement between Portugal and Spain to
guarantee the quality of water when it is its own responsibility to ensure compliance with water quality
directives ? Is it seeking to shirk its responsibility as ' guardian ' of the Treaty ?

6 . How can it justify the fact that Portugal is being required unilaterally to guarantee a minimum water flow in
respect of an international river ? Is the Commission not aware that this matter is governed by the Convention
between Portugal and Spain, which has been in force since 7 April 1969 ?

7 . Is the Commission willing to take responsibility for stating that it suspects Spain of not respecting the
agreement ?

(') European Parliament debates ( December 1996 ).

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 51

Answer given by Mrs Wulf-Mathies on behalf of the Commission

(5 March 1997 )

1 . With regard to the Alqueva major project, the Commission is anxious to ensure the viability of this
important undertaking, as much from the point of view of adequate availability of water in quantitative and
qualitative terms as from that of the economic dynamization of the area concerned by the building of the dam and
also as from that of the implementation of adequate environmental accompanying measures .

2 . In approving the Portuguese Community Support Framework ( CSF ), the Commission did not decide on the
Alqueva project . The Framework specifies that the Alqueva project is to be the subject of a subsequent more
detailed examination to be based, in particular, on additional information to be forwarded by the Member State to
the Commission . The CSF also stipulates that special attention is to be paid to Community provisions on the
environment and the common agricultural policy .

At the present stage of processing the Alqueva file, the Commission has not stated its position on the information
provided for in Article 5 of Regulation ( EEC ) No 4254 / 88, as amended (')•

It cannot therefore be said that the Commission has changed its mind, or that the project does not have its own
merits . It was on the basis of the examination of the file as also of the work carried out in partnership with the
Portuguese authorities between September 1995 and September 1996 that the Commission proposed conditions
to those authorities, considering that if they were met the financing of the project could follow its normal course .

3 . Yes . The conditions proposed by the Commission were discussed in the course of the work undertaken in
partnership with the Portuguese authorities .

4 . The Commission proposed a separate decision on the project for the purpose of clarifying those conditions
of sound financial management it considers necessary and which it presented to the Member State in the course
of the work undertaken in partnership .

5 . The Community directives on the environment are of general application . By asking for their application in
the case of the Guadiana river basin, the Commission 's only concern was that the measures arising from the
application of the directives be carried out on schedule in order that the viability of the Alqueva project be
ensured .

6 . The Commission 's request is based on the concern for Community funds to be used in accordance with
sound financial management, in other words, uppermost in its mind is the question of whether there will be
enough water for the project to be viable .

The Commission clearly did examine the Portuguese-Spanish agreement of 1968 and points out that the
agreement is under review, several aspects having to be given further consideration .

7 . The Commission has never called into question either of the two parties ' respect for the Portuguese ­
Spanish agreement, its only concern is that the project 's viability be ensured .

(') OJL 193, 31.7.1993 .

( 91 /C 217 / 71 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4057 / 96

by Jose Barros Moura ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 17 January 1997 )

Subject : Financing of the Alqueva project

In response to the Commission 's written answer to my oral question ( H-0930 / 96 ) ('), I wish to ask the following
questions regarding the facts of the case and the political issues it raises :

1 . What are the conclusions of international survey on the rate of flow of the Guadiana river, conducted by
Montgomery Watson consultants at the Commission 's request and financed by the Cohesion Fund ?

2 . Will the Commission confirm or deny that the survey does not raise the slightest doubt as to whether the
river 's rate of flow is liable to prevent the project from going ahead ?

3 . By whom and under what instructions from the Commission was the ' draft agreement ' referred to in the
answer drawn up ? Will it confirm that negotiations were held and that a ' draft agreement ' was reached ?

No C 217 / 52 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

4 . When will the relevant studies, which all confirm that the Alqueva project meets Community environmental
standards, be made public ?

5 . Does it consider it politically and constitutionally acceptable that such a major project, which concerns the
development of a vast region of Portugal, should be subject to the discretionary powers of the Commission
and to conditions that are not even laid down in the relevant regulations and that may jeopardize the project 's
financial stability ?

(') European Parliament debates ( December 1996 ).

Answer given by Mrs Wulf-Mathies on behalf of the Commission

( 27 February 1997 )

1 and 2 . The study concludes that the rate of flow of the Guadiana river is sufficient on average to ensure the
viability of the Alqueva project but stresses the significance of seasonal and year-on-year variations in the river,
and proposes accordingly to ' develop an integrated water resources management cooperative programme for the
river basin, involving Portugal and Spain, based on the recognition of the sovereignty of each country and on the
revision of the existing agreements between Portugal and Spain, to include aspects as water quality, river flow
regimes, sediment transport, ecological flows and water rights '.

3 . Discussions on the Alqueva project have been held in partnership between the Portuguese authorities
( Portuguese State Secretariat for regional development ) and the Commission .

4 . The environmental impact study of the Alqueva project carried out in 1994-1995 in partnership with the
Portuguese authorities was the subject, as required under Directive 85 / 337 / EEC on the assessment of the effects
of certain public and private projects on the environment ('), of consultations in Spain and Portugal with the local
authorities and the population of the area affected by the project . These consultations took place after the
Portuguese authorities received the final report on the study from the Commission . The Commission takes the
view that this procedure is adequate for the purposes of disclosure of the study .,

With regard to the assessment carried out during the first half of 1996, the Commission wishes to point out that it
was undertaken in close cooperation with the Portuguese authorities, which have received the final report . As the
assessment confirmed the importance of the main findings of the first study, the Commission did not consider it
necessary to publish the findings .

5 . The Commission refers the Honourable Member to its answers to question E-4056 / 96 ( 2 ), which indicate
that in this matter it has always been guided by concern for sound financial management and has always worked
in concert with the Portuguese authorities, without at any time having the impression that it was acting in an
independent way .

(') OJ L 175, 5.7.1985 .
( J ) See page 50 .

( 97 / C 217 / 72 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4061 / 96

by Nikitas.Kaklamanis ( UPE ) to the Commission

( 17 January 1997 )

Subject : Tax on imports of used HGV chassis

According to the Greek magazine ' Trochoi kai TIR ', the Greek authorities have reintroduced a special excise
duty — with retroactive effect even — on imported used HGV chassis ( the frame without the body ) while
exempting imports of new chassis from the same tax .

This decision could prove to be a deathblow to importers of used vehicles and spare parts who have already
protested to the Greek authorities that they are in breach of Community law .

In cases C-46, 62, 345 and 433 / 93, the Court of Justice ruled that Member States of the Community are liable to
pay citizens compensation where government bodies, including the legislature, are in breach of Community law
( discrimination in respect of free movement of goods and merchandise ) and that the period of compensation
should run from the point at which the damages arose, not from the time of the Court 's ruling against the Member
State .

17 . 7 . 97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 53

What steps will the Commission take to persuade the Greek authorities to withdraw these provisions which are
creating a desperate situation for dealers in used HGVs and spare parts ?

Answer given by Mr Monti on behalf of the Commission

( 10 March 1997 )

The Commission is not aware of the details of the tax cited by the Honourable Member . Accordingly, it will
contact the Greek authorities to ascertain the facts .

The Commission would point out that, in principle, charging a tax on used imported heavy goods vehicle chassis

whilst exempting new chassis would appear to contravene Article 95 of the EC Treaty . In this regard, the
Commission also points out that it has opened infringement proceedings against Greece in respect of the
comparable discriminatory effect of its car taxation rules .

( 97 / C 217 / 73 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4062 / 96

by Graham Mather ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 17 January 1997 )

Subject : VAT on home care services

Under Article 13(A)(g ) of the VAT code ( Directive 77 / 388 / EEC (')), the provision of care services by ' old
people 's homes, by bodies governed by public law ... and ( charities )' is exempt from VAT . The UK implementing
regulation for this point is Item 1, group 7, Schedule 9 of the VAT Act of 1 994 which allows VAT exemption for
the provision of care services by medical professionals or unqualified people under the direct supervision of a
qualified person .

The UK regulation, however, does not exempt the supply of care services by those agencies or organizations
which perform home care responsibilities outside of medical responsibilities, although such responsibilities may
be similar to those provided by an old people 's home . A recent Court of Justice ruling over the application of
Article ( 13)(A)(l)(g ) made clear that the VAT exemption is not available to anyone other than charities and
bodies governed by law . This ruling seems to go against the spirit and text of Article ( 13)(A)(l)(g ) since an old
people 's home might not be a charity or a body governed by public law .

Does the Commission consider Article ( 13)(A)(l)(g ) to be grounds for VAT exemption of services provided by
home care organizations ? If so, if the UK implementing regulation Item 1, Group 7, Schedule 9 of the VAT Act
of 1994, incompatible with the EC regulation ? Finally, does the Commission consider it within the spirit of the
law that home care agencies should be excluded from VAT exemption ?

(') OJ L 145, 13.6.1977, p . 1 .

Answer given by Mr Monti on behalf of the Commission

( 21 February 1997 )

The Commission considers that Article 13(a)(1)(g ) of the sixth VAT Directive ( 77 / 388 / EEC ) exempts only those
supplies of home-care services provided by bodies governed by public law or by other organisations recognised
as charitable by the Member State concerned .

Article 13(A)(1)(c ) exempts medical care in the exercise of the medical and paramedical professions and the
Commission believes that exemption can be applied to supplies of services by home-care organisations where
they are provided under the control or supervision of the medical or paramedical professions, and can therefore
be classified as ' care in the exercise ' of those professions .

In this context it follows that a distinction has to be drawn between ' home-care ' services provided for medical
reasons and those provided for other purposes such as support for those suffering from physical incapacity . Also
a distinction must be made between services provided by commercial organisations and those provided by bodies
governed by public law or organisations having charitable status .

No C 217 / 54 [ EN 1 Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

Non-medical home-care services provided by commercial organisations are excluded from exemption under
Article 13(A)(1)(g ). However, where home-care services controlled or supervised by recognised medical
practitioners are provided the status of the provider does not affect exemption under Article 13(A)(1)(c ). The
nexus with the professional medical services is the deciding factor .

The Commission believes that, at present, the scope of Article 13(A)(1)(g ) is clearly defined in the text of the
provisions and is deliberately confined to care provided by public bodies and charitable organisations . In the
light of this it is difficult to see how the exclusion of exemption for care provided by other organisations could be
seen as being against the spirit of the exemption . However, in the broader context of Article 13(A ), it is
recognised that these exemptions, together with the rules and options distinguishing between supplies by
commercial and non-commercial operators, both complicate and adversely affect the neutrality of the tax . The
Commission has recently published its ideas for a new common system of VAT for the single market which
include the simplification and modernisation of current VAT practices . As part of its working programme to
bring about these changes the Commission will be reviewing the whole question of exemptions including those
which apply to public bodies and other organisations covered by Article 13A(1 ).

( 97 / C 217 / 74 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4066 / 96

by Miguel Arias Canete ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 17 January 1997 )

Subject : Nationality of the official responsible for the proposal on the legal status of the euro

Can the Commission confirm that the DG II official directly responsible for the two proposed regulations setting
out the legal status of the euro is of German nationality ?

( 97 / C 217 / 75 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4067 / 96

by Miguel Arias Canete ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 17 January 1997 )

Subject : German officials and monetary union

Does the Commission intend to continue its practice of assigning mainly officials or members of the Legal
Service of German nationality to work on the draft legislation necessary for developing the third phase of
monetary union ?

( 97 / C 217 / 76 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4068 / 96

by Miguel Anas Canete ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 17 January 1997 )

Subject : Members of the Legal Service entrusted with the task of drawing up the legal status of the euro

Can the Commission specify how many non-German members of the Legal Service have been asked to provide
legal assistance in drafting the regulations setting out the legal status of the euro ?

( 97 / C 217 / 77 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4069 / 96

by Miguel Arias Canete ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 17 January 1997 )

Subject : Members of the Central Banks seconded to work on drawing up the legal status of the euro

Can the Commission state how many Central Banks, in addition to the German Bundesbank, have been asked to
second members of their legal departments to DG II to work on preparing the two regulations setting out the legal
status of the euro ?

17 . 7 . 97 | EN I Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 55

( 97 / C 217 / 78 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4070 / 96

by Miguel Arias Canete ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 17 January 1997 )

Subject : Drawing up the legal status of the euro

Can the Commission confirm that it has decided to call on the assistance of two lawyers from the legal
department of the German Bundesbank, who are currently seconded to DG II, in order to draw up the two
regulations setting out the legal status of the euro ?

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 79 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4071 / 96

by Miguel Arias Canete ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 17 January 1997 )

Subject : Article 157(2 ) of the Treaty and monetary union

Does the Commission believe that it is compatible with Article 157(2 ) of the Treaty that employees of the Central
Bank of a particular Member State should be seconded to work on drawing up and processing the draft legislation
needed to facilitate access to the third phase of monetary union ?

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 80 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4072 / 96

by Miguel Arias Canete ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 17 January 1997 )

Subject : The Legal Service responsible for the legal status of the euro

Can the Commission confirm that the lawyer in the Legal Service responsible for the two regulations setting out
the legal status of the euro is of German nationality ?

Joint answer

to Written Questions E-4066 / 96, E-4067 / 96, E-4068 / 96, E-4069 / 96, E-4070 / 96,
E-4071 / 96 and E-4072 / 96 given by Mr de Silguy on behalf of the Commission

( 14 March 1997 )

The Commission would remind the Honourable Member that, under the Staff Regulations :

' An official shall carry out his duties and conduct himself solely with the interests of the Communities in mind ;
he shall neither seek nor take instructions from any government, authority, organization or person outside his
institution ' ( Article 11 of the Staff Regulations );

' No posts shall be reserved for nationals of any specific Member State ' ( Article 27 of the Staff regulations );

' The provisions of Articles 11 to 26 of the Staff Regulations, concerning the rights and obligations of officials,
shall apply by analogy ' [ to temporary staff ] ( Article 1 1 of the Conditions of Employment of Other Servants ).

The fact that the Head of the Unit responsible for institutional, legal and financial matters relating to Monetary
Union within DG II ( Economic and Financial Affairs ) and the lawyer within the Legal Service who monitors
Economic and Monetary Union matters are of German nationality is a matter of coincidence and does not in any
way detract from the obligation of independence incumbent upon them under the Staff Regulations .

As part of the regular contacts which the Commission maintains with other institutions, experts from
several central banks ( Germany, France, Austria, Finland, Sweden and the United Kingdom ) have been seconded
to DG II to work on monetary matters . Two Bundesbank lawyers have been involved in DG II ' s work generally
during their secondment, but have not been specifically involved in work on the legal status of the euro .

Article 157(2 ) of the EC Treaty relates solely to the Members of the Commission . In the case of Commission
officials, the above-mentioned ethical principles apply .

No C 217 / 56 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

( 97 / C 217 / 81 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4073 / 96

by Guido Podesta ( UPE ) to the Commission

( 17 January 1997 )

Subject : Mutual recognition of formal qualifications in architecture

Notice No 96 / C 205 / 05 ('), an update of communication 89 / C 205 / 06 of 10 August 1989 ( 2 ) on diplomas,
certificates and other evidence of formal qualifications in architecture which are the object of mutual recognition
by the Member States, publishes a list of the diplomas which must be recognized by the Member States of the
European Community in respect of those students who began their studies in architecture in the academic year

1988 / 89 .

For those who began their studies in architecture before the academic year 1988 / 89, the diplomas to be
recognized are those listed :

— for Member States other than Spain and Portugal, at Article 1 1 of Directive 85 / 384 / EEC of 10 June 1 985 ( 3 ),

— at Article 1 of Directive 85 / 614 / EEC of 20 December 1985 ( 4 ) for Spain and Portugal,

— and at Article 1 of Directive 86 / 17 / EEC of 27 January 1986 ( 5 ), amended by publication in the Official
Journal of the European Communities No L 87 of 2 April 1986, for Portugal alone .

In the case of Italy, therefore, recognition is granted to diplomas obtained at the Faculty of Architecture of the
University of Venice and the University of Reggio Calabria, including courses of study begun before the
academic year 1988 / 89 .

However, given that each Faculty of Architecture course in Italy can be compared to that of the University of
Venice or of Reggio Calabria, even before the academic year 1988 / 89, can the Commission explain, as far as
Italy is concerned, what substantial difference there was between the courses of the Faculty of Architecture of the
University of Venice or the University of Reggio Calabria up until the academic year 1987 / 1988 and those of the
University of Milan or the University of Florence, for example, to justify the fact that only university diplomas
from the first two Faculties must be recognized by the Member States for students who began their studies in
architecture before the academic year 1988 / 89 ?

C ) OJ C 205,
( 2 ) OJ C 205,
C ) OJ L 223,
( 4 ) OJ L 376,
( 5 ) OJ L 27, 1

16.7.1996, p . 6 .
10.8.1989, p . 5 .
21 . 8.1985, p . 15 .
31.12.1985, p . 1 .

. 2.1986, p . 71 .

Answer given by Mr Monti on behalf of the Commission

( 11 March 1997 )

Council Directive 85 / 384 / EEC of 10 June 1985 (') includes two separate sets of rules governing qualifications in
architecture . There are general rules governing the recognition of architects ' qualifications, which are to be found
in Chapter II of the Directive ; and there are transitional arrangements, to be found in Chapter III .

The general rules do not attempt to enumerate the qualifications Community nationals may hold which
Member States are bound to recognize . They merely lay down requirements in respect of the content ( Article 3 )
and duration ( Article 4 ) of courses of education and training ; if these requirements are met, the ensuing
qualification must be recognized in Member States other than the one in which it is delivered . Each Member State
must supply and keep up to date a list of the qualifications which in its opinion satisfy these requirements, and of
the establishments and authorities that award them . The Commission publishes the lists and updating notices in
the Official Journal . They can be challenged before the Court of Justice, after first being referred to an Advisory
Committee for its opinion . It is these lists which have been updated . ( 2 )

The open-ended system created by the general rules contrasts with the closed system in the transitional rules,
which is concerned with entitlement ' to take up activities in the field of architecture by virtue of established
rights or existing national provisions ' . The Directive here seeks to allow for the situation of Community nationals
who have obtained specified qualifications, or who intend to do so shortly, ' even if those qualifications do not
fulfil the minimum requirements laid down in Chapter II ' ( Article 10 ). The Directive itself provides an
exhaustive list of the qualifications involved ( Article 11 ), which is binding on all Member States : every
Member State is required to recognize them ( Article 10 ), and there is no machinery for challenging them .
Member States must accept them without verifying whether they comply with the requirements of Chapter II of
the Directive .

17.7.97 [ EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 57

In the case of Italy the list refers among other things to ' laurea in architettura ' diplomas awarded by the higher
institutes of architecture of Venice and Reggio Calabria ( Article 11(g )).

The difference between courses begun before the academic year 1988 / 89 and courses begun from that year on,
therefore, is that the earlier courses were accepted on a transitional basis, limited in time, with no check on
whether they satisfied the requirements of Articles 3 and 4 of the Directive, while the more recent courses have
been accepted because it is considered that they do satisfy those requirements .

(') OJ L 223, 21.8.1985, p . 15 .
( 2 ) OJ C 205, 16.7.1996, p . 6 .

( 97 / C 217 / 82 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4075 / 96

by Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Commission

( 17 January 1997 )

Subject : Telecommunications and postal services

With regard to the proposal for a Council Decision on the definition and implementation of Community policy in
the field of telecommunications and postal services ( CC)M(96)0045 ) ('), the Commission 's sectors of activity in
the field of telecommunications and postal services are defined by the provisions of the Treaty and specified in
Council and Parliament resolutions and directives which, taken as a whole, provide a programme of work,
generally based on a specific timetable .

The Treaty provisions and the resolutions and directives require the Commission to adopt ( and, in certain cases,
provide encouragement for it to do so ) the necessary measures to lay down objectives and implement actions
which make it possible to define and formulate a Community telecommunications and postal policy ( and, inter
alia, initiate analysis, elicit comment from the public and monitor the application of legislation ).

Can the Commission ensure that the proposal for a decision in question is not viewed merely as fulfilling an
administrative purpose, i.e. filling a legal vacuum, but also as a means of promoting sound financial and
management practices within the Commission ? Can it also ensure that maximum priority will be given to support
activities for the purpose of monitoring the application of Community legislation ?

(') OJ C 192, 3.7.1996, p . 4 .

Answer given by Mr Bangemann on behalf of the Commission

(4 March 1997 )

The Commission agrees with the comments made by the Honourable Member, and takes note of the
recommendation, firstly, that the draft decision concerning the definition and implementation of Community
policy for telecommunications and posts should be an instrument to promote good financial and managerial
practice within the Commission and, secondly, that priority should be accorded to activities related to the
implementation of Community legislation .

The Commission attaches great importance to the small but important budget line B5-302 for which the
Commission had proposed 8,4 MECU in commitment appropriations in the preliminary draft budget 1997,
whereas the Parliament has decided to put it p.m . while awaiting approval of the legal basis . The Commission
hopes that the Parliament will soon agree to put some credits back on the line .

( 97 / C 217 / 83 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4079 / 96

by Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Commission

( 17 January 1997 )

Subject : Legal protection for encrypted services

The Commission 's Green Paper on legal protection for encrypted services in the internal market ( COM(96)Q076 )
states that the current discrepancies between national laws may hamper the free movement of goods and services

No C 217 / 58 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

and distort competition in the internal market . Can the Commission ensure that the Community lays down rules
involving civil and penal sanctions for the illicit reception and further distribution of encrypted services and for
the various activities aimed at facilitating the illegal interception of signals, such as the production, marketing,
use and possession of unauthorized decoding devices ?

( 97 / C 217 / 84 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4080 / 96

by Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Commission

( 17 January 1997 )

Subject : Legal protection for encrypted services

In recent years the increase in the availability of frequencies and the use of new technology have been
accompanied by an increase in the number of television services whose signal is encrypted with a view to
restricting reception to subscribers . In order to receive the programmes, viewers must have a decoding device
that can reconstitute the original picture .

The market for such services is experiencing rapid growth particularly as a result of the advent of digital
technology, which permits an expansion in the capacity for communication . The specialized nature of these
services often requires a transnational or even European market whose development is, however, being
jeopardized by piracy . A flourishing unofficial decoder manufacturing industry is emerging in parallel to that of

authorized manufacturers, and devices enabling access to a service without payment of the fee are produced and
marketed without permission . Illicit reception results in considerable losses for the service provider and
indirectly adversely affects the potential market of programme suppliers and official manufacturers .

Can the Commission draw up a proposal for a Council regulation allowing more effective harmonization than is
possible under a directive, given that any future regulation, rather than being limited in scope to television
services, should cover all encrypted services, these being defined as services to which access is allowed upon
payment of a fee ?

Joint answer

to Written Questions E-4079 / 96 and E-4080 / 96
given by Mr Monti on behalf of the Commission

( 26 February 1997 )

The Commission is aware of the need for a Community legal instrument that will guarantee legal protection for
encrypted services against illegal interception . The principle of such a measure is laid down in the Commission 's
work programme for the current year, which was presented to Parliament, and is in response to the round of
consultations on the Green Paper . Accordingly, a proposal — currently at the preliminary draft stage — will be
sent to Parliament and the Council .

( 97 / C 217 / 85 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4081 / 96

by Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Commission

( 17 January 1997 )

Subject : Community water policy

With regard to the communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament on
European Community water policy ( COM(96)0059 final ), can the Commission state why the following issues,
which have not been adequately dealt with in the communication, are not deemed to be fundamental to the
development of a sustainable water policy :

1 . a new approach to water use, re-use and saving which, bearing in mind specific regional features and taking
greater account of environmental requirements, would include safeguarding the quantity and quality of
current resources through more appropriate conservation policies, reasonable prices and better education of

consumers ;

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 59

2 . the extension of the ' precautionary principle ' making it obligatory for administrative authorities to carry out
rigorous studies guaranteeing reliable forecasts of individual socio-economic variables ;

3 . the fact that any evaluation in monetary terms of water resources cannot be carried out by viewing such
resources in the same way as merchandise, given that they are of irreplaceable importance for human life,
ecosystems and essential production activities ; the protection and management of water resources therefore
requires the participation of socio-economic operators, and the unequal distribution of such resources must
not be used as a political weapon or give rise to unfair competition ;

4 . the drawing up of rules by the European Union aimed at reducing the risk of accidental pollution of river
basins used as water catchment areas and for water supply ;

5 . the need for greater transparency as regards the state of water resources, so that the framework directive can
establish the minimum data and periodically update information on the fulfilment of the obligations
incumbent upon private undertakings and organizations in respect of the use, production and discharge of
polluting or dangerous substances, and guarantee that such information is made available to the public ?

Answer given by Mrs Bjerregaard on behalf of the Commission

( 14 March 1997 )

With the adoption of its communication to the Council and the Parliament on European water policy (') the
Commission initiated a process of consultation with the Community institutions and more broadly with
interested parties and the general public, including a two day conference inviting participation of the Parliament,
the Economic and social committee, the Committee of the regions, Member States, regional and local authorities,
water professionals, scientists, the water industry and non-governmental organisations .

The Communication discussed the fundamental principles for a sustainable water policy and presented an outline
of a future water framework directive .

The five points raised in the question were included amongst the issues identified by the communication as
fundamental principles for a sustainable water policy . They were also dealt with in the opinion on the
communication adopted by the Parliament on 23 October 1996 . During the constructive debate which followed
the communication, the question of the price of water was one of the issues which gained greater importance and
the consultation process showed that more focus should be put on the polluter pays principle in the future water
framework directive . As a consequence, a separate article on charging full cost recovery prices for water use has
been included in the proposal for a water framework directive which was adopted recently by the Commission as
the outcome of the debate on a sustainable water policy .

(') COM(96)59 final .

( 97 / C 217 / 86 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4083 / 96

by Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Commission

( 17 January 1997 )

Subject : Fraud

With regard to the 1995 report of the Court of Auditors on agricultural policy, can the Commission state why no
justification has been provided for ECU 16.5 million of the ECU 161 million earmarked for the detection of

fraud ?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

(4 February 1997 )

As the Commission explained in its response to the Court of Auditors ' 1995 annual report it does not accept the
Court 's conclusions that no justification was provided for ECU 16.5 million of expenditure earmarked for .
combating fraud .

No C 217 / 60 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

For part of the sum challenged by the Court ( ECU 11.2 million earmarked for financing the integrated
administration and control system and the follow-up and detection of fraud and irregularities ) the Commission,
after having had access to additional information and supporting documents not available at the time of the
Court 's audit, was able to conclude that a major part of the Community funds was spent correctly
( ECU 10.8 million ). Only ECU 0.4 million were not duly justified by the Member States and have already been
recovered by the Commission .

With regard to the other part of the sum called into question by the Court ( ECU 5.3 million earmarked for
financing controls by remote sensing ), the Commission does not accept the interpretation given by the Court of
Auditors . It takes the view that the expenditure was justified and that the amounts in question were used for the
purpose set out in the regulations .

( 97 / C 217 / 87 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4092 / 96

by Alex Smith ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 17 January 1997 )

Subject : Euratom Treaty

Further to the written answer to my Question E-2426 / 95 ('), could the Commission now clarify the following
outstanding matters :

1 . Why are details of the number, frequency and duration of Euratom safeguards inspections at mixed
civil-military facilities since the entry into force of Commission Regulation 3227 / 76 ( 2 ) given only since

1992 ? Can the Commission confirm the date the regulation entered into force in France and the United
Kingdom respectively and provide full details from that date ?

2 . Could the Commission provide disaggregated data for France and the United Kingdom respectively since
Commission Regulation 3227 / 76 entered into force in each country ?

3 . Does the BNF Magnox reprocessing plant at Sellafield remain designated as a mixed facility under United
Kingdom Declarations pursuant to Commission Regulation 3227 / 76 ?

4 . What aspects of Member States ' military nuclear activities are covered by the provisions of the Euratom
Treaty ?

(') OJ C 9, 15.1.1996, p . 42 .
( 2 ) OJ L 363, 31.12.1976, p . 1 .

Answer given by Mr Papoutsis on behalf of the Commission

( 10 March 1997 )

1 . The Commission would like to reiterate its statement that the implementation of Commission Regulation
3227 / 76 in ' mixed ' civil-military nuclear installations in France and the United Kingdom continues to be
performed following the objective declared by the Commission to the Parliament in 1988 ('). There must not be a
net loss in quantity and quality of the civil nuclear material when processed in mixed installations together with,
or sequentially to, non-civil material not under safeguards .

Mixed plants often form part of an installation or site which is treated by Euratom as one unit for inspection
purposes . Therefore, the inspection effort figures in the Euratom computerised database often represent global
data, i.e. there is no differentiation between mixed and civil installations . A large amount of interpretation is
required to arrive at a meaningful split between civil and mixed plants . Moreover, as the Euratom computerised
database dates back only a few years as far as the detailed inspection effort is concerned, the Commission
provided the Honourable Member with a snapshot for the years 1992-1994 in its earlier reply .

Commission Regulation 3227 / 76 came into force both in France and in the United Kingdom on 15 January 1977 .
However, in the United Kingdom, negotiations on the implementation of Article 35 of the Regulation in the
various installations lasted until early 1 986, when an agreement for the Sellafield installations was reached .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 61

2 . Retrieving the inspection effort figures back to 1977 would require the manual checking and retroactive
data entry of hundreds of inspection reports . Necessary human resources for such a task would be extremely
large and unfortunately the Commission will not be able to provide them .

3 . The status of the plant cited by the Honourable Member with respect to Article 35 of Commission
Regulation 3227 / 76 is classified under the provisions of Article 194 of the Euratom Treaty .

4 . As far as Euratom safeguards is concerned, Article 84 of the Euratom Treaty clearly states that safeguards
' may not extend to materials intended to meet defence requirements ...'. Detailed provisions for the
implementation of this article are contained in Article 35 of Commission Regulation 3227 / 76 .

C ) Débats du Parlement : séance du 26 octobre 1988, No 2-370 / 175 à 187 .

( 97 / C 217 / 88 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4093 / 96

by Patrick Cox ( ELDR ) to the Commission

( 17 January 1997 )

Subject : Commissioners ' attendance at meetings

Since the Santer-led Commission took office, how many meetings of the College of Commissioners have taken
place ?

What is the attendance record for each Commissioner ?

Answer given by Mr Santer on behalf of the Commission

( 18 March 1997 )

By 6 March 1997, the new Commission had held 98 meetings . The attendance record is as follows :

Mr Santer 95

Sir Leon Brittan 82

Mr Marin 73

Mr Bangemann 85
Mr Van Miert 91

Mr Van den Broek 82

Mr Pinheiro 80

Mr Flynn 92
Mr Oreja 91
Ms Gradin 87

Ms Cresson 84

Ms Bjerregaard 86
Ms Wulf-Mathies 86

Mr Kinnock 94

Mr Monti 97

Mr Fischler 88

Ms Bonino 88

Mr de Silguy 93
Mr Liikanen 93

Mr Papoutsis 83

The above figures take into account the Council 's and Parliament 's agendas and the external relations
commitments of the Members of the Commission .

No C 217 / 62 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

( 91 !C 217 / 89 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4094 / 96

by Patrick Cox ( ELDR ) to the Council

( 22 January 1997 )

Subject : Ministers ' attendance at Council meetings

In respect of the Italian and Irish Presidencies of 1996, how many formal and informal Council meetings took
place ?

What was the attendance record of Ministers, by Council and by State, as distinct from attendance by personal
representatives ?

Answer

( 18 April 1997 )

There were 101 Council meetings and 19 informal ministerial meetings in 1996 during the Italian and Irish
Presidencies . Informal meetings are organized on the initiative of the Presidency and cannot take decisions .

As regards the Honourable Member 's second question, it should be noted that lists of the Ministers attending are
attached to the Press Releases prepared by the relevant departments of the Council General Secretariat . Those
documents are public and are available to all interested parties .

( 97 / C 217 / 90 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4101 / 96

by Gianni Tamino ( V ) to the Commission

( 17 January 1997 )

Subject : Community-funded ' misleading ' advertising to promote the consumption of beef and veal in Italy

In the last few weeks an advertisement has appeared on behalf of the company G.F. Commercio carni s.r.l . based
in Setteville di Guidonia ( Rome ), entitled ' From the sheds to the stars ' . The advertisement carries the logo of the
CIM ( the Italian Butchers ' Consortium ) and the European Union flag, which is larger than the company 's own
logo, with the caption ' funded with support from the European Community under Regulation ( EEC )
No 1318 / 93 (')', and states inter alia ' beef, because it has a high protein content which is essential to man 's
diet ' . The adjective ' essential ' used in connection with meat consumption was ruled to be incorrect back in 1992
by the monitoring committee of the ' Giurì di Autodisciplina Pubblicitaria ' ( the Italian self-regulatory authority
for advertising standards ) in a case involving ' Consorzio Carni Italiane Bovine Garantite ' and ' CO.AL.VI ', and
the LAV Association has already brought an action against the above-mentioned advertisement .

Is there any truth in the caption in the brochure in question as to the Community funding ?

If the ' Giurì di Autodisciplina Pubblicitaria ' were to take up this case, what might the Commission 's approach be
and what steps does it intend to take in future to ensure that it does not provide funding for initiatives held to be

' misleading ' to the public ?

(') OJ L 132, 29.5.1993, p . 3 .

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 10 February 1997 )

The Commission confirms to the Honourable Member that the advertisment to which he refers was part-funded
by the Community under the promotional campaign run by the Consorzio Italiano Macellatori ( CIM ).

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 63

The Commission does not believe that the phrase ' beef, because it has a high protein content which is essential to
man 's diet ' is misleading since it is based on the results of scientific research which confirms the importance of
proteins for the human diet .

The Commission has however been told that the inter-trade organization involved has decided to amend the text,
following a request to do so from the Italian self-regulatory authority for advertising standards .

( 97 / C 217 / 91 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-41 1 1 / 96

by Siegbert Alber ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 17 January 1997 )

Subject : Europe Agreement of 13 December 1993 between the European Communities ( and their Member

States ) and Poland and new import bans in Poland

Is the Commission aware that a total ban on imports and sales of nasal snuff and other smokeless tobacco
products entered into force in Poland in 1996 ?

Does it agree that an import ban on such traditional tobacco products, the free movement of which within the
Union is guaranteed under appropriate Directives, is inconsistent with the 1993 Europe Agreement, in particular
Articles 25(2 ) ( ban on new barriers to trade ) and 68 ( alignment with Community law ), and the relevant provisions
of the WTO agreement ?

What steps can and will the Commission take in this ( and any similar ) cases ?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 27 February 1997 )

The Commission is aware of the entry into force on 1 May 1996 of a Polish law prohibiting the production and
distribution of smokeless tobacco ( including nasal snuff falling under CN codes 2403.99.10 and 2403.99.90 ).
The Community has effected a ban on the marketing of certain types of tobacco for oral use under Council
Directive 92 / 41 / EEC (') of 15 May 1992 amending Directive 89 / 622 / EEC on the approximation of the laws,
regulations and administrative provisions of the Member States concerning the labelling of tobacco products .
This ban took account of public health protection and of the protection of young people in particular .

Arrangements for dealing with matters of this kind are provided in the Europe Agreement between Poland and
the Community . Either party may request information, in the first instance, and then consultations on matters of
disagreement .

The Commission has asked for explanation of the ban on import of certain smokeless tobacco in Poland . The
Polish authorities have referred to Article 35 of the Europe Agreement which allows for measures of this kind to
be taken if justified by health reasons and as long as they are non-discriminatory and do not result in a disguised
restriction on trade .

The Polish authorities have stated that no discrimination is taking place since the ban applies equally to imports
and to domestically produced products . The Commission has asked for a written explanation of the health
reasons invoked under Article 35 . Once this answer has been received, the Commission will be able to assess the
compatibility with the Europe Agreement .

(') OJ L 158, 11.6.1992 .

No C 217 / 64 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17.7.97

( 97 / C 217 / 92 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-41 13 / 96

by Friedhelm Frischenschlager ( ELDR ) to the Commission

( 17 January 1997 )

Subject : Changes of distribution in the support for INGYOs

Budget heading A-3040 reveals major changes of distribution compared with the 1995 and previous budgets .
Particularly noticeable are, for example, the reductions in the allocations to the IFLRY ( International Federation
of Liberal and Radical Youth ) and the WOSM ( World Organisation of the Scout Movement ). In contrast, the
allocations to other organizations have been substantially increased .

What criteria govern the allocation of the resources under budget heading A-3040 to the various youth
organizations ?

On what grounds were the resources for such INGYOs as the IFLRY reduced so significantly compared with
other organizations ?

It would appear that less account is taken of large organizations, like the IFLRY, which have a relatively small
budget, use their resources efficiently and maintain an office of their own than of organizations with a larger
budget but, in some cases, no self-financed office . If this is the case, why ?

Would it not be appropriate to assure political INGYOs of a stronger base, since they are have far less
opportunity than other youth organizations to obtain resources from other DG XXII budget headings ?

Answer given by Mrs Cresson on behalf of the Commission

(6 February 1997 )

The 1996 financial year saw a significant increase in the number of applications for funding under budget
heading A-3040 (' support for international non-governmental youth organisations ') compared with the previous
year . The Commission received 25% more applications in 1996 than in 1995, while the available budget
increased by only 4% over the corresponding period, from ECU 1.25 million to ECU 1.3 million .

This rise in the number of applications came about mainly as a result of a widespread information campaign
about the existence of budget heading A-3040, involving in particular the European Union 's Youth Forum, in the
interests of transparency and openness . Accordingly, it was necessary to reduce the level of funding granted to a
large number of organisations which had benefited in 1995, in order to give new organisations a share of the
cake . The decision to open the door to new organisations is consistent with the primary objective of budget
heading A-3040, namely to promote the emergence and development of European and international youth
networks and activities .

The criteria for deciding upon the level of funding, as notified to the organisations concerned, were the same as in
previous years . The main elements are the quality of the organisation 's activity programme, the likely impact of
the activities on the target groups, the representativeness of the organisation, its financial needs and the
budgetary resources available to the Commission . The Commission has not a priori favoured organisations with
a large budget over those working with smaller resources . Its calculation of the amounts to be allocated is not
directly proportionate to the organisations ' budget, and the Commission does not intend to adopt such a method
in the future .

As regards political organisations in particular, some readjustment has been carried out to take more account of

such organisations ' representativeness . Like all youth organisations, political organisations have access to other
budgetary resources administered by the Commission besides those falling within heading A-3040 . They may,
for example, be eligible for subsidies in respect of specific activities under the Youth for Europe programme,
subject to the conditions applying to all youth organisations .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 65

( 97 / C 217 / 93 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4114 / 96

by Friedhelm Frischenschlager ( ELDR ) to the Commission

( 17 January 1997 )

Subject : Export premiums for the transport of live animals

In recent weeks it has once again been shown that nothing has changed over the years as regards cruelty in the
transport of livestock . It is unlikely that the new transport directive which enters into force in 1997 will produce
any improvements as there appears to be no willingness to ensure adequate controls or measures to combat fraud .
Cruelty to animals is particularly apparent in exports to third countries where even dying animals or those with
broken limbs are not slaughtered but are forcibly transported to their destination .

How high were total export premiums for the transport of live fattened bovine animals in 1 995 and, if figures are
available, in 1996 ?

The export premiums are clearly paid on the basis of live weight . What approximately is the premium per
kilogram ? Is it correct that on average the figure is about ECU 500 per bovine animal ?

Does the Commission plan to reduce the export premiums for the transport of live animals on the grounds of
animal protection ? If so, over what period ? If not, why not ?

Will it use its right of initiative and in the medium-term draw up a proposal for abolishing the export premiums
and promoting the transport of chilled meat to third countries ? If so, what practical steps will be involved ? If not,
why not ?

Does the Commission have information on how much more ( or less ) expensive the transport would be of chilled
meat instead of live bovine animals ?

Are export premiums or comparable incentives paid for livestock other than bovine animals by the EU ? If so, for
which animals ?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 17 February 1997 )

For the first GATT year 1995 / 1996 export licences were drawn for 302 MECU for exports of live animals .

The export refund paid on beef is differentiated . The rate of refund varies according to destination . The refund
paid for live animals to the destinations with the highest refunds are since 15 January 1997, ECU 74 per

100 kilogrammes for male cattle and ECU 49 per 100 kilogrammes for female cattle . The refund paid per animal
varies according to the level of the refund, the weight of the animal and the destination .

The export of live bovine animals is a traditional trade and as internal prices are above the third country prices, an
export refund can be payable . Export refunds have been paid since the beginning of the market organisation for
beef in 1968 . In certain third countries there is a specific demand for imports of live animals . If the Community
does not offer live animals for sale, other countries will do so and the Community will lose that market .

The withdrawal of the export refund from exporters, where it is shown that they have not fully respected the rules
on the welfare of animals during transport, requires an amendment of Council Regulation ( EEC ) No 805 / 68 on
the common organisation of the market in beef and veal (')• Discussions have started with Member States about
the way to implement such a measure .

The approximate transport cost for exports of live animals from Ireland to Egypt is ECU 168-210 per tonne

( excluding animal feeding ), while the transport cost for frozen beef is around ECU 84 per tonne .

Concerning refunds paid for live animals, export refunds are only granted for live bovine animals and for one day
old chicks .

(') OJ L 148, 28.6.1968 .

No C 217 / 66 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

( 97 / C 217 / 94 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-41 16 / 96

by Nikitas Kaklamanis ( UPE ) to the Commission

( 17 January 1997 )

Subject : Abolition of sale of duty-free goods

The people of Europe are beset by high unemployment which is also particularly exacerbated by efforts to meet
the convergence criteria required under the Maastricht Treaty .

In this context, the decision to abolish the sale of duty-free goods is tantamount to a disaster for those already
working in the field and deprives a dynamic, growing sector of the potential for employing jobless youngsters .
There are also negative implications for the tourist industry since there is an obvious link between low prices and
the attraction of tourists .

Has the Commission carried out a study to identify the full range of negative consequences of abolishing the sale
of duty-free goods ? What measures will it take to eliminate those consequences and will it propose that this
decision, which has so many implications for the whole of Europe, should be reconsidered ?

Answer given by Mr Monti on behalf of the Commission

(7 March 1997 )

The decision to abolish duty-free sales within the Community, which was taken by the Council in 1991 as part of
the moves to establish the internal market, allows such sales to continue until 30 June 1999 ; this has given all the
economic sectors concerned a transitional period of over seven years in which to adapt gradually to the new
situation .

This temporary ad hoc exemption in support of a particular activity is an exception to the principles underlying
the single market . Moreover, it transpires from the report recently presented by the Commission (') that
vendor-control systems are not operating satisfactorily in Member States . The continuation of duty-free sales
beyond the transitional period could also create distortions of competition not only vis-a-vis outlets selling
duty-paid goods but also between various means of transport depending on whether or not they offer duty-free
goods .

The Commission is not planning to conduct a supplementary social and economic study in this connection . It
regrets the fact that the economic sectors concerned have not made use of the transitional period to adapt to the
removal of this tax advantage . It would remind the Honourable Member that, even without this tax advantage,
sales opportunities will still exist . As for duty-free sales, these will continue to be available, by virtue of
exportation, to persons travelling to third countries .

(') Report on the vendor-control systems applied by the Member States ( COM(96)245 final ).

( 97 / C 217 / 95 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-4126 / 96

by Mana Sornosa Martínez ( GUE / NGL ) and
Laura González Alvarez ( GUE / NGL ) to the Commission

( 17 January 1997 )

Subject : Arrival of huge shipments of genetically manipulated soya at European ports

Greenpeace has announced that over 100 vessels will shortly arrive in Europe, laden with US soya, an unknown
percentage of which has been genetically manipulated .

Certain reports claim that in Spain, various multinationals have ignored the controls applied in other countries,
and have allowed genetically manipulated soya to enter the country . Some of the US soya recently unloaded in
Barcelona from the ' Uniwersytet Jagiellonski ' was destined for a brewery .

The European Union has given its approval to the analyses carried out by Monsanto, the soya manufacturer .
Since these analyses were carried out by a party involved in the marketing of the product,

1 . Does the Commission not think that the analyses should be carried out by specialists whose sole interest is
the protection of public health ?

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 67

2 . Does the Commission intend to request fresh analyses whose objectivity is guaranteed ?

3 . What measures can the Commission to ensure that the Spanish authorities and multinationals working with
genetically manipulated soya in Spain are subject to the requisite controls ?

4 . Does the Commission intend to draw up a directive making it obligatory to state on product labels whether
foodstuffs have been produced using bio-engineering ?

Answer given by Mrs Bjerregaard on behalf of the Commission

(5 March 1997 )

1 . On 3 April 1996 the Commission took a decision for the placing on the market of the genetically modified
soya beans for certain uses following a favourable vote at the regulatory committee composed of representatives
of the Member States . This decision allowed a consent to be issued to Monsanto Europe by the United Kingdom
for the specific uses of ' handling in the environment during import, before and during storage, and before and
during its processing to non     - viable products '.

The consent for the placing on the market of these soya beans has been granted in accordance with the procedures
foreseen by Council Directive 90 / 220 / EEC of 23 April 1990 on the deliberate release into the environment of
genetically modified organisms (')• The United Kingdom examined the compliance of the notification with the
Directive giving particular attention to the environmental risk assessment and forwarded the dossier to the
Commission with a favourable opinion . Furthermore, the Commission based its decision on the information
submitted in the dossier as well as the evaluations and arguments provided by the other Member States . The
information provided and the risk assessment carried out has satisfied the Commission that adverse effects on
human health and the environment are not likely to result from the above-mentioned uses of the product .

2 . In the light of the above, the Commission does not see a need for any further studies or analysis . The
Commission is further reassured by the safety provisions of Directive 90 / 220 / EEC, in particular Articles 11.6 and

16, which ensure that any new information which indicates any previously unforeseen risks will be forwarded to
the Commission and the Member States and the consent will be modified or revoked accordingly .

3 . Following the granting of the consent by the United Kingdom, the Monsanto soya beans may be allowed in
all Member States, including Spain, for the above-mentioned uses . The Commission decision and the consent
granted do not exclude the application of national provisions on human food safety or animal feed safety,
provided they are in compliance with Community law .

4 . The Commission recognizes the importance of labelling to consumers . The Regulation on novel food and
novel food ingredients ( 2 ) which has just been adopted by the Council and the Parliament provides specific rules
for the labelling of foodstuffs containing, consisting of, or derived from genetically modified organisms .
Furthermore, the Commission intends to address the issue of labelling in the context of Directive 90 / 220 / EEC on
the deliberate release into the environment of genetically modified organisms .

(') OJL 117,8.5.1990 .
( 2 ) OJ L 43, 14.2.1997 .

( 97 / C 217 / 96 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-4131 / 96

by Luisa Todini ( UPE ) to the Commission

( 14 January 1997 )

Subject : Introduction of ' 117 ' phoneline

On 16 December 1996 the '1 17 ' phoneline, also known as the ' anti-evasion line ', was introduced in Italy . This
allows people to report suspected cases of tax evasion to the ' Guardia di Finanza ' ( inland revenue authorities ) by
dialling 117 .

No C 217 / 68 ΓΕΝ Official Journal of the European Communities 7.7.97

Does the Commission not consider that the setting-up of this line is contrary to Community law on the protection
of citizens and their privacy, not least because such a method could be dangerous, in that people might be
tempted to report others for ulterior motives ?

Answer given by Mr Santer on behalf of the Commission

(5 March 1997 )

The sole purpose of the Italian ' anti-fraud number ' ( 117 ) was to make it easier for the national authorities to
obtain information on tax fraud and irregularities . It is for the national authorities to ensure that the private life of
citizens is protected in accordance with Community law .

Member States must, by 24 October 1998 at the latest, comply with Directive 95 / 46 / EC of the Parliament and of
the Council of 24 October 1995 on the protection of individuals with regard to the processing of personal data
and on the free movement of such data . The Italian Parliament passed Act No 675 / 96 on 31 December 1996 for
that purpose . On the basis of this Act, Parliament will appoint an authority responsible for ensuring that personal
data communicated via the 117 service is processed in accordance with the Act .

( 97 / C 217 / 97 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0002 / 97

by Heidi Hautala ( V ) to the Commission

( 14 January 1997 )

Subject : Tax exemption for xylitol

In its decision of 17 December 1996 the Commission ruled that xylitol ' s impact on health did not constitute
sufficient grounds for granting it exemption from the tax on confectionery in Finland . According to my
information, research carried out in Finland has produced strong evidence that xylitol helps to prevent tooth
decay . According to a study recently published in Oulu, xylitol also prevents inflammation of the ear in children .

What scientific evidence does the Commission have which contradicts the Finnish research findings ? Is the
Commission 's own research recent ? Has the Commission used US research findings and are they independent ?

( 97 / C 217 / 98 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0022 / 97

by Rntta Myller ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 22 January 1997 )

Subject : Health effects of xylitol

A number of research projects have shown that the use of xylitol promotes dental hygiene . According to the latest
research findings, xylitol also helps to prevent inflammation of the ear . It can justifiably be said that the use of
xylitol is of significance for public health .

In view of the effects of xylitol on public health, Finland has exempted it from confectionery tax . The proposal
came from pupils at Vatiala school in the Kangasala district, and a bill to amend the law to this effect has been
passed by the Finnish Parliament . However, the Commission has adopted an adverse position on the tax
exemption on the basis of EU competition rules and has demanded that the Finnish authorities cease their special
treatment of xylitol .

I should like to hear from the Member of the Commission who is responsible for this matter how the indisputable
and significant health effects of the use of xylitol have been taken into account, and how it is intended that they
should be taken into account in future, in determining the Commission 's position with regard to the possibility of
retaining the tax exemption for xylitol .

17 . 7 . 97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 69

Joint answer

to Written Questions P-0002 / 97 and E-0022 / 97
given by Mr Monti on behalf of the Commission

( 11 March 1997 )

Article 95 of the EC Treaty prohibits Member States from imposing, directly or indirectly, on the products of
other Member States any internal taxation of any kind in excess of that imposed directly or indirectly on similar
domestic products . Furthermore, Member States are prohibited from imposing on the products of other
Member States any internal taxation of such a nature as to afford indirect protection to other products .

However, it should be noted that, in accordance with the case-law of the Court of Justice, Community law does
not restrict a Member State 's freedom to establish a system of differentiated taxation for certain products,
provided that it is based on objective criteria . Accordingly, public health considerations could justify a tax
measure in support of a specific sweetener having qualities which prevent or help to prevent tooth decay and
which distinguish it from other sweeteners .

The Commission considers that the sweetener xylitol does not have such qualities . An assessment of the various
publications submitted by the Finnish authorities and of scientific publications on the matter shows that, because
of inadequacies in the methodology used, the clinical studies on the effectiveness of xylitol do not demonstrate or
establish the superiority of the anti-cariogenic and therapeutic properties of the product compared with other
artificial sweeteners . It follows that xylitol cannot be said to have properties that are distinct from those of other
artificial sweeteners, such as sorbitol .

This assessment merely confirms the opinion which the Scientific Committee for Food delivered on sweeteners
in 1984 .

Furthermore, the US Food and Drug Administration ( FDA ) came to a similar conclusion . On 16 August 1996 it
decided, as regards the indications to be used on food packaging regarding the properties of artificial sweeteners
in preventing tooth decay, that all artificial sweeteners should be treated as equivalent .

For these reasons, the Commission decided to initiate the procedure provided for in Article 169 of the EC Treaty
against Finland for infringement of Article 95 of the EC Treaty . The Commission takes the view that, in the case
in point, there is tax discrimination between similar products, namely Finnish confectionery products containing
xylitol and those manufactured using other artificial sweeteners from other Member States .

( 97 / C 217 / 99 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0009 / 97

by Glyn Ford ( PSE ) to the Council

( 22 January 1997 )

Subject : Research Council cancellation

Does the Council consider it an adequate response to an MEP 's question asked in August to give a reply five
months later at the end of December merely referring him to the contents of a debate in October, two and a half
months after the question was initially asked ?

Answer

(3 April 1997 )

The Council regrets the delay in replying to Written Question No 2276 / 96 to which the Honourable Member
refers .

The delay is partly due to the complexity of the procedures for approving replies to Written Questions .

In the case in point, it was deemed more appropriate to reply by referring to the fuller and more up-to-date replies
given by the Council to the Oral Questions on the same subject put in plenary .

No C 217 / 70 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

( 97 / C 217 / 100 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0010 / 97

by Anita Pollack ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 22 January 1997 )

Subject : EC YAM and testing on animals

Would it be possible to have an annual report on ECVAM 's progress in the areas of reduction, replacement and
validation of tests on animals ?

Answer given by Mrs Cresson on behalf of the Commission

( 14 March 1997 )

The report on the activities carried out in 1996 by the the European Centre for the Validation of Alternative
Methods of the Joint Research Centre is being drafted and will be completed during the next few weeks .

( 97 / C 217 / 101 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0013 / 97

by Mary Banotti ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 22 January 1997 )

Subject : EU social assistance butter scheme

Could the Commission explain an apparent anomaly in the EU social assistance butter scheme ? It appears that
the scheme does not extent to margarines and other spreads considered by the medical profession to be less
harmful to the cardio-vascular system .

Given that a considerable number of those qualifying for assistance are the sick and elderly, could the scheme be
more flexible ?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 14 February 1997 )

The Council has on the basis of a Commission report (') decided to prolong for a two year period ending
31 December 1998 the existing Council Regulation ( EEC ) No 2990 / 82 concerning the sale of butter at reduced
prices to persons receiving social assistance ( 2 ).

The scheme allowing for these sales of butter has been in operation since 1978 and together with other butter
disposal measures, serves to reduce the butter surpluses within the Community and, in this way, support the milk
prices paid to the farmers . This aim could hardly be attained if margarine or spreads were made eligible under the
scheme . Furthermore, butter is a high quality product most adequate for human consumption which has been
very well received by all beneficiaries under the scheme .

(') COM(96)65 1 final .
( 2 ) OJ L 314, 10.11.1982 .

( 97 / C 217 / 102 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0015 / 97

by Mary Banotti ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 22 January 1997 )

Subject : Red IFJ card

Further to my earlier Question E-3 160 / 96 ('), could the Commission explain why security staff were instructed
by the head of the Commission 's press service on 29 March 1996 to refuse journalists bearing only the

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 71

International Federation of Journalists ' ( IFJ ) red press card access to the Commission Press room ? In spite of
repeated requests the Commission has still not explained why this step was taken when it was previously possible
for journalists to attend the briefings by showing this card alone .

(') OJ C 91, 20.3.1997, p . 73 .

Answer given by Mr Santer on behalf of the Commission

( 24 February 1997 )

The Commission can confirm that all professional journalists have access to the Commission press room . The
answer by the Commission to question E-3 160 / 96 by the Honourable Member (') stated that for journalists who
are nationals of countries that do not have a national card, equivalents such as the International Journalists
Federation card are accepted for access to the press room . This was clarified in an exchange of letters between the
Commission and the IFJ . The note to which the Honourable Member refers is therefore no longer relevant .

(') OJ C 91, 20.3.1997 .

( 97 / C 217 / 103 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0018 / 97

by Miguel Anas Canete ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 22 January 1997 )

Subject : Monitoring subsidies in the rice sector

A private processors ' organization has been made responsible for the administration of the quantities of rice
assigned to the US in the context of the quotas negotiated in accordance with Article XXIV of GATT . In view of
the fact that there may be cross-subsidization between quantities which benefit from tariff concessions and those
subject to ordinary customs duties, and the fact that it is difficult for this organization to carry out its monitoring
duties, what steps does the Commission intend to take to monitor the flow of packaged products and the
possibility of cross-subsidization ?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 17 February 1997 )

Council Regulation ( EC ) No 1522 / 96 opening and providing for the administration of certain tariff quotas for
imports of rice and broken rice (') stipulates that rice imports from the United States will start only when the
current consultations have been brought to an end . These consultations are not finished yet and therefore imports
from this origin as provided for in the above-mentioned Regulation have not started yet .

With regard to imports of rice in packages of at least 5 kilogrammes and the possibility of cross-subsidization,
Article 9 of the Regulation provides for the Commission to monitor the quantities imported in particular on these
two points .

(') OJ L 190, 31.7.1996 .

No C 217 / 72 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 7.7.97

( 97 / C 217 / 104 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0020 / 97

by Miguel Arias Canete ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 22 January 1997 )

Subject : Balance of 75 000 tonnes of rice left over from the maximum quantities laid down for subsidized

exports in the previous marketing year

The limits on subsidized exports of rice laid down by GATT are insufficient for this marketing year to meet the
requirements of the sector . However, last marketing year neither the quantities laid down nor the funds made
available were used up, which means that 75 000 tonnes remain .

Can the Commission say whether the balance of 75 000 tonnes can be added to the limit laid down for the current
financial year, in order to ease the situation on the market ?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Under the Uruguay Round agreement the maximum quantity of rice that may be exported with a refund in the

1996 / 97 marketing year is 157 100 tonnes .

In the 1995 / 96 marketing year exports attracting a refund ( 89 000 tonnes ) failed to reach the maximum quantity
of 163 000 tonnes . A certain degree of flexibility will be possible therefore for the current marketing year, in the
light of the market situation and budget availabilities .

( 97 / C 217 / 105 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0021 / 97

by Miguel Anas Canete ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 22 January 1997 )

Subject : Crisis in the rice sector

Five years after the entry into force of Decision 91 / 482 / EEC (') on the association of the overseas countries and
territories with the European Economic Community imports of rice from those countries are steadily increasing .

Does the Commission intend to adopt the safeguard clause requested by Italy ?

(') OJ L 263, 19.9.1991, p . 1 .

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 12 February 1997 )

The safeguard measures requested by Italy and Spain were introduced by Commission Regulation ( EC ) 21 / 97 of

8 January 1997 ('). The measure aims to restrict the volume of imports from this origin to mitigate the impact of
duty-free imports on the marketing of indica rice produced in the Community . Under the Regulation a maximum
quantity of 42 650 tonnes of husked rice equivalent may be imported at zero duty until 30 April 1997 .

(') OJ L 5, 9.1.1997 .

17.7.97 I EN 1 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 73

( 97 / C 217 / 106 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0023 / 97

by Fernand Herman ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 22 January 1997 )

Subject : Invitations to tender for service contract

Official Journal C 350, of 21 November 1996, contains a notice of service contract ( page 22 ), which requires
tenderers to

— employ a minimum of 100 professionals in the field of financial and operational audits .

This requirement is unjustified, not least because :

1 . it limits selection to a few large firms, which charge excessive fees that often have no bearing on the quality
of the service provided ;

2 . smaller firms which have the full confidence of other Commission services are thereby arbitrarily
disqualified even though they offer better value for money ;

3 . the Commission keeps claiming that it wishes to promote SMEs, while, in actual practice, it gives large
multinationals preferential treatment .

Will the Commission state whether it is prepared to draw up its calls for tenders in future in such a way as to
achieve the best possible results on the basis of the most comprehensive and highest-quality bids ?

Answer given by Mr Van den Broek on behalf of the Commission

(6 March 1997 )

The invitation to tender in question and its publication in the Official Journal were the responsibility of the
European Training Foundation ( ETF ). The Commission has asked to be consulted before the Foundation
publishes any invitation to tender . This will enable it to ensure that the criteria used in the ETF 's future
invitations to tender are non-discriminatory . It shares the Honourable Member 's concern to open the field of
works and services commissioned by it to small and medium-sized enterprises .

( 97 / C 217 / 107 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0027 / 97

by Jens-Peter Bonde ( I-EDN ) to the Council

( 22 January 1997 )

Subject : Secret declarations

Given the lack of statistics, will the Council provide a complete list of the secret declarations adopted but not
published since 2 October 1995 ?

Answer

( 18 April 1997 )

As regards the activity of the Council acting as legislator ( within the meaning of the Annex to the Rules of
Procedure of the Council of 6.12.1995 ), the Honourable Member has already been informed by the Council in
reply to his Written Question No P-2385 / 96 ( see OJ C ...) on the number and kind of statements in the Council
minutes which have not been made available to the public under the Code of Conduct of 2 October 1995 .

However, as regards the activity of the Council when not acting as legislator, statements made when such acts are
adopted are not made available to the public under the Code of Conduct . The Council is therefore unable to
provide the ' complete list of the secret declarations ' requested by the Honourable Member .

No C 217 / 74 ΓΕΝ Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

( 97 / C 217 / 108 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0029 / 97

by Alexandros Alavanos ( GUE / NGL ) to the Commission

( 22 January 1997 )

Subject : Extension of natural gas pipeline to western Greece and Albania

In its answer to my question No . E-807 / 95 (') on 18 May 1995, the Commission stated that ' the future extension
of the pipeline towards west Greece and Albania is being examined by the Greek authorities .'

1 . Is the Greek Government taking steps to extend the natural gas pipeline to Albania ?

2 . Are there funding problems involved in extending the pipeline to Albania ? What are the terms set by the
European Investment Bank ?

3 . Are there alternative plans for conveying natural gas to the Adriatic coast ?

(') OJ C 209, 14.8.1995, p . 24 .

Answer given by Mr Papoutsis on behalf of the Commission

(7 March 1997 )

The Greek government has stated on various occasions its interest to see the Greek natural gas grid extended
towards the North-West part of the country and interconnected with neighbouring countries, among others
Albania . The Greek government has supported the application to the Commission for the funding, through the
Trans-European network ( TEN ) energy programme, of a feasibility study ( to be conducted by the Greek public
power corporation ) for the extension towards the North-West part of the country and Albania .

The Commission intends to co-finance this proposed feasibility study through the TEN energy programme . Only
after the final conclusions of this study are made available, can the issue of financing the investment, for example
by the European investment bank, be addressed .

The Commission is not aware of any alternative projects having reached a similar level of maturity .

( 97 / C 217 / 109 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0034 / 97

by Jesus Cabezon Alonso ( PSE ) to the Council

( 22 January 1997 )

Subject : The absence of certain regions in the design of the euro

On the reverse side of the designs for the euro banknotes unveiled at the Dublin European Council is an outline of
the map of Europe which does not include European Union territories such as the Canary Islands or the Azores .

Who is responsible for this error ?

Does the Council intend to rectify this error in the final design ?

Answer

(3 April 1997 )

Article 105a(l ) of the Treaty stipulates that ' the European Central Bank shall have the exclusive right to
authorize the issue of banknotes within the Community .'

Pursuant to the fifth indent of Article 109f(3 ), the European Monetary Institute is responsible for supervising the
technical preparation of euro banknotes .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 75

In its press release dated 13 December 1996 when the designs referred to by the Honourable Member were
unveiled, the European Monetary Institute stated that :

— it would continue to work with the designer to perfect the banknotes ;

— the European Central Bank would decide in 1998 on the final designs and order production of the banknotes
to begin .

( 97 / C 217 / 110 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0038 / 97

by Riccardo Garosci ( UPE ) and Luigi Florio ( UPE ) to the Commission

( 22 January 1997 )

Subject : Fiscal measures to improve the situation in the automobile industry in Europe — and in Italy in

particular — such as concessions for first-time buyers of passenger cars, commercial vehicles and
motorcycles

The automobile industry plays a leading role in the Community economy . Its importance in social terms and in
terms of jobs is beyond dispute . The steady automation of production methods has brought drastic changes,
however, and the current slowdown in sales is holding back the industry itself and the activities dependent on it .

Given the above, can the Commission either take direct action or approach the Member States in which the
slowdown in sales is particularly marked, such as Italy, with a View to the introduction of tax reductions or
concessions designed to boost vehicle sales ?

Measures to revitalize the market for passenger cars, commercial vehicles and motorcycles would both safeguard
direct and indirect jobs in the automobile industry and ensure that older vehicles, which are less safe and generate
more pollution than new ones, are replaced . Similar measures have been taken in the past and have proved
successful . These measures should now be updated and extended, and should be geared to first-time buyers in
particular, who could, for example, be exempted from paying VAT .

Answer given by Mr Monti on behalf of the Commission

( 10 March 1997 )

It is primarily up to Member States to decide whether to attempt to stimulate car sales, particularly where it might
involve the use of fiscal measures . In this context, vehicle taxes are not subject to any general Community
system, and Member States are largely free to implement such taxes, or features within their tax systems, as they
choose, provided they do not contravene the provisions of the EC Treaty and, in particular, that they do not
impede the functioning of the internal market .

As the Honourable Members acknowledge, a number of Member States have used measures which can improve
road safety and environmental performance and at the same time stimulate sales of new vehicles . Often these
take the form of scrapping schemes, involving economic or fiscal incentives to purchasers of a new vehicle
where a old vehicle is withdrawn from service . It is of course open to each Member State to implement such
measures, subject to the general conditions outlined above . Such a measure has been introduced in a number of
Member States, including, very recently, Italy .

As regards value added tax ( VAT ), this is a general consumption tax which is governed by Community rules .
Motor vehicles must be subjected to VAT at each Member State 's standard rate, which must be at least 15% . It
would not be possible for a Member State to apply differential VAT treatment according to criteria such as
whether purchasers were first time buyers . That said, Italy could consider extending the right of companies to
deduct VAT paid on cars acquired by them . Such a measure would ensure better neutrality of VAT for business
activities and would at the same time, help to revitalise the car market .

No C 217 / 76 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

( 97 / C 217 / 111 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0043 / 97

by Fernando Moniz ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 15 January 1997 )

Subject : Singapore Conference, WTO and social rights

According to even the most optimistic assessments, the results of the recent Ministerial Conference in Singapore
fall far short of expectations .

However, while some consider that the WTO has simply abandoned the ' social clause ', others see the latest
developments as the first step in a long process ; and others, following the Commission 's assessment, believe that
these developments have established the broad lines for further liberalization and the adjustment of the WTO to
the world economy and led to a consensus or agreement on labour standards, which are internationally
recognized as a fundamental human right .

The British Government has reaffirmed its position that social issues, such as forced labour and child labour,
come under the exclusive competence of national states .

Does the Commission share the British Government 's view ?

What kind of agreement or consensus was actually reached in Singapore ?

Answer given by Sir Leon Brittan on behalf of the Commission

(7 February 1997 )

In Singapore ministers renewed their commitment to the observance of internationally recognised core labour
standards and reaffirmed their support for the International labour organisation ( ILO ) in setting and promoting
these standards . Ministers furthermore rejected the use of labour standards for protectionist purposes and agreed
that the comparative advantage of countries, particularly low wage developing countries, must not be put into
question . In this regard, they have noted that the World trade organization ( WTO ) and ILO secretariats will
continue their existing collaboration .

Trade and labour standards do not fall within the exclusive competence of Member States . The matter has been
raised in the WTO framework in connection with trade issues . The position on competences is very similar to the
case of trade related intellectual property rights, for which the Court of justice has concluded joint competences
exist . Social issues and intellectual property rights have been the subject of harmonisation at Community level,
although in neither case has harmonisation been fully completed .

Some forms of forced labour violate human rights, the respect of which is an essential element in the agreements
between the Community and third countries . Moreover, the Community scheme of generalized tariff preferences
( GSP ) provides (') that preferential treatment may be temporarily withdrawn, in case of practices of forced
labour or of export of goods made by prison labour in a beneficiary country . It provides also that, as from

1 January 1998, additional preferences may be granted to beneficiary countries which apply the substance of the
ILO standards concerning freedom of association and protection of the right to organize, application of the right
to organize and to bargain collectively ( ILO conventions Nos 87 and 98 ), and minimum age for admission to
employment ( ILO convention No 138 ).

(') Since 1.1.1995 for industrial products ( Council Regulation ( EC ) No 3281 / 94 of 21.12.1994, OJ L 348, 31.12.1994, and since 1.1.1997 for
agricultural and fishery products ( Council Regulation ( EC ) No 1 256 / 96 of 20.6 . 1 996, OJ L 1 60, 29.6 . 1 996 ).

( 97 / C 217 / 112 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0044 / 97

by Giinter Liittge ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 22 January 1997 )

Subject : Further harmonization of road signs in the European Union, in particular on the trans-European road

network

The European Parliament has called on numerous occasions — most recently in its resolution on the Common
Transport Policy Action Programme 1995-2000 ( A4-0075 / 96 (')) for the further harmonization of road signs in

17 . 7 . 97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 77

the European Union with a view to increasing road safety . This applies in particular to directional road signs on
the trans-European road network . To this end, the Transport Infrastructure Committee — Motorway Working
Group, in its START report, recommended the creation of a Model Signing Code .

Have any measures been taken in this area ? If so, what are they, and what is the timescale envisaged ?

Are there plans to commission research on this aspect or parts thereof in the context of part 3 of the Fourth
Research Framework Programme ?

(') OJ C 181, 6.6.1996, p . 21 .

Answer given by Mr Kinnock on behalf of the Commission

(6 March 1997 )

The October 1994 report (') on the action Start ( standardisation of typology on the trans-European road network )
included under the heading ' long term vision ' a call for the creation of a model signing code for the
trans-European road network to be implemented in the long term .

Measures taken in this area since then include two studies by the International road federation finalised in 1996,
the first on an integrated direction signing system i.e. based on the main European destinations, and the second
on the consistency between the agreement of main international arterials, the trans-European road network, and
the direction signing project .

Research has been commissioned concerning road signs in the fourth framework research programme . This is
the Arrows project ( advanced research on road workzone safety standards in Europe ) which aims to prepare by

1998 a technical guide on road works signing in order to improve road safety .

The Start report also called for general application at Community level of the Vienna Convention on road traffic
signs and markings . However, discussions in the Council in 1995 on the basis of a draft resolution of the French
Presidency indicated resistance by most delegations to Community legislation relating to road signs .

(') A copy of which is forwarded direct to the Honourable Member and to the Secretariat general of the Parliament .

( 97 / C 217 / 113 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0045 / 97

by Hartmut Nassauer ( PPE ) to the Council

( 22 January 1997 )

Subject : Progress of ratification of conventions and protocols adopted under Title VI of the Treaty on European

Union

For each convention and, where appropriate, protocol, adopted under Title VI of the Treaty on European Union
( together with the Dublin Convention on Asylum ), will the Council give the progress of ratification procedures
as at 31 December 1996 in each Member State ?

Answer

( 18 April 1997 )

The Council is not in a position to inform the Honourable Member of progress in each of the Member States of
the internal ratification procedures for conventions adopted under Title VI of the Treaty on European Union . It
can however state which Member States have already deposited their instruments of ratification for the
conventions and protocols of which it is the depositary .

No C 217 / 78 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

Convention on Simplified Extradition Procedure between the Member States of the European Union, signed on

10 March 1995 :

— Denmark on 19 November 1996

Convention on the Establishment of a European Police Office ( Europol ), signed on 26 July 1995 :

— United Kingdom on 10 December 1996

Convention on the Protection of the European Communities ' Financial Interests, signed on 26 July 1995 :

— No instruments of ratification deposited

Convention on the Use of Information Technology for Customs Purposes, signed on 26 July 1995 :

— Denmark on 1 August 1996

Protocol on the interpretation by the Court of Justice of the European Communities, by way of preliminary
rulings, of the Convention on the establishment of a European Police Office, signed on 24 July 1996 :

— United Kingdom on 10 December 1996

Protocol to the Convention on the Protection of the European Communities ' Financial Interests, signed on
27 September 1996 :

— No instruments of ratification deposited

Convention relating to extradition between the Member States of the European Union, signed on 27 Septem ­
ber 1996 :

— No instruments of ratification deposited

Protocol on the interpretation by way of preliminary rulings by the Court of Justice of the European
Communities, of the Convention on the Protection of the European Communities ' Financial Interests, signed on
29 November 1996 :

— No instruments of ratification deposited

Protocol on the interpretation by way of preliminary rulings by the Court of Justice of the European
Communities, of the Convention on the Use of Information Technology for Customs Purposes, signed on
29 November 1996 :

— No instruments of ratification deposited

For the Convention Determining the State Responsibile for Examining Applications for Asylum Lodged in one
of the Member States of the European Communities ( Dublin Convention ), signed before the entry into force of
the Treaty on European Union on 1 June 1990 and 13 June 1991, the Irish Government is the depositary of the
instruments of ratification .

( 97 / C 217 / 1 14 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-005I / 97

by Inigo Mendez de Vigo ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 22 January 1997 )

Subject : Fisheries agreement with Morocco

At the Euro-Mediterranean Conference on fisheries, Mrs Emma Bonino, the Commissioner responsible for
fisheries, said that the Mediterranean was being badly over-fished and that it was essential to strike a balance
between resources, economic aspects and employment .

What proposals does the Commission have in mind to achieve this objective, taking into account the statements
by Mr Sahel, the Moroccan Fisheries Minister, to the effect that the EU-Morocco fisheries agreement would not
be renewed following its expiry in 1999 ?

Answer given by Mrs Bonino on behalf of the Commission

( 12 March 1997 )

The Commission intends to pursue its fisheries policy in the Mediterranean in accordance with the principles and
objectives set out in the solemn declaration adopted at the Venice conference on resource management and
conservation in the Mediterranean . Copies are being sent directly to the Honourable Member and to Parliament 's
Secretariat . The group of legal and technical experts set up by the conference is to draw up concrete proposals for
improving resource management and conservation . These will then be referred to the General Fisheries Council
for the Mediterranean ( GFCM ) for adoption and implementation .

17 . 7 . 97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 79

The Commission would also recall its proposal for a multiannual guidance programme applicable to all fleets and
Community waters, Mediterranean waters included (').

As far as Mr Sahel 's statements on renewal of the agreement after 1999 are concerned, the Commission considers
that the first response required is the willingness and capacity of the parties to achieve the objectives to which
they are committed under the present agreement so that the bases of the Commission 's fisheries relations with the
Kingdom of Morocco are consolidated .

O COM(96)237 final, 29.5.1996 .

( 97 / C 217 / 1 15 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0052 / 97

by Inigo Mendez de Vigo ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 22 January 1997 )

Subject : Operation of the SIS ( Schengen Information System )

Mr Caspar Einem, the Austrian Minister of the Interior, has said that Austria will probably not enter into the
Schengen mechanisms within the planned schedule because the SIS ( Schengen Information System ) computer
network does not yet have sufficient capacity to operate with ten Member States .

Can the Commission say on what date the system will be operational ? Has any provision been made for adapting
it in the event of new Member States deciding to join the Schengen area ?

Answer given by Mr Monti on behalf of the Commission

( 19 March 1997 )

The Commission considers that this matter falls outside its field of competence . The question should be put to the
presidency of the Schengen Group when it submits its progress report to the competent Parliament committee .
Reports are usually submitted at least every half-year .

( 97 / C 217 / 1 16 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0053 / 97

by Inigo Mendez de Vigo ( PPE ) to the Council

( 22 January 1997 )

Subject : Exclusion of the EP delegation from the OSCE summit

Can the Council explain why EP representatives were excluded from the OSCE meeting held in Lisbon on 2 and
3 December 1996 ? Does the Council not consider that such a decision is contrary to the current attempts to
achieve greater democracy in the working of the Community institutions ?

Answer

(3 April 1997 )

Having considered a request from the President of the European Parliament that the Council authorise officially
the presence of Members of the European Parliament in the European Union Delegationto the OSCE Summit
( Lisbon, 2-3 December 1996 ) the Council noted that there was no agreement amongst its members to accede to
such a request .

The Presidency was available to the European Parliament to provide full information on the work and the results
of the Summit .

No C 217 / 80 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

( 97 / C 217 / 1 17 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0055 / 97

by Giuseppe Rauti ( NI ) to the Commission

( 22 January 1997 )

Subject : Proposal by the Italian Confederation of Agriculture concerning food aid for the Third World

What is the Commission 's opinion of the proposal by the President of the Italian Confederation of Agriculture,
Augusto Bocchini, that the European Union should adopt a programme for the regular dispatch of food aid to the
Third World ?

According to the report in the ' Corriere della Sera ' of 29 December 1996 of an interview given by Mr Bocchini to
the journalist Renzo Ruffelli, the Italian Confederation of Agriculture ( farmers ' union ) calls for the EU to
abandon the ' case by case ' approach it has adopted up to now, to make systematic efforts to help communities
suffering from famine or long-term food shortages and to avoid, in future, being ' obliged to buy corn or rice on
the world market '. In short, ' Brussels should draw up an assistance programme that looks beyond the immediate
short term . Why not earmark a certain proportion of production for food aid right from the start of the agricultural
year ', since there is no getting away from the fact that ' the poorest parts of the world will continue to depend on
Western aid for a long time to come '?

According to the Confederation, ' the European Union is capable of equalling the amount of food aid provided on
average by the United States, i.e 6-7 million tonnes '.

Would the Commission also provide accurate statistics concerning :

1 . what and how much food aid the European Union supplied to Third World countries in 1995 and 1996 ;

2 . the cost of that aid ;

3 . where, on which markets, in which non-European countries the European Union acquired the food aid in
question ?

Answer given by Mr Pinheiro on behalf of the Commission

( 10 March 1997 )

The figures for 1995 show about 1.3 million tonnes of food aid in kind, of which 1.2 million were cereals . The
Commission can respond appropriately to food aid needs arising in developing countries .

The reform of food aid policy and of operations in support of food security culminated in the adoption by the
Council of a new Regulation on these subjects ( Council Regulation ( EC ) No 1292 / 96 of 27 June 1996 on food-aid
policy and food-aid management and special operations in support of food security ('))• The Commission has
carried out a number of evaluations of its food aid, one of them jointly with the Member States, and they brought
out serious limitations in the food aid measures to attain the desired objectives : in substance, a sustainable
improvement in food security for the recipients .

The reform strengthens the Commission 's ability to respond to a variety of situations in which the causes of food
insecurity require different responses . Particularly where food insecurity is not due to the unavailability of
foodstuffs but to the difficulty that marginalized communities have in getting at them, food distribution is not
only palliative but often counter-productive because it causes dependency which is very difficult to put right
subsequently . The Commission, moreover, programmes its assistance, be it in food-aid or other form, over the
medium term . In severe famine situations, of course, whether they are due to the climate or to human agency,
every implementing device employed by the Commission is placed at the service of emergency aid .

United States food aid, however, does not amount to six to seven million tonnes a year but about half that . United
States aid is also bringing in changes for the sake of greater flexibility .

To give an idea of the substance of the reform the Commission is sending the Honourable Member and
Parliament 's Secretariat a descriptive brochure .

(') OJ L 166, 5.7.1996 .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 81

( 97 / C 217 / 1 1 8 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0056 / 97

by Ria Oomen-Ruiiten ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 24 January 1997 )

Subject : European phytosanitary directive

1 . Can the Commission give any information on the implementation of the European phytosanitary directive
( 77 / 93 / EEC (')) in the various Member States ?

2 . Specifically, what is the situation as regards :

— the development of a system for the responsible issue of plant passports,

— the use of plant passports by breeders of source material,

— the number of plant passports issued,

— monitoring to ensure the proper use of the plant passport in trade in source material,

— the removal of obstacles to intra-EU trade in source material and the prevention of the spread of diseases and
pests within the EU, as sought by the directive ?

(') OJ L 26, 31.1.1977, p . 20 .

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 25 February 1997 )

New plant health arrangements to protect the Community against the introduction of organisms harmful to plants
or plant products and to prevent their spread inside the Community were introduced on 1 January to satisfy the
requirements of the internal market .

The Member States themselves and the Commission carry out checks on producers, including importers, to
ensure compliance with Council Directive 77 / 93 / EEC, particularly with regard to the use of the plant health
passport . There has been a constant improvement in the passport system since its introduction on 1 June 1993 for
all the plants and plant products covered, including seedlings and reproductive material of the species concerned
resulting from plant breeding and circulating inside the Community .

In this respect, the aforementioned Directive stipulates that commercial purchasers of plants, plant products and
other items, as end-users engaged professionally in plant production, should keep plant health passports for at
least a year and should note their references in their books . It also stipulates that the plant health inspectors of the
Member States are entitled to carry out any investigation necessary for the purposes of official controls,
including inspection of plant health passports and books . The Directive does not, however, require either the
Member States or the Commission to keep a record of the number of plant health passports issued .

The concepts of ' accompanying documents ' forming part of the plant health passport and ' replacement passport '
will need to be examined by the plant health experts of the Member States and the Commission since, in practice,
often only the accompanying documents are attached to consignments of plants and plant products instead of the
plant health passport itself, and the replacement passport is only rarely used by producers, being considered by
certain Member States as a barrier to trade rather than an additional plant health guarantee .

To date all the Member States are complying with the Directive after having transposed it into national law, since
they find that it facilitates trade by doing away with documentary, identity and technical checks at internal
borders while providing protection against the risks of the introduction or spread of organisms harmful to plants
and plant products in Community territory .

No C 217 / 82 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

( 97 / C 217 / 119 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0061 / 97

by Kenneth Coates ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 24 January 1997 )

Subject : Employment : freedom of movement

Article 123 of the Treaty on European Union states that ' In order to improve employment opportunities for
workers in the internal market and to contribute thereby to raising the standard of living, a European Social Fund
is hereby established ...; it shall aim to render the employment of workers easier and to increase their geographical
and occupational mobility within the Community ...'.

What provisions are there to ' increase geographical and occupational mobility ' of unemployed European Union
citizens who have benefited from the Fund and wish to seek work in other European Union countries ? What
restrictions are there on such movement ?

Answer given by Mr Flynn on behalf of the Commission

(6 March 1997 )

The Commission would draw the Honourable Member 's attention to the fact that the implementing regulations
adopted on the basis of Article 123 of the EC Treaty set out clearly the priority objectives for Community action
with the assistance of the European Social Fund ( ESF ), requiring that, by means of programming, Community
operations are concentrated on the most pressing needs in relation to the stated objectives .

In this context, owing to the seriousness of the unemployment situation in all the Member States, it has been
decided that Community action under the ESF will focus predominantly on combating long-term unemployment
and facilitating the integration into working life of young people and of persons exposed to exclusion from the
labour market ( Objective 3 ), and on facilitating the adaptation of workers to industrial change and to changes in
production systems ( Objective 4 ). The ESF may also provide financing for employment aids to enhance
geographical and occupational mobility .

The mid-term review in 1997 will provide an opportunity to assess thfe ESF programmes now under way and, in
this context, the Commission will examine those aspects in respect of which greater account ought to be taken of
geographical and occupational mobility under the ESF .

As regards obstacles to transnational mobility, the Honourable Member is asked to refer to the Green Paper
adopted by the Commission on 2 October 1996 (')• These obstacles are the object of suggestions for reflection,
debate and action among all the parties concerned .

(') COM(96)462 final .

( 97 / C 217 / 120 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0064 / 97

by Kenneth Coates ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 24 January 1997 )

Subject : Energy : opencast coalmining

Since 1 990, how much coal has been extracted by opencast methods in each of the countries of the European
Union ?

What proposals does the Commission have for the regulation of the industry, particularly in relation to its
environmental impact, and its effects on the health of people living close to opencast sites ?

Answer given by Mr Papoutsis on behalf of the Commission

(7 March 1997 )

Since 1990,. the hard coal extracted by opencast methods in the Community has amounted to 167 million tons
( Mt ), representing about 15% of the total hard coal produced in the Community . Out of this, 124 Mt was
extracted in United Kingdom, 34 Mt in Spain and 8 Mt in France . The annual production in 1996 totalled
22.18 Mt, of which 16 Mt was extracted in the UK, 5 Mt in Spain and 1.12 Mt in France .

17 . 7 . 97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 83

In addition, the Community produces lignite by opencast methods . Total production between 1990 and 1996
amounted to 2,184 Mt, of which 1,685 Mt were produced in Germany, 389 Mt in Greece and 90 Mt in Spain .

Community legislation concerning the health and safety of workers in the opencast coalmining industries
includes Council Directive 89 / 391 / EEC (') setting out the legal framework by introducing measures to encourage
improvements in the safety and health of workers at work, and in particular Council Directive 92 / 104 / EEC ( 2 )
laying down minimum requirements for improving the safety and health protection of workers in surface and
underground mineral-extracting industries .

According to Directive 85 / 337 / EEC on the assessment of the effects of certain public and private projects on the
environment ( 3 ), prior to the authorisation of an opencast mining project, an environmental impact assessment
must be carried out if the Member State considers that the characteristics of the mine so require .

(') OJ L 183, 19.6.1989 .
( 2 ) OJ L 404, 31.12.1992 .
( 3 ) OJ L 175, 5.7.1985 .

( 97 / C 217 / 121 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0066 / 97

by Jaime Valdivielso de Cué ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 24 January 1997 )

Subject : The effective management of products confiscated in line with rules on Community fraud

The regulation on protecting trade marks and intellectual property rights has been in force for 7 years, and its
scope has been extended to cover copyright, utility models and logos . Checks have been carried out by means of
customs instruments enabling over 1 460 cases of fraud to be detected and proceedings to be instigated in three
Member States .

There does not appear to be any policy on tackling the problem of what to do with such confiscated products . For
the time being, the solution is the systematic destruction of these products . This is both costly and ineffective .

There are some rather poignant examples :

60 000 leather footballs have been confiscated in Germany . Their destruction would entail high economic and
environmental costs . Who is to pay such costs — the Commission or the Member State ? Has the Commission
considered the possibility of donating these footballs to children of developing countries in receipt of
humanitarian and food aid ( such as the former Yugoslavia, Rwanda, Zaire, etc .)?

33 000 packs of underwear have been confiscated in Spain . Cannot some imaginative use be made of these by
donating them to charities or humanitarian organizations such as Caritas or the Red Cross ?

Would the Commission consider the possibility of establishing some legal system for disposing of confiscated
goods ? Does it intend to draw up a regulation aimed at finding a use for these goods ?

Answer given by Mr Monti on behalf of the Commission

(7 March 1997 )

If measures against counterfeit and pirated goods are to be effective and constitute a lasting deterrent, not only
must their makers incur effective, proportionate and dissuasive penalties, but the goods themselves must be kept
out of commercial channels in the Community . Destroying such goods, though it can prove costly, is the most
radical method of keeping counterfeit and pirated goods off the market . As a rule, it is for the national courts to
decide who should bear the cost ( the holder of the intellectual property right, the counterfeiter or the person in
possession of the goods ).

Handing goods over to charities or humanitarian organizations is another way of keeping such goods out of
commercial channels . However, like destruction, it is not cost-free : steps still have to be taken to make sure that
goods cannot be resold or find their way back onto the counterfeit market . This may, for example, involve
removing logos and labels bearing counterfeit industrial or trade marks .

No C 217 / 84 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7.97

The Commission has no plans to propose rules on the disposal of confiscated counterfeit and pirated goods .
Subsidiarity dictates that each Member State should be free to decide, either on the basis of national rules or case
by case, how to keep goods found to be counterfeit or pirated out of commercial channels and who should bear
the costs .

Regulation ( EEC ) No 3295 / 94 of 22 December 1994 laying down measures to prohibit the release for free
circulation, export, re-export or entry for a suspensive procedure of counterfeit and pirated goods (') clearly
leaves this up to the Member States, in no way obliging them to destroy the goods . Article 8 of the Regulation
requires the Member States to adopt the measures necessary to allow the competent authorities, as a general rule,
to destroy goods found to be counterfeit or pirated, or dispose of them outside commercial channels in such a
way as to preclude injury to the holder of the right, without compensation of any sort and at no cost to the
exchequer, and take any other measures in respect of such goods which effectively deprive the persons
concerned of the economic benefits of the transaction .

These provisions in no way prevent Member States from giving such goods to charities or humanitarian
organizations if they wish to do so .

(') OJ L 341, 30.12.1994 .

( 97 / C 217 / 122 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0068 / 97

by Florus Wiisenbeek ( ELDR ) to the Commission

( 24 January 1997 )

Subject : Rules on Euro-vignette commissions

Is the Commission aware that the rules on commissions paid to the retailers of Euro-vignettes differ widely
among the various Member States of the European Union ?

Is the Commission also aware that this gives rise to situations where large undertakings selling Euro-vignettes
order them from the tax departments of Member States other than their own in order to obtain higher
commissions ? This naturally results in cases of unfair competition .

Does the Commission also realize that, as the commission is relatively low in some Member States, many
transport undertakings are obliged to pay for Euro-vignettes in cash, the amount of the commission not being
sufficient to permit payment by credit card ? For many transport undertakings that have to be very careful about
costs and margins if they are to continue operating in the market, this may pose liquidity problems .

Can the Commission envisage putting forward a proposal for making the rules on commissions the same in all
the Member States ? If so, how does it think this can be achieved ; if not, why is this not possible ?

Answer given by Mr Kinnock on behalf of the Commission

< 19 March 1997 )

The Commission understands that all end-users of the Eurovignette are charged equally irrespective of their
nationality . This is in line with the requirement for non-discrimination in Council Directive 93 / 89 / EEC on the
application by Member States of taxes on certain vehicles used for the carriage of goods by road and tolls and
charges for the use of certain infrastructures (')•

This Directive leaves Member States free to make their own arrangements and there are no Community rules on
the maximum profit margins of sale establishments . The Commission is aware of the fact that authorities
applying the Eurovignette have reached different agreements regarding the sale terms ( including profit
percentages ) with Eurovignette retailers . This difference is largely due to the prevailing commercial practices
and market conditions in each Member State and harmonization of those conditions is beyond the scope of
current Community legislation relating to the Eurovignette .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 85

However, the Commission believes that all common means of payment ( including credit cards ) should be
accepted for the purchase of the Eurovignette and has therefore introduced an appropriate provision in its
proposal ( 2 ) for a new directive to replace Directive 93 / 89 / EEC .

(') OJ L 279, 12.11.1993 .
( 2 ) COM(96)331 final .

( 91 IC 217 / 123 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0069 / 97

by Florus Wnsenbeek ( ELDR ) to the Commission

( 24 January 1997 )

Subject : Solution for 45-foot containers

Is the Commission aware that a new ' corner casting ' for 45-foot containers has been developed in the
Netherlands, enabling containers of this size to be used without contravening the law on the weights and
dimensions of tractor units pulling containers ? An increase in the distance from any point on the front of the
container to the ' king-pin ', which links the tractor unit and the trailer, prevents the permitted length of the loaded
section from being exceeded . A minor adjustment to the corners of the front of the container permits the use of
the standard size of 45 feet, a common dimension in European road transport for the loaded section of
tractor-trailer combinations .

If the Commission is aware of this, does it realize that this new concept makes container transport fully
competitive with road transport using tractor-trailer combinations, since it will no longer be handicapped by a
lower carrying capacity than the latter form of road transport ?

Does the Commission realize, therefore, that this improved competitive position will encourage intermodality,
since container shippers generally use various modes of transport ?

Given its own efforts to increase intermodal transport in Europe, does the Commission intend to make a careful
study of the possible options for the application of this new technological development and, where possible, to
encourage its use ? If so, how does the Commission intend to go about this ?

Answer given by Mr Kinnock on behalf of the Commission

( 19 March 1997 )

The Commission has been informed about the recently developed new corner castings which would enable
containers to reach a length of 45 feet in the central loading part .

Without prejudice to the need to respect other requirements such as those concerning the safe handling of
containers, and subject to verification of the exact dimensions, the Commission confirms that such an adjustment
could make these containers compatible with the maximum authorised dimensions for semi trailers as laid down
in Directive 96 / 53 / EC of 25 July 1996 laying down for certain road vehicles circulating within the Community
the maximum authorized dimensions in national and international traffic and the maximum authorized weights in
international traffic (')•

The Commission is pleased to note that the industry appears to be able to find a solution for large loading units
which is legally permitted by the Directive, and is convinced that such technical advances will be adopted in the
market without further formal intervention by the Commission .

(') OJ L 235, 17.9.1996 .

No C 217 / 86 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

( 97 / C 217 / 124 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0073 / 97

by José Barros Moura ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 24 January 1997 )

Subject : Aims of the structural funds

In the speech she gave in Montpellier on 19 September 1996, Commissioner Wulf-Mathies stated that she had
concentrated resources on political priorities such as combating unemployment, strengthening competitiveness,
especially in the case small and medium-sized undertakings through support for research, development and
professional training, improved environmental protection and equal opportunities for men and women .

However, there was no mention of economic and social cohesion, including the aim of reducing socio-economic
disparities between Member States, between regions and between social categories .

It must be pointed out that the structural funds are defined in the Treaty and in secondary legislation, and do not
correspond to the Commissioner 's ' political priorities '.

Will the Commission, as ' guardian ' of the Treaties, explain the Commissioner 's definition of ' priorities ' and
indicate the legal basis for her decision ?

Answer given by Mrs Wulf-Mathies on behalf of the Commission

( 28 February 1997 )

Economic and social cohesion is one of the three priorities of the Community . Reducing socio-economic
disparities between Member States, between regions and between social groups is the fundamental aim of the
structural funds and the cohesion fund . Top priority is given to improving the position of the low income regions
and some 68% of the structural funds are concentrated on the 27% of the population living in these areas, while
the cohesion fund offers further support for the four poorest Member States . The remaining resources are
concentrated on support for other disadvantaged regions and social groups — old industrial regions, rural
problem areas, sparsely populated areas and the social groups worst affected by unemployment .

The purpose of the resources transferred under the structural funds and the cohesion fund is not, however, to
redistribute money to disadvantaged regions and social groups, but to tackle the underlying causes of disparities .
In this regard, priority is given to the key factors which have the greatest impact on the development of the
regions, as underlined in the address by the member of the Commission in charge of regional policy in
Montpellier in September 1996 . These are the promotion of competitiveness and innovation through research
and technological development and the raising of the skills base through professional training . They address the
serious weaknesses of the assisted regions by creating durable employment, while promoting equal opportunities
and sustainable development . These factors are seen as integral parts of a coherent regional development strategy
and are specifically identified in the regulations governing the use of the structural funds (').

(') See Article 3 of Regulation ( EEC ) No 2052 / 88, Article 1 of Regulation ( EEC ) No 4254 / 88, Article 1 of Regulation ( EEC ) No 4255 / 88 as
amended        - OJ L 193, 31.7.1993 .

( 97 / C 217 / 125 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0076 / 97

by Karl-Heinz Florenz ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 24 January 1997 )

Subject : Implementation of the Nitrates Directive

1 . In which Member States has the Nitrates Directive ( 91 / 676 / EEC (')) of 12 December 1991 been
implemented to date ?

2 . What percentages of agricultural land have been designated as ' vulnerable zones ' pursuant to Article 3(2 )
in each of the Member States ?

3 . What maximum amounts of commercial fertilizers in kg of nitrogen per ha equivalent are permitted in the
Member States and from what date are these maximum amounts applicable ?

17 . 7 . 97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 87

4 . In which Member States is it a requirement that a balance be established between the anticipated nitrogen
requirements of plants and the supply of nitrogen to plants from the soil and from the use of fertilizers, and which
Member States have also laid down this balanced fertilization requirement for phosphate and potash nutrients ?

5 . In which Member States is the keeping of fertilizer records compulsory for individual farms and what
specifications are laid down for such records ?

6 . In which Member States are technical specifications laid down for fertilizing machinery ?

7 . Does the Commission expect any new distortions of competition between Member States to result from
discrepancies in implementing the nitrates Directive ? '

(') OJ L 375, 31.12.1991, p . 1 .

Answer given by Mrs Bjerregaard on behalf of the Commission

(7 March 1997 )

1 . At the present time the Commission is not in a position to conclude that any Member State has fully
complied with the requirements of the nitrates Directive . The Commission has already initiated procedures
against 13 Member States under Article 169 EC Treaty .

2 . Only Sweden has completed its designations under Article 3(2 ). According to the Swedish authorities this
represents 33% of their agricultural land . It should be noted however that five Member States ( Denmark,
Germany, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and Austria ) have designated the whole of their territory under Article
3(5 ) and hence are exempted from this obligation .

3 . The Directive does not require a maximum quantity of chemical fertilisers to be set, therefore the Member
States are not required to send this information to the Commission .

4 . All Member States are required to include measures in their action programmes that ensure that all
fertilisers ( including chemical fertilisers ) are applied to land based on a balance between the nitrogen
requirements of the crops and the nitrogen supply to the crops from the soil and from fertilisation . This takes
effect from 1 9 December 1 995 . As the Directive does not require balanced fertilisation for phosphate and potash
nutrients Member States are not required to send this information to the Commission .

5 . The establishment of fertiliser plans on a farm-by-farm basis and the keeping of records on fertiliser use is
covered in the optional measures section of Annex II of the Directive under point B9 . At the present time the
Commission is aware that Denmark, Germany and the Netherlands operate variations of this system for at least
some of their farms .

6 . Member States are required to have certain provisions concerning the rate and uniformity of spreading in
their action programmes . This may include technical specifications . Under the nitrates Directive Member States
are not required to submit more general technical requirements to the Commission .

7 . Naturally the Commission is aware that different speeds of implementation in Memeber States could result
in distortions of competition . To prevent this the Commission is currently pursuing infringement proceedings
against most Member States . However it should be underlined that the Directive 's objectives are the reduction of
pollution and the prevention of further pollution and not the reduction of distortion of competition .

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 1 26 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0078 / 97

by Richard Howitt ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 29 January 1997 )

Subject : Environmental management project : Oil production and sustainable development in Amazonian

Ecuador ( ECU / B7-30 10 / 94 / 130 )

The financial proposal notes that indigenous farmers / people need training in order to fill jobs within the
environmental sections in protected areas .

What progress has been made with regard to provision of relevant training and how many indigenous people
have now obtained work via those training schemes ?

No C 217 / 88 [ EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

( 91 /C 217 / 1 27 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0079 / 97

by Richard Howitt ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 29 January 1997 )

Subject : Environmental management project : Oil production and sustainable development in Amazonian

Ecuador ( ECU / B7-30 10 / 94 / 130 )

The Commission is currently funding an environmental programme which aims to assess and monitor the impact
( EI A ) of oil production in three areas within Ecuador : Cuyabeno, Limoncochca and Yasuni .

How many indigenous organizations or representatives have been consulted with regard to planning this project,
and how many indigenous peoples are actively employed as participants within the project ? Can the Commission
provide specific details ?

( 97 / C 217 / 128 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0080 / 97

by Richard Howitt ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 29 January 1997 )

Subject : Environmental management project : Oil production and sustainable development in Amazonian

Ecuador ( ECU / B7-30 10 / 94 / 1 30 )

Indigenous peoples ' culture and lifestyle involve a very special relationship with the Amazonian environment .

What account of indigenous peoples ' livelihood has been made when implementing the EIA project in
Amazonian Ecuador ?

( 97 / C 217 / 129 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0081 / 97

by Richard Howitt ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 29 January 1997 )

Subject : Environmental management project : Oil production and sustainable development in Amazonian

Ecuador ( ECU / B7-3010 / 94 / 130 )

Has the EIA project in Amazonian Ecuador had any real success in regulating the oil companies ' activities within
the regions affected by oil exploration and production ?

What action has been and could be taken by the project managers in relation to oil companies who contravene
recommended practices or ignore the pollution implications of their work ?

( 97 / C 217 / 1 30 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0082 / 97

by Richard Howitt ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 29 January 1997 )

Subject : Environmental management project : Oil production and sustainable development in Amazonian

Ecuador ( ECU / B7-3010 / 94 / 1 30 )

Has the EIA project in Amazonian Ecuador challenged the actions of large logging companies who are
detrimentally affecting the protected environment ? What ' teeth ' has the EIA management if recommendations
are ignored by the logging firms ?

Joint answer

to Written Questions E-0078 / 97, E-0079 / 97, E-0080 / 97,
E-0081 / 97 and E-0082 / 97 given by Mr Mann on behalf of the Commission

(4 March 1997 )

The environmental management project ' oil production and sustainable development in Amazonian Ecuador
( ECU / B7-3010 / 94 / 130 )' is not yet operational . Presidential elections in Ecuador and the reshuffling of ministers
have meant that the ' Comisión Asesora Ambiental ( CAAM )' was dissolved and a newly created ministry of the
environment took over its functions . Accordingly, the financing convention had to be adapted in favour of the
new beneficiary authority .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 89

Concerning the consultation of the indigenous organizations in the planning of the project, the coordinating
indigenous roof organisation COICA ( Coordinadora de las Organizaciones Indígenas de la Cuenca Amazónica )
was closely involved in the design of the project . More specifically, the indigenous organizations consulted were
ONHHAE ( Organización Nacional de los Indígenas Huaoráni en Ecuador ), FOISE / FCUNAE ( Federaciones de
los Indígenas Quichua en Ecuador ), ONISE ( Organización Nacional de los Indígenas Siona en Ecuador ), and
OINCE ( Organización de los Indígenas Cofán en Ecuador ).

In the project, activities are foreseen in order to strengthen the indigenous organizations ( courses and seminars to
help strengthen the negotiating capacities of these institutions with governmental authorities and with oil
companies ; administration and project formulation ). Concerning the participation of the indigenous people in the
implementation of the project once it under way, the project foresees a socio-economic study on the indigenous
communities and on their needs and specific proposals for micro-projects formulated together with the
indigenous people .

The activities of the project in the environmental field focus firstly on making an inventory of the current
situation regarding the respect of the environmental legislation in force and the creation of a monitoring and
control system concerning the impacts of oil exploitation ; and secondly on supporting the creation of a more
coercive legal framework ( establishment of an interministerial commission, technical support for the drafting of
environmental legislation ). These activities should help to create conditions for more sustainable exploitation of
oil in the Amazonian .

( 97 / C 217 / 131 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0083 / 97

by Mark Killilea ( UPE ) to the Council

( 29 January 1997 )

Subject : Guarantee fund for European film production

Given the Council of Ministers ' disappointing treatment of the proposal ( COM(95)546 (')) to create a European
Guarantee Fund to promote cinema and television production within Europe ( Audiovisual and Cultural Council,
Brussels, 16 December 1996 ), what are the plans of the Dutch presidency to bring this proposal back on track ?

Does the Council not accept that a situation where European films have lost half of their market to American
productions, where the EU takes up 60% of America 's film exports, and where in 1995 European broadcasters
spent ECU 1 .3 billion purchasing American-produced films, is one that can be allowed to continue without some
form of immediate and substantial intervention ?

(') OJ C 41, 13.2.1996, p . 8 .

Answer

( 24 April 1997 )

The proposal mentioned by the Honourable Member was discussed by the Council on 16 December 1996, but no
agreement was reached on the central question of ensuring access to capital for the European audiovisual
production industry .

Meetings of the Council 's Working Party on Audiovisual Matters have already been scheduled for further
examination of the proposal .

It is also planned that the subject will appear on the agenda for the Council meeting ( Audiovisual / Cultural
Affairs ) on 30 June 1997 .

No C 217 / 90 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

( 97 / C 217 / 132 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0086 / 97

by Mark Killilea ( UPE ) to the Commission

( 29 January 1997 )

Subject : Farm retirement scheme enlargement clause

Under the present EU Early Retirement Scheme for Farmers, presented by the Irish authorities and approved by
the Commission on 7 January 1994, there is the stipulation that the person who succeeds the transferor / owner as
the head of the agricultural holding must expand the UAA of the holding by at least 5 hectares or by 10%,
whichever is greater .

Whilst the intention behind this stipulation was not undesirable, it has however created an unforeseen difficulty
for many farmers wishing to avail of the scheme, which I believe justifies an alteration to the regulation
concerned . This difficulty, which is being experienced on a widespread scale throughout the country and most
particularly in the west, is that young farmers simply cannot source the extra amount of land to satisfy the
enlargement criteria . There are now countless situations where elderly farmers wish to retire from farming and
are willing to sign over their holdings either to sons or daughters or to other young farmers, and the only thing
preventing such changes taking place is the inability of these young farmers to find this extra portion of land .

This scheme has, 1 believe, been one of the most successful to emanate from the CAP Reform package ; however I
feel it is currently falling very far short of the impact it could be making on the restructuring of agriculture and
farm holdings because of this overly-restrictive enlargement clause . Will the Commission consider raising this
matter with the Irish authorities with a view to a more flexible approach to this enlargement requirement ?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 21 February 1997 )

The Irish early retirement scheme to which the Honourable Member refers is the national application of
Regulation ( EEC ) No 2079 / 92 instituting a Community aid scheme for early retirement from farming ('). One
aim of the Community scheme is to replace elderly farmers with farmers who could improve the economic
viability of the remaining holdings . Hence the requirement to increase the size of holdings through the transfer of
the released land . With a view to flexibility and subsidiarity, the Community did not lay down detailed rules nor
did it put a percentage or minimum figure on the extent to which the holding should expand . It is for the Member
State to assess in the light of its administrative experience the most efficient and appropriate solutions, which
must then be scrutinized by the Commission when the programme is being approved .

The conditions now applying in Ireland as described by the Honourable Member are thus the result of Irish
proposals and discussions Ireland had with the Commission when the Irish early retirement scheme was being
negotiated . If, after a certain period of application, the conditions laid down are shown to be too restrictive and
hamper the proper working and success of the scheme, the Member State can send a proposal to amend the
national scheme to the Commission for scrutiny and adoption in accordance with the procedure laid down in the
Regulation .

(') OJ L 215, 30 . 7.1992 .

( 97 / C 217 / 133 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0087 / 97

by Mark Killilea ( UPE ) to the Commission

( 29 January 1997 )

Subject : Citizens First programme

What is the number of requests for information to date by the public under the Citizens First Programme, broken
down by Member State and the type of query ( i.e. the free phone numbers or the Internet service )?

17 . 7 . 97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 91

Answer given by Mr Monti on behalf of the Commission

(7 March 1997 )

In the period between the launch of the Citizens First initiative on 26 November 1996 and 31 January 1997, the
number of requests made by the public for information ( guides and factsheets ) were as follows :

— via the Citizens First telephone lines

Belgium 4 384
Denmark 987

Germany 11 621
Greece 5 209

Spain 38 718
France 39 512

Ireland 3 783

Italy 51 540
Luxembourg 304
Netherlands 2 579

Austria 2 068

Portugal 5 391
Finland 3 321

Sweden 2 561

United Kingdom 1 427

Total 160 357

— via the Citizens First world wide web

The site has been accessed by 171 243 visitors . The average number of documents viewed is 8 . It is not
possible to provide a breakdown by Member State .

Overall : Taken together there have been 331 600 requests for information from citizens . This represents 2.5 for
every 1 000 households in the Community . In addition, over 1 1 million copies of Citizens First guides have been
made available to the public through distribution points across the Community .

( 97 / C 217 / 134 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0092 / 97

by David Bowe ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 29 January 1997 )

Subject : Cadmium in batteries

The Council resolution of 25 January 1988 on a Community action programme to combat environmental
pollution by cadmium (') points to the importance of the ' collection and recycling of products containing
cadmium, for example batters '.

Given that, in the countries with the most success in recycling batteries, the recycling rates do not exceed 35%,
what action does the Commission plan to take to strengthen Directives 91 / 157 / EEC ( 2 ) and 93 / 86 / EEC ( 3 ) in
order to improve the current recycling rates ? If no action is planned, can the Commission explain why ?

(') OJ C 30, 4.2.1988, p . 1 .
( 2 ) OJ L 78 . 26.3.1991, p . 38 .
H OJ L 264, 23.10.1993, p . 51 .

( 91 IC 217 / 1 35 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0093 / 97

by David Bowe ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 29 January 1997 )

Subject : Cadmium in batteries

According to industry experts, the price differential between NiMH and NiCd batteries, based on today 's
cadmium price and the material price for NiMH, should equal approximately NiCd + 10% per energy unit ( Wh ).

No C 217 / 92 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

This is because the metal hydride electrode is 50 to 80% more expensive than a cadmium one and an electrode
accounts for 10 to 20% of the material content of the battery, thus giving the 10% higher price for the whole
battery .

However, NiMH batteries are today between 200 and 300% more expensive compared to NiCd per Wh .

Is the Commission concerned by this disparity and does it intend to look into this situation ? If not, why not ?

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 1 36 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0094 / 97

by David Bowe ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 29 January 1997 )

Subject : Cadmium in batteries

Does the Commission have any proposals to restrict the use of NiCd batteries in favour of NiMH ones, in light of
the fact that cadmium, in the words of the Council resolution of 25 January 1988 on combatting environmental
pollution by cadmium (') ' has already reached levels which cause concern and constitute a problem for human
health and the environment ', and given that it is technically possible to use NiMH batteries for portable tools ?

(') OJ C 30, 4.2.1988, p . I.

Joint answer

to Written QuestionsE-0092 / 97, E-0093 / 97 and E-0094 / 97

given by Mrs Bjerregaard on behalf of the Commission

( 10 March 1997 )

The Commission is looking into the need for a general review of Council Directive 91 / 157 / EEC of 18 March

1991 on batteries and accumulators containing certain dangerous substances, which may result in a proposal to
the Parliament and the Council . The problem raised by the Honourable Member might find a solution in this
context . Directive 91 / 157 / EEC contains a number of provisions for certain types of batteries, in particular those
which contain more than 0,025% cadmium by weight .

Since nickel-metal-hydride ( NiMH ) batteries are not covered by Directive 91 / 157 / EEC, Member States are free
to introduce measures in order to speed up their introduction provided the measures are in compliance with
Community law . During the revision of Directive 91 / 157 / EEC, the Commission will look into the environmental
and health merits of this type of batteries and if appropriate will consider the possibilities of a transition to them
from nickel cadmium batteries .

The Commission believes that the current cost of NiMH batteries to some extent reflects high development costs .
The price difference is likely to decrease in time, particularly when the company which owns many of the NiMH
patents completes a new factory, which will increase world capacity by about half . For the time being the
Commission believes that it is for the market to find its own price level .

( 97 / C 217 / 137 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0095 / 97

by Carlo Ripa di Meana ( V ) and Gianni Tamino ( V ) to the Commission

( 29 January 1997 )

Subject : Intermodal centre in Olbia ( Sardinia )

Further to our last question ( E      - 12 12 / 96 ) (') regarding the Commission 's willingness to participate in cofinancing
the project for an intermodal centre in Enas ( Olbia ), the Commission replied on 12 July 1996 that funding could
be provided for the centre on condition that the relevant expenditure was incurred before 3 1 December 1996, and
that the decision on where to locate the centre should be taken by the authorities directly involved .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 93

Following suspension by the CORECO ( regional control committee ) of the decision under which the commune
of Olbia had given its approval for the construction programme to be altered so as to locate the intermodal centre
in Enas, in August 1996 the Court of Auditors in Cagliari opened an inquiry into the management of the project
with a view to establishing whether it really was in breach of current town-planning legislation and conflicted
with projects already implemented by other bodies, and thus whether public funds had been properly used .

On 12 September 1996, the regional executive entered the project for a ' railway link to the Olbia industrial port
and zone ' on the list of works to be funded, pursuant to the CIPE ( Interministerial Committee on Economic
Planning ) decisions of 12 July and 8 August 1996 ( Decree Law No 344 of 1 July 1996 ) and in compliance with
current town-planning legislation, which provides for the intermodal centre to be located at the entry to the port .

Rather than allowing the Community funding to go to waste, it would appear preferable to await the conclusion
of the CIPE inquiry into the above project, which is in keeping with the strategic goals set by the European Union
in support of cabotage and three-way intermodal transport ( water-rail-road ).

Has the Commission decided not to provide funding for the Olbia intermodal centre, given that the relevant
expenditure has not yet been incurred, or would it be willing to extend its funding commitment beyond the 31
December 1996 deadline and await the conclusion of both the Court of Auditor 's investigations and the CIPE
inquiry into the project for a railway link to the Olbia industrial port and zone ?

(') OJ C 345, 15.11.1996, p . 41 .

Answer given by Mrs Wulf-Mathies on behalf of the Commission

( 18 March 1997 )

The Commission would refer the Honourable Members to its answer to their written question E     - 121 2 / 96 ( 1 )
where it mentioned that in order for the intermodal centre at Olbia to be eligible for structural fund assistance
under the regional programme for Sardinia 1989-1993, expenditure had to be incurred by 31 December 1996 .
Since this was not the case, the Community funding in question is no longer available for the project .

(') OJ C 345, 15.1 1.96 .

( 97 / C 217 / 138 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0096 / 97

by Jose Apolinario ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 29 January 1997 )

'
Subject : Barlavento Hospital, Algarve — Portuguese ' health operational programme ( second CSF )

Under the ' health ' operational programme, as laid down in the second Community support framework for
Portugal, the Community is to fund the future Barlavento Hospital in the Algarve, a project which will perform a
key role in meeting the region 's health needs .

Can the Commission say how far the project has progressed and, if the case applies, confirm that a study is being
conducted on the investments provided for in the ' health ' operational programme ? If the latter information is
correct, what is the purpose of the study, and what practical consequences are likely to ensue from its findings ?

Answer given by Mrs Wulf-Mathies on behalf of the Commission

( 27 February 1997 )

The project for construction of the Barlavento Algarvio hospital was published by the Ministry of Health in the
Official Journal (') and presented as part of the Health Subprogramme of the second Community support
framework ( CSF ) for Portugal, running from 1994 to 1999 .

The Commission, after scrutinizing the information sent on 14 November and 16 December 1996 ( required under
Article 5 of Council Regulation ( EEC ) No 4254 / 88 laying down provisions for implementing Regulation ( EEC )
No 2052 / 88 as regards the European Regional Development Fund ( 2 ), as amended ( 3 )), gave its assent on the
basis of that information on 17 January 1997 .

No C 217 / 94 ΓΕΝ Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

As with the other 23 programmes of the CSF, the Health Subprogramme is the subject of an intermediate
assessment study by a team of independent consultants awarded the contract for it through a public competition
procedure . Assessment was decided on, planned and has been monitored in partnership and the findings will
serve as basis for the joint mid-term assessment by the Commission and Portugal of the second CSF scheduled
for the second half of 1997 .

(') OJ S 246, 17.12.1993 .
( 2 ) OJ L 374, 31.12.1988 .
(') OJ L 193, 31.7.1993 .

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 139 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0097 / 97

by José Apolinário ( PSE ) and Quinidio Correia ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 29 January 1997 )

Subject : Special aid for victims of the severe weather in the Azores

The severe weather which recently struck the Azores has caused damage running into several thousand million
escudos, and the Community should accordingly provide special assistance to deal with the situation .

What specific aid has already been granted or will be granted to the Autonomous Region of the Azores in the
wake of the violent storms ?

Answer given by Mr Santer on behalf of the Commission

( 14 March 1997 )

The Commission would like to express its full sympathy with the victims of the storms and torrential rain which
hit the islands of Graciosa, Pico, Faial, Flores and Sao Miguel in the Azores at the end of 1996 . The Commission
is aware of the seriousness of the damage, both economic and psychological which the people of the islands have
suffered .

The Commission would remind the Honourable Member that under the 1997 budget no appropriations for
Community emergency aid have been allocated to heading B4-3400, so that no immediate action can be taken .
However, the Commission is currently examining the file to see if it might be able to launch the necessary
budgetary procedure and thus give concrete expression to the Community 's solidarity with the disaster victims .

As regards the damage to infrastructures, the Commission informed the Portuguese authorities on 17 Janua ­
ry 1 997 that it had agreed in principle to increasing the operational programme for the Azores by ECU 26 million,
the additional funds being taken from the reserve for the Community support framework for Portugal . These
extra funds are earmarked for the repair of the public and agricultural infrastructures damaged by the bad
weather .

( 97 / C 217 / 140 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0098 / 97

by Jose Apolinario ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 17 January 1997 )

Subject : Waste tip in Aranjuez ( Spain )

In its edition of 30 December 1996 the Spanish newspaper ' El Pais ' reported the existence in the locality of
Aranjuez ( near Madrid ), next to the River Tagus, of an ash tip, whose impact on the quality of the river 's water
has been a source of concern for the press, the Portuguese Government, the local authorities and the general
public .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 95

Has the European Commission, which has expressed concern about the quality of the water in relation to
investment projects concerning the Portuguese part of Iberian rivers ( Douro, Tagus and Guadiana ), asked the
Spanish Government to clarify the matter ? Given that the Commission has, in the context of the Cohesion Fund,
financed various projects to protect the quality of water in the River Tagus ( Spanish part ), this case should not be
treated lightly but should be given due consideration .

Answer given by Mrs Bjerregaard on behalf of the Commission

( 14 February 1997 )

The Commission was not aware of the situation to which the Honourable Member refers . It will take the

necessary steps to obtain all relevant details and ascertain that Community environment law is being fully
complied with .

The Commission confirms that the Cohesion Fund is helping to finance the Saica project ( automatic water
quality information system ). For the Tagus basin, the Fund 's contribution is ECU 11.44 million . A warning
station is being cofinanced at Aranjuez .

One of the main functions of the system is to control, monitor and sanction any discharges of pollutants into
rivers . The system 's automatic warning stations send, in real time, information on water quality to the basin
centres, which are connected to the water quality department .

This system, once it starts operating at the end of 1997, will ensure the control and monitoring of anything
adversely affecting the water quality of Spain 's main rivers .

( 97 / C 217 / 141 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0101 / 97

by Katenna Daskalaki ( UPE ) to the Commission

( 22 January 1997 )

Subject : Floods in Greece

Catastrophic floods have recently hit many parts of Europe, particularly Greece and specifically the departments
of Korinthfa, Argolfs, Fthiotis and Khalkidiki . These floods have caused rivers to overflow and torrents to form
leading to loss of human life and incalculable material damage . Will the Commission confirm that it intends to
approve appropriations for flood-prevention projects in those sensitive regions and in other regions of Europe
also affected by floods ? How does the Commission monitor the utilization of appropriations earmarked for
flood-prevention projects, or how will it do so in future ? And what steps will it take to tackle the damage caused ?

Answer given by Mrs Wulf-Mathies on behalf of the Commission

( 21 February 1997 )

The Commission is aware of the damage caused in some Greek regions by the bad weather in January 1997 . It
deeply regrets the loss of human life and the material consequences for the regions involved .

The Commission would point out that the Greek authorities can apply to carry out flood protection works in the
affected regions under the Greek Community Support Framework ( CSF ) for 1994-99 . The Commission is willing
to examine in partnership with the authorities the possibilities for such funding within the CSF budget and in the
context of the current operational programmes, provided that applications are sufficiently justified and
well-founded .

Another possibility is the Community Initiative Interreg II C ( spatial planning ), which includes a specific
heading on transnational cooperation to prevent flooding . The Commission is awaiting a proposal for an
operational programme from the Greek authorities .

No C 217 / 96 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

Under the rules in force, the proper use of Structural Fund resources on the ground is a matter for the Member
States . An ex-ante project appraisal system was introduced in Greece for the 1994-99 CSF, enabling the quality
of the assisted projects to be improved .

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 1 42 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-01 02 / 97

by Nikitas Kaklamams ( UPE ) to the Commission

( 29 January 1997 )

Subject : Support for combined modes of transport in the EU

The EU promotes the development of combined modes of transport, demonstrating particular interest in

promoting them through the development of railways, sea routes and inland waterways in Europe . However, in
addition to the above very important configuration, for countries like Greece, with groups of islands, support for
the combination of heavy vehicles ( lorries and buses ) and boats is particularly important . This combination has
for many years solved numerous problems relating to communications and the supply of fuel, raw materials and
goods .

Do the EU 's plans include provision for this form of combined transport, and is funding possible for specific
investment projects ( within the framework of the trans-European networks or elsewhere ) to promote combined
heavy vehicle / boat transport ?

Answer given by Mr Kinnock on behalf of the Commission

( 20 March 1997 )

The combination of heavy goods vehicles and shipping can qualify for support by Member States and other
advantages of Community legislation if it complies with the definition of combined transport in Directive
92 / 106 / EEC of 7 December 1992 on the establishment of common rules for certain types of combined transport
of goods between Member States (')• That legislation states, inter alia, that the transport has to be between
Member States and that the sea link should be at least 1 00 kilometres long .

If the transport chain to which the Honourable Member refers is innovative and connects two or more Member
States, it could be eligible for support under the Pact programme ( pilot actions for combined transport ) ( 2 ).

To qualify for Community funding in the context of the Trans-European network guidelines, proposals would
have to fulfil the criteria and specifications drawn up in the guidelines for programmes of common interest . More
specifically so far as ports are concerned, a group of experts is presently preparing a report on the treatment of
port projects in TENs which will be followed by a report from the Commission .

(') OJ L 368, 17.12.1992 .
(-) Commission Decision 93 / 45 / EEC of 22 December 1992 concerning the granting of financial support for pilot shcemes to promote
combined transport ( OJ L 16,25.1.1993 ) and proposal for a Council Regulation granting Community financial assistance for actions to
promote combined goods transport ( COM(96)335 final ).

( 97 / C 217 / 143 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0107 / 97

by Alfred Lomas ( PSE ) to the Council

( 29 January 1997 )

Subject : Hostages in Kashmir

Bearing in mind the severe weather conditions in Kashmir, will the Council press the Indian Government to make
fresh efforts to secure the release of the hostages ?

17.7.97 fEN Official Journal of the European Communities - No C 217 / 97

Answer

( 24 April 1997 )

Since the abduction of the hostages in Kashmir, the EU has undertaken several demarches both with the Indian
and Pakistani authorities asking them to spare no efforts in order to resolve this crisis . Unfortunately, there has
been no progress on this question and reports about the hostages have been scarce and contadictory over the last
months .

( 97 / C 217 / 1 44 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0I09 / 97

by Carlos Robles Piquer ( PPE ) to the Council

( 29 January 1997 )

Subject : Political prisoners in Nigeria

What information does the Commission have in the framework of the CFSP on the situation of political prisoners
in Nigeria ? In particular, is it true that Chief Abiola and General Obasanjo are being held in total isolation without
visitors or reading material and that nothing is known of their state of health ?

If so, will the Council continue to confine itself to the docile approach it has so far adopted vis-a-vis the
dictatorship under which the most populous country in Africa is suffering ?

Answer

( 10 April 1997 )

The Council fully shares the concern of the Honourable Member about the situation in Nigeria . The European
Union has reacted strongly to the blatant disrespect for democratic principles and Human Rights which has been
the hallmark of the Nigerian regime . This'was reflected by the European Union in the two Common Positions
adopted, on 20 November and 4 December 1995 .

The Common Position of 4 December stated that further measures would be considered, if steps were not taken
by the Nigerian authorities towards an early transition to democracy and to ensure full respect of Human Rights
and the rule of law . The Council has continued to follow the situation in Nigeria very closely, through the
diplomatic representations of the Member States of the European Union on the ground, as well as in consultation
with other members of the international community, and has made known its views in an unequivocal manner to
the Nigerian authorities .

We shall continue to pursue with the Government of Nigeria what has been referred to as a ' critical dialogue ' and
seize every opportunity of presenting out views to the Government .

( 97 / C 217 / 145 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0110 / 97

by Carlos Robles Piquer ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 29 January 1997 )

Subject : Contributions by non-member countries of CERN

According to recent press reports ( International Herald Tribune of 27 December 1996 ) the 18 member countries
of the European Organization for Nuclear Research ( CERN ) have just decided to bring forward to the year 2005
the deadline for completion of the Large Hadron Collider ( LHC ), which will be the most powerful accelerator in
the world .

This decision was taken in the light of the substantial financial commitments made by non-member countries,
including the 530 million dollars over the next eight years tentatively approved by the United States, 77 million
dollars from Japan and contributions from India, Russia and Canada . Will the Commission give details of these
contributions and how they will be spread over time ?

No C 217 / 98 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

In addition, CERN is to close down some of its other programmes in order to maintain the construction of the
LHC, given the reductions sheduled from 1997 in the contributions from the member countries . Which
programmes are to be sacrificed and what are their costs ?

Answer given by Mrs Cresson on behalf of the Commission

(6 March 1997 )

Thirteen Member States are members of the European organisation for nuclear research ( CERN ), and while the
Commission is not a member it has since 1985 held observer status on the CERN council . Thus the large hadron
collider ( LHC ) project is followed closely in the Community, but such high energy physics projects and
installations are funded directly by CERN 's member states, which include Spain, and not by any Community

programme .

The 19 CERN member states decided at the CERN council on 20th December 1996 that the LHC project should
be completed in a single stage and that planning should proceed on the basis that the LHC should be
commissioned in 2005, (a copy of the CERN press release is forwarded direct to the Honourable Member and to
the Secretariat General of the Parliament ). There has been great interest for LHC shown by several non-member
states with considerable firm or foreseen commitment of financial resources as was also indicated by the
Honourable Member . These contributions will be received during the construction period of the LHC, partly in
cash and partly in kind, and agreed case by case . As part of the financing scheme of the LHC project, the CERN
council also decided that the cash management of the LHC project may allow completion of its payment up to
2008, three years after the termination of its construction .

Moreover, the CERN council agreed upon a general reduction in the CERN annual budget, and agreed that
funding for the LHC project will be preserved as foreseen when the project was approved, albeit with a reduction
in the member states ' annual contributions of 7.5% in 1997, 8.5% in 1998-2000, and 9.3% in 2001 and thereafter,
compared to the level foreseen in December 1 994 .

Due to the construction of the LHC, some research programmes which have been exploited for a number of years
and shown remarkable scientific results, while also scientifically paving the way for the LHC project, have been
discontinued or will be stopped later, based on decisions taken already in 1994 . The large electron-position ( LEP )
collider facilities will be dismantled in 2000 in order to make way for the LHC in the same tunnel .

The Honourable Member may obtain further details directly from the Spanish delegation on the CERN council
and from the CERN media service . Their details are forwarded direct to the Honourable Member and to the

Secretariat General of the Parliament .

( 97 / C 217 / 146 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0111 / 97

by Raimo Ilaskivi ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 29 January 1997 )

Subject : Clarification of the issue of bias in connection with the Commission decision on the so-called Tuko deal

During the Christmas recess I sent the President of the Commission, Jacques Santer, a fax asking for information
about the Commission decision on the so-called Tuko deal . Since I have not yet received a reply, I have tabled the
following written question pursuant to Rule 42 of the Rules of Procedure :

1 . Does the Commission take the view that generally accepted international practice with regard to bias was
adhered to when Ilkka Aalto-Setälä — an official of the Finnish Competition Office, which had brought the
matter up — was given the task of preparing the Commission decision on the so-called Tuko deal ?

2 . What measures does the Commission plan to take in order to tighten up any rules it may have concerning the
application of the legal provisions on bias ?

This case has aroused considerable interest in the Finnish media . The Commission 's actions have not necessarily
helped to strengthen confidence in the impartiality of its decision-making, with regrettable consequences for its
authority and public image .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal ol the European Communities No C 217 / 99

Answer given by Mr Van Miert on behalf of the Commission

( 20 February 1997 )

A reply to the Honourable Member 's letter of 21 December 1996 was formulated after the Christmas recess and
sent on 29 January 1997 .

( 97 / C 217 / 147 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0113 / 97

by Jose Pomés Ruiz ( PPE ) to the Council

( 22 January 1997 )

Subject : Compensation for lorry drivers affected by the strike of December 1 996 in France

As a result of the strike in France last December, lorry drivers from other countries suffered delays which caused
them serious financial losses . In view of the gravity of the situation, the French Government promised to pay
compensation .

The compensation was made conditional upon presentation of a document signed by the gendarmerie or French
local authorities showing the length of time the lorries were delayed . Not all those affected can comply with this
requirement, since some of them were cut off at the time and unable to reach an urban centre, while others were
unaware at the time of the strike that this might become an absolute requirement for receiving compensation .
Moreover, some gendarmeries refused to deliver the document unless the drivers went to the gendarmerie with
their lorry or other means of transport .

To resolve this problem and make it clear that the the French Government wishes to pay out all the compensation
which it promised to grant, it should accept any type of proof which can be provided, including tachograph
evidence, fuel purchase receipts from the area concerned, motorway toll receipts, etc .

Given the circumstances, does the Council believe that all types of proof should be accepted ?

If so, could the Council convey the above views to the French Government so as to ensure that the promised
compensation is actually paid ?

Answer

(3 April 1997 )

The matter referred to by the Honourable Member is the responsibility of the French authorities .

( 97 / C 217 / 148 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-01 15 / 97

by Nikitas Kaklamams ( UPE ) to the Commission

( 29 January 1997 )

Subject : Use of asbestos in the Attica water supply network

The Attica water supply network consists almost entirely of asbestos pipes .

Asbestos has been blamed by reputable authorities for causing cancer . Moreover, one of the main reasons for the
decommissioning of the old Berlaymont building, the seat of the Commission in Brussels, was that it contained
asbestos .

Will the Commission say as soon as possible whether the passage of water through asbestos pipes poses any risks
and, if so, what they are ? Can it also say if there is any relevant Community legislation in this area and what
provisions it contains ?

Answer given by Mr Bangemann on behalf of the Commission

( 12 March 1997 )

The Commission understands the concerns of the Honourable Member about the dangers to health posed by
asbestos fibres . It recalls also that the Community has operated a policy of controlled use on the marketing of

No C 217 / 100 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

asbestos-containing products since the mid-1980 's . Accordingly, all but one of the asbestos fibres are totally
banned and fourteen categories of products containing the last remaining fibre, known as chrysotile, are also
banned . Other product categories containing chrysotile fall outside the scope of the Community harmonization
and should be allowed to circulate freely provided they are properly labelled and subject to Articles 30-36 of the
EC Treaty .

Asbestos cement pipes intended for drinking water supply are not included in the categories of asbestos ­
containing products which are banned . Such pipes do not give rise to release of significant quantities of fibres
which are subsequently inhaled . Thus they are not thought to present an important risk of the diseases normally
associated with asbestos such as asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma . The Commission, however,
understands the concerns of the Honourable Member and continues to study such possible risks and any other
possible health effects of drinking water pipes containing asbestos as part of the work programme on asbestos .

The Commission prepared, already in 1993, a draft proposal for a directive to ban asbestos with exemptions .
However, discussions with Member State experts showed no qualified majority could be obtained for the draft
proposal . The Commission relaunched discussions on the asbestos question with Member State experts in 1996 .
The most recent meetings were on 26 July 1996 and 7 November 1996 . The Commission intends to examine, as
quickly as possible, all the most recent scientific, technical and economical analyses in order to propose a
directive of the Parliament and Council providing for a ban on asbestos with exemptions .

( 97 / C 217 / 149 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-01 16 / 97

by Ludivina Garcia Anas ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 29 January 1997 )

Subject : Competition policy and funding of infrastructure for the gas industry in Europe

Can the Commission say how much public aid has been granted to develop the gas industry by the European
Union and the Member States ( direct investment, interest rate subsidies for bank loans, etc .) in the last ten years ?

What impact has this public aid had on the cost of gas supplies ?

Answer given by Mr Papoutsis on behalf of the Commission

(3 April 1997 )

The Commission is unfortunately unable to provide the information requested by the Honourable Member . The
research involved would be difficult as it essentially concerns the fifteen Member States rather than the
Commission . A detailed answer to the Honourable Member 's questions would require long and laborious
research, which the Commission is currently unable to undertake .

( 97 / C 217 / 150 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0117 / 97

by Ludivina Garcia Arias ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 29 January 1997 )

Subject : Competition policy and funding for renewable energy sources in Europe

In reply to a question ( H-0729 / 95 ) (') on public aid to the energy sector, Commissioner Christos Papoutsis stated

' the general rules for the Commission 's approval of state support in that sector follow from Community practice
regarding state aid on behalf of environmental protection . This approach justifies aid on the basis of the
exceptions envisaged by Article 92(3 ) of the EC Treaty, and the Commission will abide by that until the

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 101

end of 1999, although the situation will be reviewed before the end of 1996 .. .. Aid for renewable energy sources
can also be justified in the context of special programmes such as ALTENER, which aims to promote penetration
of the technologies being developed in the branch .'

Does the Commission believe that the development of certain forms of renewable energy has an impact on the
environment ? In what cases would this impact have to be taken into account ( mini-hydroelectric power stations,
wave power, wind power, major hydroelectric dams, etc .)?

(') Debates of the European Parliament No 4-470 ( November 1995 ).

Answer given by Mr Papoutsis on behalf of the Commission

(7 March 1997 )

It is generally accepted that renewable energy forms have less of an impact on the environment than fossil fuels .
More particularly they do not generate net emissions of CO2 into the atmosphere . Therefore the promotion of
renewable energy sources as a substitute for fossil fuels is thus equivalent to an environmental     - protection
measure . The aids granted for this purpose via the Member States or via Community programmes such as
Altener, are thus governed by the general Community rules applying to State aid for the protection of the
environment . (')

It is to these general rules that the Commission referred in its answer to question H-729 / 95, given at question time
during the November 1 995 session of Parliament, ( 2 ) as referred to by the Honourable Member .

(') OJ C 72 . 10.3.1994 .
(-) Parliamentary debates, November 1995 .

( 97 / C 217 / 151 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-01 19 / 97

by Gerardo Fernandez-Albor ( PPE ) to the Council

( 29 January 1997 )

Subject : Retirement pensions for housewives

Although the organization and running of social security schemes is the responsibility of the Member States, the
Commission sought to promote individual rights in the area of social security in a proposal for a directive
submitted on 23 October 1987 ( COM(87)494 final ) (')■

The introduction of a system of individual rights, as an alternative to rights derived from the social security
scheme, would have enabled housewives to be given adequate social protection . The Commission proposed this
directive on an optional basis and as a way of encouraging the Member States to adapt their schemes to family
and social trends . The proposal is still pending before the Council, despite the favourable opinions of the
European Parliament and the Economic and Social Committee .

Can the Council say when it expects to respond to the Commission 's initiative and adopt the directive in
question ?

(') OJ C 309, 19.11.1987, p . 10 .

Answer

( 18 April 1997 )

The Labour and Social Affairs Council on several occasions     - most recently at its meeting on 12 June 1989     discussed the proposal for a Directive completing the implementation of the principle of equal treatment for men
and women in statutory and occupational social security schemes, forwarded by the Commission in 1987 . It was
unable to reach agreement on the proposal, which has not been re-examined since .

In its medium-term social action programme ( 1995-1997 ) the Commission stated its intention of reviving the
discussion of this proposal .

No C 217 / 102 - EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

( 97 / C 217 / 152 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0120 / 97

by Gerardo Fernandez-Albor ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 29 January 1997 )

Subject : Establishment of a European toxicological information service

Statistics reveal a steady increase in toxic accidents suffered by Community citizens who are staying in a
Member State other than their own, especially in holiday periods and in outdoor environments where they are in
constant contact with nature .

In many cases, the lack of information about a public centre or local office which could provide information on
emergency aid for victims of toxic accidents has led to irreversible consequences for such people .

As a result, there are many who believe that there should be a European toxicological information centre to which
such victims could turn in emergency situations where speed is of the essence, in order to obtain immediate
information about local offices, possibly to save their lives .

Does the Commission believe that it should encourage the setting up of a European toxicological information
centre to provide immediate assistance to Community citizens who find themselves in the situations described
above ?

Answer given by Mr Flynn on behalf of the Commission

( 19 March 1997 )

Pursuant to Council Resolution of 3 December 1990 on improving the prevention and treatment of acute human
poisoning ('), the Commission supports the preparation of regular summary reports on toxicological data based
on the reports of poison centres designated by the Member States . The Commission also convenes meetings to
discuss the summary reports and to draw conclusions on the improvement of data collection, comparability of
data, cooperation and exchange of experience between the national centres . An integral part of the summary
report is an updated list of the poison centres in the Community to help communication and collaboration
between centres, in particular in areas adjacent to ther Member States . The latest available summary report ( of
which a copy is sent direct to the Honourable Member and to the Parliament 's Secretariat ) lists 61 centres
operating in the Community .

It has to be noted that standardised information on the chemical composition of preparations is important in order
to ensure correct advice and treatment in connection with poisoning . Both Council Directive 67 / 548 / EEC of
27 June 1967 on the approximation of laws, regulations and administrative provisions relating to the
classification, packaging and labelling of dangerous substances ( 2 ) and Council Directive 88 / 379 / EEC of 7 June

1988 on the approximation of the laws, regulations and administrative provisions of the Member States relating
to the classification, packaging and labelling of dangerous preparations ( 3 ), as subsequently modified, provide an
appropriate basis, by bringing about the harmonisation of the rules in Member States on the classification,
labelling, packaging and notification of products . Additionally, the preparations Directive requires Member
States to appoint the bodies responsible for receiving the information on dangerous preparations in order to meet
any medical demand by formulating preventive and curative measures, in particular in emergencies . However,
Community legislation does not harmonize regulations on reporting the composition of preparations . Therefore,
national bodies might not automatically have all information on the composition of every product on the
European marketplace . Nevertheless, transborder cooperation between national bodies seems in general to work
well .

In view of the existing collaboration between poison centres and the advantages of networking and distributed
databases in the poison centres throughout the Community, the Commission does not see the need to make a
proposal on the creation of a European centre on toxicological information .

(') OJ C 329, 31.12.1990 .
(-) OJ 196, 16.8.1967 .
( 3 ) OJ L 187, 16.7.1988 .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 103

( 97 / C 217 / 153 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0127 / 97

by Gerard Caudron ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 29 January 1997 )

Subject : Fighting alcoholism

Like the European Parliament, the Commission is aware of how much harm is caused within the European Union
by alcoholism, not only in terms of sufferers ' health but also in terms of human, family and social relations .

When the Commission had a prevention programme to enhance public health in Europe adopted, I praised the
initiative in the highest terms at the tin>e, but today I find myself amazed and perplexed by the feeble — indeed
non-existent — measures devised by the Commission as far as fighting alcoholism is concerned .

Can the Commission tell me exactly what its objectives are in the fight against alcoholism and what action it
intends to take ?

Answer given by Mr Flynn on behalf of the Commission

( 18 March 1997 )

The Commission shares the Honourable Member 's concern at the social and health problems generated by
alcohol abuse and would assure him that it is seeking to achieve a significant improvement in the availability of
clear and comparable data, as well as helping to coordinate an overall and well-structured debate which involves
all the parties concerned .

In this field, the Commission is pursuing a balanced policy which takes account not only of public health
interests but also the economic interests associated with the production, distribution and promotion of alcoholic
beverages, as well as respecting the Council resolution of 29 May 1986 on alcohol abuse ('). The Community
health-protection action programme thus allows us to support measures to improve research, assessment and
exchanges of experience on preventive measures and the health and social consequences of alcohol abuse,
together with assisting specific schemes in these fields .

Given that this action programme was adopted as late as the end of March 1996, it is clear that its impact at
national level will still be very limited . Following a meeting in June 1996, which was attended by some
40 experts drawn from the scientific community, the alcohol industry, wine-producers, NGOs active in this field
and health-promotion institutions, as well as the Commission, the following specific activities were included in a
three-level work programme for 1997 :

— support for projects designed to discourage alcohol at the workplace and drink-driving ;

— funding a data base at European level ;

— preparation of a document to be discussed by Parliament and the Council . Moreover, the adoption of the
Community action programme for health monitoring would be a decisive additional step towards the
collection of comparable data at European level .

(') OJ C 184 of 23 July 1986 .

( 97 / C 217 / 154 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0130 / 97

by Gerhard Hager ( NI ) to the Commission

( 29 January 1997 )

Subject : Legal position with regard to regional projects

When regional programmes are drawn up it can happen that an organization or society is the promoter of a
project, rather than the owners of the land, although the project may curtail the owners ' rights .

1 . To what extent must landowners be involved in project planning ?

2 . What legal channels are available to a landowner wishing to safeguard his position ?

No C 217 / 104 \ EN j Official Journal of the European Communities 17.7.97

3 . Are there time limits within which the landowner must assert his rights ?

4 . Is it possible for the landowner to block a project if it implies excessive curtailment of his rights of
ownership ?

5 . What is the procedure for awarding compensation in cases of expropriation-related curtailment of rights of
ownership ?

Answer given by Mrs Wulf-Mathies on behalf of the Commission

( 21 February 1997 )

The questions raised by the Honourable Member fall within the competence of the Member States .

According to the rules governing structural funds interventions, and reflecting the principle of subsidiarity, it is
the Member State authorities which have primary responsibility for assuring project compatibility with national
legislation on property rights .

( 91 /C 2 1 7 / 155 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0132 / 97

by Nikitas Kaklamams ( UPE ) to the Commission

(3 February 1997 )

Subject : Replacement of old pollutant vehicles in Greece

According to recently published statistics, by the year 2000 there will be 1 500 000 cars aged over 15 years on the
roads in Greece, 30% of which will be more than 20 years old . Obviously, this will have a severe impact on the
environment, particularly in the towns and cities, and make Greek roads less safe .

This is an extremely serious matter, as evidenced by the 3000 deaths in road accidents each year in Greece, and
can be attributed in large measure ( apart from inadequate infrastructure ) to unroadworthy vehicles, low safety
standards and less rigorous active and passive precautions .

Is there any possibility of EU subsidies to help withdraw antiquated and pollutant vehicles from circulation and
replace them with new, safe and environment-friendly cars ?

Does the Commission think that a radical reform of the Greek car tax system would be expedient and what
representations has it made to the Greek authorities to bring that about ?

Is the Commission aware of the Greek Government 's punitive policy, as far as the average Greek taxpayer is
concerned, which effectively prohibits him / her from buying safe, medium-powered cars ( 1600 — 2000 cc .)
because they are taken to be evidence of a high income ?

Answer given by Mr Monti on behalf of the Commission

( 10 March 1997 )

The issue of encouraging the withdrawal of older vehicles from service, on the grounds of environmental or road
safety performance, is essentially a matter for individual Member States . As such, it would not be appropriate for
the Commission to finance such activities .

On the question of taxation, there is no Community — wide scheme of taxation of motor vehicles, and Member
States are free to introduce such taxes as they wish, provided that they respect the provisions of the Treaty and, in
particular, that they do not impede the functioning of the internal market . Several Member States have introduced
features into their tax systems aimed at encouraging the withdrawal of older vehicles from service .

The Commission understands that such a scheme was applied in Greece during 1991 and 1992, and that this
scheme was considered to have been successful . More recently, the vehicle tax structure in Greece has been
altered, so that the rates now payable on new vehicles are lower than was previously the case . This has the effect
of reducing the overall cost of a new car, and can also act as an incentive for fleet renovation .

However, the Commission questions whether, under the current Greek tax rules, the treatment of second-hand
vehicles brought into Greece is compatible with internal market requirements . Hence, the Commission has
opened infringement proceedings against Greece in respect of this latter aspect .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 105

( 97 / C 217 / 156 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0133 / 97

by Nikitas Kaklamanis ( UPE ) to the Commission

(3 February 1997 )

Subject : Children born with deformities in Bulgaria

The incidence of deformity among children born in Bulgaria is reported to be particularly high . Bulgaria was
badly affected by the nuclear accident at Chernobyl but the nuclear plant at Kozloduy, with its numerous safety
problems and storage of radioactive waste, has also been blamed .

Is the Commission aware of this situation ? What statistics do its departments have exactly and how will it protect
the population of Bulgaria and neighbouring countries to prevent such tragic social consequences occurring in
the future ?

Answer given by Mr Van den Broek on behalf of the Commission

( 11 March 1997 )

Regarding the incidence of teratogeneses in Bulgaria, the Commission has thus far been unable to obtain any
precise statistics from the Bulgarian authorities .

The national centre of radiobiology and radiation protection has provided some information on the radiation
doses received by the Bulgarian population as a result of the Chernobyl accident and those received by workers
as a consequence of activities in uranium mining and the Kozloduy nuclear power plant . Information has also
been provided on the incidence of professionally-related illness among workers although none are reported for
workers at the Kozloduy nuclear power plant .

The radiation doses to the population arising from the Chernobyl accident are very much less than those received
by the populations living in Northern Ukraine and Belarus for which no increase in teratogenic effects has been
recorded . It is highly improbable that the lower doses to the population in Bulgaria would cause any detectable
increase in teratogenic effects above the natural background level of these effects .

( 97 / C 217 / 157 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0135 / 97

by Kirsi Piha ( PPE ) to the Commission

(3 February 1997 )

Subject : Enlargement of the EU to the east

Assessments are currently being made, inter alia, of the costs of enlarging the EU to the east . In addition, a
political debate is being conducted as to how soon or with the aid of what changes to the policies of the Union it
will be possible to enlarge the Union . Within the Union there has also been a need, on political grounds, to give
certain applicant countries priority over others, for various historical reasons .

It is sometimes said that, for political reasons, the Baltic States should be treated as a block . However, in the case
of Estonia, for example, this principle is not justified .

How will the Commission ensure that each State is treated as an individual applicant, on an objective basis ?

Answer given by Mr Van den Broek on behalf of the Commission

( 12 March 1997 )

The opinions which the Commission is preparing on the applications for membership from the countries of
Central and Eastern Europe will assess their situation and prospects in respect of the political and economic
criteria defined by the European Council in Copenhagen in June 1993 .

The European Council in Madrid in December 1995 asked the Commission to expedite preparation of its
opinions, so that they can be forwarded to the Council as soon as possible after the conclusion of the
intergovernmental conference ( IGC ).

No C 217 / 106 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

It also invited the Commission to take its evaluation of the effects of enlargement on Community policies further,
particularly with regard to agricultural and structural policies and to submit a communication on the future
financial framework of the Community, having regard to the prospect of enlargement, immediately after the
conclusion of the IGC . Finally the Commission was asked to embark upon the preparation of a composite paper
on enlargement .

The European Council stated that this procedure will ensure that the applicant countries are treated on an equal
basis . The Commission, in the preparation of its opinions and other reports on enlargement, intends to respect
fully this principle .

( 97 / C 217 / 158 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0136 / 97

by Gerard d'Aboville ( UPE ) to the Commission

(3 February 1997 )

Subject : Inclusion of the Atlantic Arc in the development of short sea shipping

Although it reaffirmed its interest in the development of short sea shipping in the Atlantic Arc geographical area,
the Commission, in its reply to Written Question E-0467 / 96 ( 2 ) of 29 February 1996, confirmed its refusal to set
up an Atlantic working group on the lines of those set up for the Mediterranean, Baltic, Black Sea and North Sea
regions .

Moreover the Commissioner, replying on behalf of the Commission to Written Question P     - 1288 / 96 ( 3 ) of 15 May

1996 on financing ports under the TEN budget, does not list the Atlantic Arc among the regions with strategic
importance for the development of shipping links .

Could the Commission therefore specify the criteria by which a geographical area is considered to have strategic
importance for the development of shipping links and the reasons why the criteria do not apply to the Atlantic
Arc area ?

In other words, why does the Commission refuse to include the Atlantic regions and ports in its planning and
work on maritime transport in general and short sea shipping in particular ?

(') OJ C 217, 26.7.1996, p . 48 .
( 2 ) OJ C 305, 15.10.1996, p . 79 .

Answer given by Mr Kinnock on behalf of the Commission

(7 March 1997 )

The second pan-European transport conference, held in Crete in March 1994, put forward the concept of regional
conferences for the Community and third countries to discuss matters of common interest in the transport sector .
The Commission therefore initiated work to set up working groups on waterborne transport in the Baltic sea, the
Black sea and the Mediterranean sea regions . The groups have adopted common work programmes which set out
the framework for future cooperation between the Community and third countries in those regions . The work
programmes provide a context for support to shipping projects in third countries under the relevant Community
programmes . Such external relations issues do, of course, not arise in the case of the Atlantic Arc regions .

This cannot be taken, however, as implying that the Commission does not attach importance to the development
of short sea shipping in the geographical area covered by the Atlantic Arc . The Commission has stated on
numerous occasions its belief that maritime transport services should be developed to and from peripheral
regions, including those in the Atlantic Arc . The regions and the ports in the Atlantic area are therefore associated
with the Commission 's maritime activities in the same way as other Community regions and ports .

It is not the intention of the Commission to choose specific regions for the development of maritime links, as it
feels this task remains primarily the responsibility of commercial operators as well as regional or national
authorities . The question of defining criteria therefore does not arise .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 107

In so far as the funding of port infrastructure under the trans-European transport network ( TEN ) is concerned, the
Honourable Member should note that, according to the terms of the Community guidelines on the development
of the TENs, projects considered of common interest and eligible for support may arise in any Community port,
including those in the Atlantic Arc . It is not therefore correct to suggest that this region is being ignored in the
context of the development of the TENs . However, the Commission can only consider projects which are
proposed by the Member States .

In order to provide a basis on which to evaluate the proposals for port projects of common interest, a group of
Member States experts worked with the Commission in 1995 and 1996 . This group has created four regional
groups, including one concerning the Atlantic region, which have undertaken studies in their respective regions .
The aiim is to produce a factual report, to be issued in the near future, which examines the current situation
regarding ports . The factual information contained in the Atlantic group 's study will be taken into account by the
Commission on its future work concerning the maritime element of the TENs .

Finally, the Commission has supported, under the Atlantic programme, studies in the area of shipping and ports
in the Atlantic Arc, and follows with interest the work carried out by its maritime promotion group on these
subjects .

( 97 / C 217 / 159 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0140 / 97

by Arlindo Cunha ( PPE ) to the Commission

(3 February 1997 )

Subject : Penalties for exceeding the base areas for arable crops in the last marketing year

In the light of Regulation ( EEC ) No 1765 / 92 (') and the adjustments thereto, can the Commission give specific
and detailed information about the penalties which Portugal and its farmers might incur because the base areas
for arable crops were exceeded in the last marketing year ?

(') OJ L 181, 1.7.1992, p . 12 .

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 18 February 1997 )

Regulation ( EEC ) No 1765 / 92 establishing a support system for producers of certain arable crops stipulates that,
if a base area is exceeded, the area for which aid applications were submitted for a marketing year is to be
reduced during the marketing year in question proportionally to the overrun recorded . Moreover, a special
set-aside will be required during the following marketing year at a percentage rate equal to that by which the base
area has been exceeded .

The Member States are responsible for establishing the rate by which the base areas have been exceeded .
According to the provisional figures communicated by the Portuguese authorities, only the ' regadio ' base area of
mainland Portugal has been exceeded for both maize and other arable crops . Accordingly, applications should be
adjusted by 5% for maize and 47% for other arable crops .

On the other hand, the corresponding special set-aside has been suspended throughout the Community in
accordance with Council Regulation ( EC ) No 1598 / 96 of 30 July 1996 derogating from Regulation ( EEC ) No

1765 / 92 establishing a support system for producers of certain arable crops as regards the set-aside requirement
for the 1997 / 98 marketing year (').

(') OJ L 206, 16.8.1996 .

No C 217 / 108 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7.97

( 97 / C 217 / 160 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0142 / 97

by Sebastiano Musumeci ( NI ) to the Commission

( 24 January 1997 )

Subject : European rangers

Greater general awareness has helped in recent years to spread a culture of respect for the environment
throughout the Member States .

Apart from the forestry services in individual Member States, there are growing moves to develop voluntary
activities, which in some cases are being placed on a footing of cooperation with public bddies .

Government departments and private groups need to be organized on a uniform basis, given that their work is
being hampered by the lack of common rules and regulations at European level .

Does the Commission not believe that it should lend its support to enable a single European rangers ' organization
to be set up ? Alternatively, what similar steps has it sought to take to prevent efforts and experiences from going
to waste in the future ?

Answer given by Mrs Cresson on behalf of the Commission

( 10 March 1997 )

The Commission is fully aware of the importance of voluntary work in the field of environmental protection . Its
policy is to help valorise this work and to encourage closer links between all voluntary organisations at European
level .

To this end the Commission launched a pilot action for European voluntary services for young people in 1996 .
This action allows young people aged 1 8 to 25 to spend 6 to 1 2 months in another Member State working on a
local project . This is a training experience for the young people concerned and a concrete expression of solidarity
in a European setting .

Amongst other things, the scope of the European voluntary service covers projects for protection of the
environment, conservation of the cultural heritage, civil defence and the development of disadvantaged areas .
The involvement of young volunteers in these measures heightens awareness of the environmental problems that
exist throughout the Community . The volunteers can also contribute to resolving certain problems at local level
and act as a vector for pooling experience between Member States,

However, the Commission believes that the creation of a single organisation on the lines proposed by the
Honourable Member does not fall within its remit .

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 1 6 1 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0143 / 97

by Luigi Cahgaris ( ELDR ) to the Council

( 24 January 1997 )

Subject : Customs treatment accorded to former Yugoslav republics

Under a Council Regulation adopted in December 1996 the favourable customs treatment accorded to all former
Yugoslav republics except Serbia and Montenegro is to continue in 1997 .

At present, Serbia and Montenegro have no foreign currency reserves, and commercial dealings are thus largely
taking the form of counter-trade . The obstacles posed to Serbian exports are consequently turning into so many
barriers to the Union 's trade with Serbia and Montenegro .

In the opinion of the Council, how are countries and regions of the Union which have traditionally maintained
ties with Serbia and Montenegro likely to be affected in economic terms by the refusal to treat the two latter
countries in a similar way to the other former Yugoslav republics for customs purposes ?

By virtue of what conditions imposed by the Council will favourable customs treatment be made to depend on
political change in Serbia and Montenegro ? Within what time-frame will those conditions apply ?

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 109

Answer

(3 April 1997 )

The Honourable Member of the European Parliament has stated correctly that the war in the former Yugoslavia
and the sanctions against Serbia and Montenegro, which were imposed because of its role in the conflict, have
had considerable consequences for the trade relations between the FRY and its neighbouring countries as well as
with the European Union .

Following the Dayton Peace Agreement, the UN Security Council decided on 1 October 1996 ( Resolution No

1074 ) to lift sanctions against this country and the European Union took the necessary measures to implement
this decision .

Subsequently, the Council examined the question of the extension to the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia ( FRY )
of the autonomous import regime ( for 1996 ), which the Community has been applying unilaterally since the start
of the conflict to those Republics, which were considered as being ' cooperative '. While agreeing in principle
that such measures could be extended to the FRY, the Council decided on 6 December 1996 that the moment for
such an extension had not come, considering in particular the undemocratic annulment of certain election results
and arbitrary action regarding independent media .

In line with this decision the Council adopted on 20 December 1996 a new regulation which foresees an
extension for 1997 of the autonomous preferential treatment concerning imports from Bosnia and Herzegovina,
Croatia, the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia and Slovenia ( this latter only regarding imports of wine
because the applicaton of the interim Agreement with Slovenia is from the 1st January 1997 ) but excluding for
the time being imports from FRY . The Council continues to closely monitor the situation .

Lastly, it should be added that on 24 February 1997 the Council discussed the situation in the Federal Republic of
Yugoslavia in the light of the fact-finding mission to Belgrade undertaken by the Presidency and the Commission
on 20 February 1997 . On that occasion the Council agreed to examine new measures regarding the Federal
Republic of Yugoslavia at its next meeting .

( 97 / C 217 / 162 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0147 / 97

by Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Commission

(3 February 1997 )

Subject : Conservation of fishery resources in the Mediterranean

With reference to the Proposal for a Council Regulation ( EC ) introducing transitional measures into Regulation
( EC ) No 1626 / 94 laying down certain technical measures for the conservation of fishery resources in the
Mediterranean ( COM(96)0128 final ) ('), the measures proposed cannot be supported because, although they are
transitional and limited in time, they would set a serious precedent which could undermine efforts to promote a
policy for the conservation of fishery resources in the Mediterranean .

Will the Commission therefore exert pressure on the third countries which exploit these fishery resources in the
Mediterranean to make similar efforts to rationalize their exploitation of fishery resources in the region ?

(') OJ C 176, 19.6.1996, p . 14 .

Answer given by Mrs Bonino on behalf of the Commission

(3 March 1997 )

The purpose of the proposal for a Regulation to which the Honourable Member refers is to remedy a specific
situation which has occurred in the Adriatic since the entry into force of Regulation ( EC ) No 1626 / 94 laying
down certain technical measures for the conservation of fishery resources in the Mediterranean ('). The measures
proposed by the Commission are transitional and aim to enable Italian fishermen in the Adriatic region to adapt
gradually to the implementation of the measures in Regulation ( EC ) No 1626 / 94 .

No C 217 / 1 10 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17.7.97

The Commission shares the Honourable Member 's concern that non-member countries which exploit the fishery
resources of the Mediterranean should undertake rationalization measures as soon as possible . To this end it will
consult the group of legal and technical experts set up by the Venice Conference on fisheries management in the
Mediterranean .

(') OJ L 171, 6.7.1994 .

( 97 / C 217 / 163 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0148 / 97

by Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Council

( 30 January 1997 )

Subject : Solvency ratio for credit institutions

With reference to the Proposal for a European Parliament and Council Directive amending Council Directive
89 / 647 / EEC on the solvency ratio for credit institutions ( COM(95)709 final ) ('), will the Council, in future,
harmonize the provisions relating to risk coverage for banks in order to prevent distortions of competition ?

(') OJ C 114, 19.4.1996, p . 9 .

Answer

( 18 April 1997 )

The Council is currently examining the proposal for a Directive of the European Parliament and of the Council
amending Council Directive 89 / 647 / EEC on a solvency ratio for credit institutions ( COM(95)709 final ). As soon
as the common position has been adopted, it will be forwarded to the European Parliament in accordance with the
procedure provided for in Article 189b of the Treaty establishing the European Community .

The Council has also received a proposal for a European Parliament and Council Directive amending Article 12
of Directive 77 / 780 / EEC on the coordination of laws, regulations and administrative provisions relating to the
taking up and pursuit of the business of credit institutions, Articles 2, 6, 7 and 8 and Annexes II and III of
Directive 89 / 647 / EEC on a solvency ratio for credit institutions and Article 2 and Annex II of Directive 93 / 6 / EEC
onthe capita ] adequacy of investment firms and credit institutions, submitted by the Commission on
29 May 1996 ( COM(96)83 final / 2 ), with regard to which the European Parliament has not yet delivered its
Opinion .

The Council has not at present received any other proposals relating to risk coverage for banks .

( 97 / C 217 / 164 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0149 / 97

by Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Commission

(3 February 1997 )

Subject : Solvency ratio for credit institutions

With reference to the Proposal for a European Parliament and Council Directive amending Council Directive

89 / 647 / EEC on the solvency ratio for credit institutions ( COM(95)7C)9 final ) ('), will the Commission, in future,
harmonize the provisions relating to risk coverage for banks in order to prevent distortions of competition ?

(') OJ C 114, 19.4.1996, p . 9 .

Answer given by Mr Monti on behalf of the Commission

( 24 February 1997 )

Banking risks were harmonized by the Community through the adoption of Directives 89 / 647 / EEC ( solvency
ratio ) (') and 93 / 6 / EEC ( capital adequacy ) ( 2 ). Directive 92 / 121 / EEC ( 3 ) harmonized the main rules governing
the monitoring of large exposures .

17.7.97 F EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 1 11

The introduction of these common standards is an essential factor in bringing about the mutual recognition of
supervisory techniques . The standards are also aimed at preventing the kind of distortions of competition which
could occur if Member States applied significantly different weightings to risks . However, the harmonization
introduced by Community law does not prevent the authorities from fixing higher weightings if they see fit ( see
Article 6(1 ) of Directive 89 / 647 / EEC ). The operation of the rules governing the market obviously results in
national rules being aligned on Community standards, although some slight differences still remain .

As regards the proposal amending the Directive on the solvency ratio, to which the Honourable Member refers,
the Commission has merely followed the same approach as in the basic Directive . The possibility of applying a
50% weighting to certain loans secured by mortgages on business premises needs to be extended to all Member
States ( instead of being restricted to those referred to in Article 1 1 ( 4 ) of Directive 89 / 647 / EEC ) in order to
guarantee equal conditions of competition, although the authorities are not obliged to apply such a weighting if
they do not deem it necessary .

(') OJ L 386, 30.12.1989 .
( 2 ) OJ L 141, 11.6.1993 .
(') OJ L 29, 5.2.1993 .

( 97 /C 217 / 165 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0154 / 97

by Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Commission

(3 February 1997 )

Subject : Protection of geographical indications

In connection with the Proposal for a Council regulation ( EC ) amending Regulation ( EEC ) No 2081 / 92 on the
protection of geographical indications and designations of origin for agricultural products and foodstuffs
( COM(96)266 final ) ('), will the Commission propose measures in the near future to broaden the definition of
designations of origin for agricultural products and foodstuffs in order to consolidate the internal market and
strengthen consumer confidence in products produced in the Union ?

(') OJ C 241, 20.8.1996, p . 7 .

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

(5 March 1997 )

Regulation ( EEC ) No 2081 / 92 of 14 July 1992 (') applies to a wide range of products, in particular :

— agricultural products intended for human consumption as referred to in Annex II to the EC treaty ;

— foodstuffs as referred to in Annex I to the Regulation in question ;

— other agricultural products specifically indicated in Annex II to that Regulation .

On the basis of the proposal for a Council Regulation amending Regulation ( EEC ) No 2081 / 92 on the protection
of geographical indications and designations of origin for agricultural products and foodstuffs mentioned by the
Honourable Member, Parliament proposed, at its sitting of 17 January 1997, that Annexes I and II of the
Regulation should be amended in accordance with the procedure provided for in Article 15, and that ' cork ' and

' cochineal ' be added to Annex II . The Commission has welcomed this proposal and set in motion the procedure
necessary to implement it .

(') OJ L 208, 24.7.1992 .

No C 217 / 1 12 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

( 97 / C 217 / 166 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0155 / 97

by Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Council

( 30 January 1997 )

Subject : Products processed from lemons

In adopting the price package for the marketing year 1995 / 1996, the Council adopted Regulation ( EC )
No 1543 / 95 (') which allows the Member States to pay financial compensation directly to producers of oranges,
mandarins and Clementines, to alleviate the financial problems experienced by processing companies .

Does the Council not agree that a radical review needs to be made of the current Community arrangements
relating to the processing of citrus fruits since experience has shown that the minimum price is not always
respected by the industry and that once the supply contracts have been concluded they are not met in full ?

(') OJ L 148, 30.6.1995, p . 30 .

Answer

( 18 April 1997 )

After adoption of the Regulation mentioned by the Honourable Member, the Council adopted, in the context of
the price package for the financial year 1996 / 1997, two Regulations ( Nos 2086 / 96 and 2087 / 96 (') allowing
Member States to pay financial compensation directly to producers for products covered by Regulation ( EC )
No 31 19 / 93 ( 2 ) ( viz ., oranges, mandarins, Clementines and satsumas ) and for lemons .

Furthermore, the Council, like the Honourable Member, felt there was a need for a radical review of the aid
arrangements for the processing of certain citrus fruits and adopted on 28 October 1996, in parallel with the
reform of the common organization of the market in fruit and vegetables ( Regulation ( EC ) No 2200 / 96 ( 3 ) and in
processed fruit and vegetable products ( Regulation ( EC ) No 2201 / 96 ( 4 ), a Regulation introducing an aid scheme
for producers of certain citrus fruits ( Regulation No 2202 / 96 ( 5 ), which covers the following products : lemons,
grapefruit, oranges, mandarins, Clementines and satsumas .

C ) OJ L 282, 1.11 [ .] 1996 [ .]
0 OJ L 279, 12.1 1.1993 [ .]
O OJ L 297, 21.1 1.1996 [ .]

( 4 ) OJ L 297, 21.1 1.1996 .
C ) OJ L 297, 21.1 1.1996 [ .]

( 97 / C 217 / 167 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0161 / 97

by Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Commission

(3 February 1997 )

Subject : Outermost regions and islands

With reference to the document concerning the problems of agriculture in the European Union 's outermost
regions and islands, the agricultural situation in the EU 's outlying regions and islands has taken on even greater
importance following the accession of Sweden and Finland .

Like the outermost regions, the Arctic regions of the new Member States are at a permanent disadvantage in
terms of production and marketing and this reduces the agricultural sector 's competitiveness . Will the EC adapt
the regulations and instruments of the CAP and launch research and development measures in favour of the
typical, specific products of these regions ?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 26 February 1997 )

In order to take account of the economic and social lags in the most remote regions ( Objective 1 ), which is
compounded by long-term structural factors ( remoteness, island status and small local markets ) and in
compliance with the declaration on the outermost regions of the Community attached to the EC Treaty, the

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 1 13

Community in 1991 and 1992 introduced three specific programmes : Poseidom ( for the French overseas
departments of Martinique, Guadeloupe, French Guiana and Reunion ), Poseima ( for the Portuguese archipelagos
of Madeira and the Azores ) and Poseican ( for the Canary Islands ). These programmes were tailored to the
specific characteristics of the individual regions and cover a number of sectors . The agricultural component is of
major importance, comprising aid additional to that under the common agricultural policy and specific aid for a
wide range of products .

The Arctic regions of Sweden and Finland were declared Objective 6 regions on the accession of these two
Member States and within this framework have specific programming documents ( Arinco No 95FI 16002 and
Arinco No 95SE 16001 ). The rural development strategy for these regions provides therefore for specific support
measures for their typical products . Research projects in this context are financed also if necessary . Article 1 42 of
the Act of Accession of Austria, Finland and Sweden provides furthermore for Commission authorization of
long-term national aids granted by Finland and Sweden designed to ensure the continuation of farming in regions
located north of the 62nd parallel, which account for 14% of the agricultural area of Sweden and 55% of that of
Finland ( Decision 95 / 196 / EC (') for Finland and Decision 96 / 228 / EC ( 2 ) for Sweden ).

(') OJ L 126, 9.6.1995 .
( 2 ) OJ L 76, 26.3.1996 .

( 97 / C 217 / 168 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0162 / 97

by Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Commission

(3 February 1997 )

Subject : Employment

At the Conference on Growth and Employment held in Rome in June 1996, the Commission President,
Mr Santer, presented a Commission proposal which was described as wholly innovatory . He proposed that an
appropriate selection procedure should be used to secure applications by the end of 1 996 from cities and regions
in each Member State which intended to promote exceptional measures to support employment under a territorial
pact . These territorial pacts would set an example to Europe and enable better use to be made of the margins
available in the Structural Funds .

Since we are now in 1997, will the Commission say what stage has been reached with these territorial pacts for
employment ?

Answer given by Mrs Wulf-Mathies on behalf of the Commission

(3 March 1997 )

At 31 January 1997, 65 proposals for territorial employment pacts had been officially forwarded to the
Commission by the authorities of the Member States . The majority of these proposals comprise only the
indication of a territory : an area or sub-region in which it is envisaged to launch a pact . Under these
circumstances, the Commission is contacting the authorities in order to obtain additional information, in
particular regarding the identity of the promoters and the coordinator of each pact and the guidelines of its action
plan .

As soon as the pact promoters have been identified, negotiations can take place at bilateral meetings, in particular
on the grant of Community aid for technical assistance .

The Commission thus hopes to be able to provide a progress report to the European Council at Amsterdam
including the formalization of the majority of the pacts as well as the guidelines of their action plans .

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 1 69 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0164 / 97

by Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Commission

(3 February 1997 )

Subject : Innovation

The Commission has stated that Europe must act decisively in the area of innovation, which is as vital to the
Member States as to firms .

No C 217 / 1 14 I EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

To this end, it has set out 13 lines of action in its green paper on innovation . On the basis of this green paper and
the consultations held in the Member States, the Commission has given an undertaking to draw up a plan for
coordinated priority measures by the end of 1996 .

Since 1996 has now ended, will the Commission say whether it has kept its word and, if so, with what measures ?

Answer given by Mrs Cresson on behalf of the Commission

( 12 March 1997 )

The public debate launched by the green paper on innovation (') has largely confirmed the basic principles of the
Commission 's diagnosis of the reasons for the Community 's innovation deficit .

The Florence European Council requested the Commission to draw up a plan of action for the measures to be
undertaken in the field of innovation .

On 20 November 1996, the Commission adopted the first action plan for innovation in Europe ( 2 ), which includes
a limited number of priority actions to be launched at Community level and incorporates actions which are in
progress or which have been announced since the publication of the green paper and which were identified there
as vital for the process of innovation . The proposed measures seek to foster an innovation culture in the economy
and society, to establish a framework conducive to innovation and to link research and innovation more
effectively .

This innovation action plan has been transmitted for opinions to the Parliament and Council . Further to this, the
Commission will draw up a detailed implementation schedule . It will submit the corresponding legislative and
regulatory proposals to the Council, the Parliament, the Economic and social committee and the Committee of
the regions . It will report regularly to the European Council on the implementation of the action plan, including,
where necessary, proposals for any adjustments or additions which may prove necessary in the light of
developments or in view of the specific contexts in which the plan is applied .

(') COM(95)688 final .
( 2 ) COM(96)589 final .

( 97 / C 217 / 170 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0165 / 97

by Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Commission

(3 February 1997 )

Subject : Employment

The confidence pact for measures to promote employment in Europe, hailed at the tripartite conference on
growth and employment in Rome in 1996, requires the Commission to follow up its White Paper on Growth,
Competitiveness and Employment .

Will the Commission say, in particular :

1 . To what extent the commitments made have been met ?

2 . How much has been accomplished ?

3 . What has not worked ?

4 . What action is needed to make the strategy set out in the 1993 White Paper more effective ?

Answer given by Mr Flynn on behalf of the Commission

( 26 March 1997 )

The confidence pact for employment proposed by the Commission is underpinned by the White Paper on
Growth, Competitiveness and Employment, and by the cooperation process set in train after the Essen European
Council with a view to promoting a European strategy for employment . The social partners have expressed their
support for the proposed integrated approach, making their views known during the round-table discussions on
employment on 28 and 29 April 1996 and at the tripartite conference on 14 and 15 June 1996 .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 115

In the report which it submitted to the Dublin European Council, the Commission took stock of the positive
aspects of the pact for employment, then identified areas where further action is needed . The report stresses the
progress made in terms of macro-economic policies, harnessing the potential of the internal market, reforming
employment systems and utilising structural policies . It also points to the difficulties encountered, particularly as
regards the funding of trans-European networks and research .

( 97 / C 217 / 171 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0170 / 97

by Barbara Weiler ( PSE ) to the Commission

(3 February 1997 )

Subject : Environmental training in industry

On 3 May 1994 the European Parliament adopted a resolution on environmental training in industry
( A3-03 14 / 94 (')). This calls upon the Commission, among other points, to identify the relevant training needs of
the different sectors of industry while emphasizing the problems of small and medium-sized enterprises . It also
calls on the Commission to draw up a proposal along the lines of the resolution with the aim of having a
Community-wide training programme for environmental and working environment training operational ' by
mid     - 1996 '.

In view of the foregoing :

1 . Can the Commission provide an accurate estimate of training needs in the various sectors and branches of
industry ( possibly on the basis of the data compiled in connection with the Community eco        - management
and audit scheme ( Council Regulation ( EEC ) No 1836 / 93 ) ( 2 ))?

2 . When is the Commission proposal in question likely to be forthcoming, and what are the reasons for the
delay ?

3 . Does the Commission have any information concerning the current activities of the social partners, regional
training facilities, Cedefop, the Dublin Foundation and the European Environment Agency in Copenhagen in
the field of environmental training ?

4 . When does the Commission intend to submit proposals in line with Article 13(2 ) of Council Regulation
( EEC ) No 1836 / 93 ( to promote ' greater participation in the scheme by small and medium-sized enterprises,
in particular by providing information, training and structural and technical support ')?

(') OJ C 205, 25.7.1994, p . 76 .
( 2 ) OJ L 168, 10.7.1993, p . 1 .

Answer given by Mr Flynn on behalf of the Commission

( 26 March 1997 )

1 . The objective of the system set up by Regulation ( EEC ) No 1 836 / 93 allowing voluntary participation by
companies in the industrial sector in a Community eco-management and audit scheme is to promote continuous
improvements in the environmental performance of industrial activities . The system is not designed to provide
specific and precise data on environmental training needs in industry .

The tripartite Advisory Committee on Safety, Hygiene and Health Protection at Work, as part of the follow-up to
the Community programme concerning safety, hygiene and health at work ( 1996-2000 ) ('), is currently
considering training requirements in the field of occupational health and safety . Its opinion will provide a basis
for the future activities of the Commission . The Safety Actions for Europe ( SAFE ) programme, when
operational, could be used to finance training initiatives for small and medium-sized enterprises .

2 . Environmental training is one of the priority action areas adopted by the Commission in its proposal for a
Decision on the review of the Community programme of policy and action in relation to the environment and
sustainable development ( 2 ).

In this connection, a number of recent developments illustrate the desire to incorporate environmental aspects
into various Community initiatives .

No C 217 / 1 16 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

For example, an assessment of the projects adopted under the Leonardo da Vinci programme in 1996 shows that

10% are directly connected with the environment . In its seventh report on the Structural Funds, the Commission
for the first time identified a relatively large number of programmes financed by the European Social Fund ( ESF )
focusing on vocational training in relation to the environment . The Commission has made recommendations on
this subject to the monitoring committees associated with the Funds .

The Commission has also continued to support more specific environmental training measures, in particular

within the Life-Environment programme ( training projects for SMEs in the industrial sector, with the active
participation of unions and employers ). Since 1995, budget heading B4-304, which includes co-financing for
environmental education projects, has been extended to take in training projects in the field of vocational
teaching .

Finally, in 1996 the Commission established a specific working group on the subject of environmental training,
comprising representatives of the Member States . The objective of this working party is to improve cooperation
and exchanges between the Commission and Member States and to contribute to the implementation of a
coherent and consolidated strategy in this field .

3 . The Commission is continuing to support and monitor with great interest projects run by the European
Centre for the Development of Vocational Training ( CEDEFOP ) and the Dublin Foundation in the field of
environment-related vocational training, in particular Dublin Foundation project No 0206 ' Education and
training for sustainable development ' and CEDEFOP project No 140096 ' Changing occupations, new
occupations and the development of occupational skills and qualifications in the field of environmental

'
protection .

The Commission is aware of certain activities of the social partners concerning environmental training, in the
context of the activities of the Dublin Foundation .

4 . Article 13 of Regulation ( EEC ) No 1836 / 93 requires the Commission to ' present appropriate proposals to
the Council aiming at greater participation in the scheme by small and medium-sized enterprises, in particular by
providing information, training and structural and technical support, and concerning auditing and verification
procedures '.

With a view to collecting data on the real needs of SMEs in the context of Regulation ( EEC ) No 1836 / 93, an
invitation to tender, aimed primarily at SMEs, was published in September 1993 . Projects had to pursue one of
the following objectives : preparation of implementation of Regulation ( EEC ) No 1836 / 93 through pilot
demonstration measures ; provision of information for businesses and national and local authorises on the

system ; training of workers responsible for environmental matters in businesses and for professionals
responsible for auditing and validation . The results of these projects were analysed by a European coordinator,
thus allowing the problems encountered by SMEs in connection with Regulation ( EEC ) No 1836 / 93 to be
identified more precisely, together with the approaches giving the best results .

This first stage involved a second call for tenders in March 1996, which referred explicitly to the aforementioned
Article 13 . The idea was to develop efficient means of providing technical assistance for SMEs with a view to
their participation in Regulation ( EEC ) No 1836 / 93 . The five projects being financed as a result of this call for
tenders are just starting .

The Commission 's preoccupation as regards participation by SMEs in activities pursuant to Regulation ( EEC )
No 1836 / 93 is therefore clearly in evidence . Further proof is the fact that a large proportion of SMEs have already
registered under EMAS ( Community eco-management and audit scheme ).

These various projects could certainly constitute an interesting foundation for the development of an
environmental training policy for industrial SMEs .

(') COM(95)282 fina ].
( 2 ) OJ C 140, 11.5.1996 .

( 97 / C 217 / 172 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0171 / 97

by Mark Killilea ( UPE ) to the Commission

(3 February 1997 )

Subject : EU financial assistance to animal rights organizations

The proliferation of animal welfare organizations in the European Union is a fact . While the goals of such groups

are totally legitimate, there is a growing concern that some organizations flying the animal welfare flag are in

17 . 7 . 97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 1 17

reality promoting the animal rights philosophy among our constituents, sometimes through very subliminal
slogans which make it difficult to distinguish animal welfare from animal rights goals . Many of these
organizations tend to present their activities under the conservation label . However, it is widely known that the
groups want to prevent the use of any animal species .

This issue was highlighted in Montreal, Canada, last October on the occasion of the IUCN-World Conservation
congress, where one of these organizations, named IFAW, was rejected from membership by the huge majority
of governments and NGOs on the grounds that its objectives were not compatible with IUCN 's mission, this is ' to
ensure that where the earth 's natural resources are used, this is done in a wise, equitable and sustainable way '.
According to press reports, some animal rights organizations are under investigation for promoting radical ideas
on the non-use of animals and raising funds without being legally registered .

In the light of the above, could the Commission give assurances that, in the framework of the ' Community
Action Programme promoting non-governmental organizations primarily active in the field of environmental
protection ', no financial assistance will be provided to animal rights and / or pseudo-animal welfare organizations
which do not believe in the conservation of natural resources as universally agreed, but seek to prevent the legal
use of any animal, in particular wild species, even if its use is humane and sustainable ?

Answer given by Mrs Bjerregaard on behalf of the Commission

( 13 March 1997 )

As the Honourable Member will be aware, the proposal (') for a Community action programme promoting
non-governmental organisations ( NGOs ) primarily active in the field of environmental protection is currently
under discussion at Council level .

This programme would only provide funding of those activities of European NGOs which contribute to the
development and implementation of Community policy and legislation .

(') COM(95)573, amended by COM(97)28 .

( 97 / C 217 / 173 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0173 / 97

by Anita Pollack ( PSE ) to the Commission

(3 February 1997 )

Subject : Statistics on use of animals in experiments

Is the progress described by Mrs Bjerregaard in the answer to Written Question E-0547 / 96 (') in collecting
improved statistics on the use of animals in experiments being maintained ? In particular :

1 . Is the definitive set of tables accompanied by an explanatory glossary of terms which were said to be agreed,
still going to be implemented ?

2 . Will the Commission still be requesting all Member States to fill in these agreed tables in 1997 with data
from 1996 ?

(') OJ C 280, 25.9.1996, p . 38 .

Answer given by Mrs Bjerregaard on behalf of the Commission

( 12 March 1997 )

The answer to question 0547 / 96 to which the Honourable Member refers describes the Commission 's efforts to
collect and publish statistics on the use of animals for experimental purposes in the Community, but also the
problems encountered in this connection .

No c 217 / 1 18 ΓΕΝ Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

The Commission has prepared a draft set of statistical tables in consultation with numerous experts . This draft
was presented to the authorities of the Member States in September 1996 but was not accepted . In particular,
these authorities wanted the tables to be simplified and stressed that they should be kept as similar as possible to
the statistical tables accepted in the framework of the Council of Europe Convention for the Protection of
Vertebrate Animals . The Commission is currently continuing its efforts to secure the adoption of a harmonized
format for statistics on the use of animals for experimental purposes .

As regards, in particular, statistics relating to cosmetic products, as provided for in Article 4(2)(i ) of Council
Directive 76 / 768 / EEC of 27 July 1976 on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to
cosmetic products (') as amended by Council Directive 93 / 35 / EEC of 14 June 1993 ( 2 ), the Member States have
several times been asked to supply them . The data received so far are incomplete and another reminder is to be

sent .

(') OJ L 262, 27.9.1976 .
O OJ L 151, 23.6.1993 .

( 97 / C 217 / 174 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0180 / 97

by Roberta Angelilli ( NI ) and Spalato Bellere ( NI ) to the Commission

(3 February 1997 )

Subject : Infringement of free competition on the Italian market in third party motor vehicle insurance

On 8 June 1994, in decision No 2024, the Italian Monopolies Commission, chaired by Giuliano Amato, which
upholds the market and competition, imposed a fine of some LIT 20 billion on 1 1 leading Italian insurance
companies for infringement of the laws on competition . The Monopolies Commission established that the main
companies had reached an understanding for the purpose of setting premiums and other policy terms for the
years from 1990 to 1993 .

The companies concerned made up 68% of the Italian market, thus constituting an illegal cartel .

Last year, under measure No 4129 of 29 July 1996, the Monopolies Commission opened an inquiry into the
specific sector of third party motor vehicle insurance, which in Italy, as in the rest of the Union, accounts for a
substantial portion of the insurance market . It believed that there was a possibility that competition in the sector
was being obstructed, curbed, or distorted .

Can the Commission confirm the report that the appropriate Community institutions have begun a similar inquiry
into the lack of transparency in the insurance sector in some Member States, including Italy, Belgium, and
Luxembourg ? If the report is true, can it provide further information about the inquiry ?

Answer given by Mr Van Miert on behalf of the Commission

( 10 March 1997 )

The Commission would inform the Honourable Members that no inquiry has been instituted under the
Community competition rules into third-party motor vehicle insurance . In the event of a complaint being lodged,
consideration could, of course, be given to initiating such a procedure . The Commission is though drafting a
communication on the concept of general interest and the freedom to supply services in the insurance sector,
including third-party motor vehicle insurance .

The work currently being carried out in this connection within the Commission is not designed to deal with the
anti-competitive behaviour reported in the motor vehicle insurance field ; it is confined to the aspects relating to
application in the insurance field of the principles of freedom to supply services and freedom of establishment —
and of the restrictions imposed on those principles by national general-interest rules — as interpreted by the Court
of Justice .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 2 17 / 119

( 97 / C 217 / 175 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0181 / 97

by Spalato Bellere ( NI ) to the Commission

(3 February 19*7 )

Subject : Derailment of a high-speed train on the Milan to Rome line

A high-speed train ran off the rails near Piacenza Station, in Italy .

There is speculation that the track, the rolling-stock, and the electronic speed regulation systems had been poorly
maintained .

Does the Commission not believe that, in addition to the steps already being taken in Italy, it should open an
inquiry — to prevent the whole incident from being classed as human error and thus laid to rest — and reiterate the
criteria to be observed, not least where shift work is concerned ?

Answer given by Mr Kinnock on behalf of the Commission

( 14 March 1997 )

The Commission attaches the greatest importance to maintaining the very high level of safety that is usual in rail
transport, and safety is, of course, a major objective of the common Transport Policy .

The Commission considers that it is essential that new forms of rail transport, like high speed trains, are at least as
safe as conventional rail . It was therefore very concerned to hear of the tragic accident near Piacenza station .

The Commission understands that the Italian authorities and the Ferrovie dello Stato are enquiring into the cause
of the accident and awaits their conclusions with great interest . Legal responsibility for the safe operation of the
railways remains with the authorities of Member States and, because the Commission does not have such
statutory obligations or powers, it would not be appropriate for the Commission to conduct its own enquiry into
the Piacenza accident .

Working time issues are, however, a responsibility of the Community, and in the near future the Commission will
be proposing a White Paper on working hours in the sectors not covered by the 1993 Directive on working time,
including the transport sector . Actions by the Commission in rail transport would be strongly influenced by the
agreement in the Joint Committee on rail transport which brings together trade unions and employers .

( 97 / C 217 / 176 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0183 / 97

by Magda Aelvoet ( V ) to the Commission

(5 February 1997 )

Subject : Land consolidation schemes in Antwerp province

The Flemish Regional Council is currently drawing up plans for the Weelde, Zondereigen and Merksplas land
consolidation projects in the north-east of the province of Antwerp . Both the Weelde and the Zondereigen
projects will cover a large part of the areas to the north of Turnhout and Ravels which fall under the wild birds
diredctive . The Merksplas project adjoins for a large stretch, and is partly within, the main part of the Turnhout
fen district . Furthermore, some of the plots of land to which the land consolidation relates are covered by the
habitats directive . In Spring 1 996 the Flemish Executive submitted to the Commission the designation of forty
areas, including some of the plots covered by the land consolidation . A large-scale drainage scheme is planned
for the Weelde and Merksplas areas . Nature conservationists have informed me that the of the area ( abiotic ) will
be changed irrevocably as a result and that this will destroy the ecological features .

Is the Commission aware of these plans ?

Is the Commission of the opinion that such projects, which take very little account, if any, of nature, can be
carried out on the perimeter, or in the immediate vicinity, of an area protected under the wild birds directive and
the natural habitats directive ?

No C 217 / 120 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17.7.97

Do not these projects contravene Article 4 of directive 79 / 409 / EEC (') on the conservation of wild birds and
Article 6 of directive 92 / 43 / EEC ( 2 ) on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora, in that
they will have a direct or indirect adverse effect on ecological features ?

0 ) OJ L 103, 25.4.1979, p . 1 .
( 2 ) OJ L 206, 22.7.1992, p . 7 .

( 97 / C 217 / 177 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0184 / 97

by Magda Aelvoet ( V ) to the Commission

(5 February 1997 )

Subject : Land consolidation schemes in Antwerp province

The Flemish Regional Council is currently drawing up plans for the Weelde, Zondereigen and Merksplas land
consolidation projects in the north-east of the province of Antwerp . Both the Weelde and the Zondereigen
projects will cover a large part of the areas to the north of Turnhout and Ravels which fall under the wild birds
diredctive . The Merksplas project adjoins for a large stretch, and is partly within, the main part of the Turnhout
fen district . Furthermore, some of the plots of land to which the land consolidation relates are covered by the
habitats directive . In Spring 1 996 the Flemish Executive submitted to the Commission the designation of forty
areas, including some of the plots covered by the land consolidation . A large-scale drainage scheme is planned
for the Weelde and Merksplas areas . Nature conservationists have informed me that the nature of the area
( abiotic ) will be changed irrevocably as a result and that this will destroy the ecological features .

In accordance with Article 6(3 ) of the habitats directive 92 / 43 / EEC ('), any project not directly necessary to the
management of special areas of conservation but likely to have a significant effect on the site is subject to
appropriate assessment .

In the case in question environmental impact reports were used to examine the suitability of the land
consolidation schemes . The reports showed that the analysis of the consequences of the land consolidation on the
ecosystem was inadequate and incomplete .

Does this mean violation of Article 6(3 ) of the directive ? Is the Flemish legislation not in contravention of the
provisions of that directive since it does not expressly state that environmental impact reports must be used to
examine and analyse the impact of the land consolidation on the conservation area ?

(') OJ L 206, 22.7.1992, p . 7 .

( 97 / C 217 / 178 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0185 / 97

by Magda Aelvoet ( V ) to the Commission

(5 February 1997 )

Subject : Land consolidation schemes in Antwerp province

The Flemish Regional Council is currently drawing up plans for the Weelde, Zondereigen and Merksplas land
consolidation projects in the north-east of the province of Antwerp . Both the Weelde and the Zondereigen
projects will cover a large part of the areas to the north of Turnhout and Ravels which fall under the wild birds
diredctive . The Merksplas project adjoins for a large stretch, and is partly within, the main part of the Turnhout
fen district . Furthermore, some of the plots of land to which the land consolidation relates are covered by the
habitats directive . In Spring 1996 the Flemish Executive submitted to the Commission the designation of forty
areas, including some of the plots covered by the land consolidation . A large-scale drainage scheme is planned
for the Weelde and Merksplas areas . Nature conservationists have informed me that the nature of the area
( abiotic ) will be changed irrevocably as a result and that this will destroy the ecological features .

In Spring 1996 the Flemish Regional Executive submitted the designation of 40 areas for approval to the
European Commission pursuant to the habitats directive 92 / 43 / EEC (')• Some of the plots involved in the land
consolidation schemes fall within these defined areas . Given the fact that these areas have already been
designated, is there any point in declaring the land consolidation projects suitable ?

(') OJ L 206, 22.7.1992, p . 7 .

( 97 / C 217 / 179 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0186 / 97

by Magda Aelvoet ( V ) to the Commission

(5 February 1997 )

Subject : Land consolidation schemes in Antwerp province

The Flemish Regional Council is currently drawing up plans for the Weelde, Zondereigen and Merksplas land
consolidation projects in the north-east of the province of Antwerp . Both the Weelde and the Zondereigen
projects will cover a large part of the areas to the north of Turnhout and Ravels which fall under the wild

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 2 17 / 21

birds diredctive . The Merksplas project adjoins for a large stretch, and is partly within, the main part of the
Turnhout fen district . Furthermore, some of the plots of land to which the land consolidation relates are covered
by the habitats directive . In Spring 1996 the Flemish Executive submitted to the Commission the designation of
forty areas, including some of the plots covered by the land consolidation . A large-scale drainage scheme is
planned for the Weelde and Merksplas areas . Nature conservationists have informed me that the nature of the
area ( abiotic ) will be changed irrevocably as a result and that this will destroy the ecological features .

In accordance with Article 75 of the Law of 22 July 1970 on land consolidation of properties pursuant to the law,
the plots used for land use measures within the agricultural area, may not account for more than 2% of the total
area of the plots prior to consolidation ..

Is this not in contravention of the objectives of the wild birds directive 79 / 409 / EEC (') and the natural habitats
directive 92 / 43 / EEC ( 2 ), now that agricultural interests clearly take precedence over the ecological features,
despite designation as a wild birds and natural habitats area ?

(') OJ L 103, 25.4.1979, p . 1 .
( 2 ) OJ L 206, 22.7.1992, p . 7 .

Joint answer

to Written Questions E-0183 / 97, E-0184 / 97, E-0185 / 97 and E-0186 / 97

given by Mrs Bjerregaard on behalf of the Commission

( 13 March 1997 )

Since it is unaware of these projects the Commission has requested information from the Belgian authorities and
drawn their attention to the obligations arising from Articles 4 and 6, respectively, of Directives 79 / 409 / EEC and
92 / 43 / EEC on the conservation of wild birds and fauna and flora ('), and on natural habitats ( 2 ). Once the
information requested has arrived, the Commission will assess whether the particular conditions under which the
land-consolidation projects at issue are to be carried out, or indeed are likely adversely to affect species or
habitats that are protected under Community law .

In the absence of such information the Commission is unable to inform the Honourable Member whether the

projects at issue run counter to the obligations arising from Community environmental law . In any case the
Commission cannot state a view on the suitability of carrying out land consolidation operations, since such a
matter falls within the purview of the Member States . In such situations the Commission 's role is solely to ensure
that when such operations are carried out the relevant Community rules are observed .

As regards Article 75 of the Belgian law of 22 July 1970 on the consolidation of rural properties the Commission
does not see in what way this provision would in principle run counter to the aims of Directive 79 / 409 / EEC . The
Commission feels that as a function of the specific impact of a land-consolidation operation on species and
habitats that are protected under Community law, it would be appropriate to assess, on a case by case basis,
whether the rule referred to in the above article is likely, or otherwise, to conflict with Community law .

(') OJ L 103, 25.4.1979 .
( 2 ) OJ L 206, 22.7.1992 .

( 97 / C 217 / 1 80 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0187 / 97

by Wilmya Zimmermann ( PSE ) to the Commission

(5 February 1997 )

Subject : Use of Commission funds to help export European jobs to India

Is the Commission aware that the Indian organization NASSCOM ( the National Association of Software and
Service Companies, # 109, Ashok Hotel, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 1 10 021 ), which receives funding under the
ECIP programme, forwards the addresses of German software producers and consumers to Indian software
companies, which then offer their substantially cheaper services in Germany, with the result that jobs — eg of
computer scientists — are lost here ?

No C 217 / 122 PEN Official Journal of the European Communities 17.7 . 97

Does the Commission agree that an association supported from European public funds should not be helping to
destroy jobs in Europe ?

Could the Commission set out its aims in providing NASSCOM with financial support ?

Could the Commission state what action it intends to take to stop NASSCOM continuing this practice, which
jeopardises European jobs ?

Answer given by Mr Marin on behalf of the Commission

( 13 March 1997 )

The Commission is well aware of this programme and has been following this matter carefully . NASSCOM is an
Indian industry association representing computer software and service companies . It has carried out a
programme in liaison with European software industry associations with the purpose of creating joint ventures
and business associations . 272 companies took part in the action, and 18 business partnerships have resulted .
These business partnerships are of a significant benefit to the Community companies in the development of their
international marketing programmes . Furthermore, these partnerships specifically promote the acceptance and
the use of European software engineering tools, methodologies and standards within the Indian market, rather
than non-European standards . As a result the programme is of significant benefit to the Community .

The Commission provided a 50% cofinancing ( ECU 96 000 ) from the European Community investment partners
( ECIP ) financial instrument to the specific workprogramme carried out by NASSCOM with European
entrepreneurs to promote Indian business partnership . The Commission has not provided general support for
NASSCOM ' s national activities .

The Commission has also provided support to the software services support and education centre in Bangalore
India, a joint initiative to promote European software tools, standards and technologies in India .

The budget financing for NASSCOM was provided under facility 1 of the ECIP financial instrument which
promotes the creation of joint ventures between Community business operators and those in the eligible
developing economies of Asia, Latin America, the Mediterranean and South Africa . Council Regulation ( EC )
No 213 / 96 (') provides that projects selected by the Commission should contribute to the development of the
eligible country concerned and must also present mutual benefit to the Community, which is the case here . In
approving this application the Commission was acting in pursuance of the objectives of the ECIP Regulation, and
was mindful of the fact that the country concerned, India, is a lesser developed country . The Commission has not
found evidence that this has reduced employment levels in the Community . On the contrary, the action has
contributed in a modest way to reinforcing the position of the Community software industry and standards
worldwide and in India .

(') OJ L 28 . 6.2.1996 .

( 97 / C 217 / 181 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0188 / 97

by Mihail Papayannakis ( GUE / NGL ) to the Commission

(5 February 1997 )

Subject : Measures to clean up the river Kifisos

The recent rainfall ( on 12 January 1997 ) in Greece has shown that the River Kifosis is still in a very poor state,
despite the presidential decree issued two years ago to protect it . The most damaged part of the river is that
passing through the run-down urban districts of Peristeri, Aegaleo, Rendi, Moschato, Neo Faliron and the region
of Elaiona before it discharges itself into the heavily polluted Saronic Gulf . The last stretch of the River Kifisos,
notably in the municipalities of Rendi, Moschato and Neo Faliron which is some 9 km long has become a vast
open waste tip in which rubbish is thrown and liquid waste is discharged through illegal conduits from factories
and cottage industries .

Since, according to allegations brought by the Attica Ecology Campaign :

( a ) all kinds of waste and rubble are thrown into the river bed without any controls ;

( b ) the public woodlands along the riverbanks are steadily being eroded by illegal construction work in its most

protection zone ;

17 . 7 . 97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 123

( c ) solid and liquid waste are discharged into the river, polluting both the river and the sea where they end up ;

( d ) plans are afoot to build over the last stretch of the River Kifisos and construct a speedway, which would cut

off Athens ' last source of fresh air and also greatly increase noise levels and pollution from car exhaust
fumes ;

( e ) these developments constitute a violation of both Greek and Community legislation,

Will the Commission say :

1 . whether it intends to make representations to the relevant Greek authorities to respect Community legislation
and to put an end to these violations ?

2 . whether it is in principle in favour of drawing up a study comprising a coherent plan for the integrated, rather
than fragmentary, management of the River Kifisos, so as to avoid disasters in future, and

3 . whether it intends to finance a balanced investment plan aimed at cleaning up and deepening the bed of the
River Kifisos, and ridding it of all the waste and effluent which is currently being discharged into it ?

Answer given by Mrs Bierregaard on behalf of the Commission

( 14 March 1997 )

1 . The Commission has already written to the Greek authorities regarding pollution of the river Kiphisos and
the implementation of Community legislation, as a follow-up to Parliamentary petition No . 237 / 96 .

2 . and 3 . The Commission will examine any proposals relating to improvement of the state of the river
Kiphisos which the Greek authorities submit under existing programmes, but it is up to them to take the first step .

( 97 / C 217 / 182 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0194 / 97

by Nuala Ahern ( V ) to the Commission

(5 February 1997 )

Subject : Safety inspections

With regard to the reports of corrosion of canisters containing high-level vitrified liquid waste and resultant
leaks, shipped from France to Japan in April 1995, has the Nuclear Safety Inspectorate investigated this reported
incident, what were the findings of such an investigation and, what investigation has been undertaken to examine
the waste manufacturing process by COGEMA and the physical composition of the canister used ?

Answer given by Mrs Bjerregaard on behalf of the Commission

(7 March 1997 )

The Commission has no specific powers of inspection relevant to the external contamination found on waste
canisters subsequent to their shipment from France to Japan in 1995 . In terms of its general authority as guardian
of the treaties, the Commission has no role since the contamination was not a risk to health and indeed only
became a problem because of severe contractual limits combined with a lack of intercalibration of
measurements, which difficulty has now been resolved between the contracting parties, France and Japan .

Vitrification — which incorporates the radioactive wastes in a solid, very stable matrix — is widely accepted as
the preferred option for dealing with such wastes . Cogema is a world leader in the industrial application of
vitrification technology .

No C 217 / 124 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

While the composition of the canister is under the technical responsibility of the operator of the plants and the
national safety authorities, the Commission is, through research and development programmes, well informed
about safety related issues like the selection of materials . The material normally used for the canisters in which
vitrified waste is stored is a low carbon ( 0.08% ) high chromium ( 22% ) steel . Extensive testing has shown no
susceptibility to leaking by pitting corrosion or stress corrosion cracking, even under extreme conditions of
storage, as regards attack either of the inner face by the contents or of the outer face by the external environment .

( 97 / C 217 / 183 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0196 / 97

by Glenys Kinnock ( PSE ) to the Commission

(5 February 1997 )

Subject : Commission policies on child labour in India

Is the Commission aware that several observers — including a senior adviser to the Canadian Government — have
been given a very positive assessment of the present certification and inspection system of Rugmark ? Is the
Commission aware that Robert B. Reich, Secretary of Labour of the USA declared in Geneva at the ILO
Ministerial meeting on Child Labour, 12 June 1966 : ' We are now exploring other initiatives to enlist consumer
support . For example, a voluntary labelling scheme has now emerged for hand-knotted carpets, called Rugmark .
This system has gained wide attention in the United States, and I am exploring this further with regard to other
products .'?

What is the comment of the Commission on these assessments ?

Answer given by Mr Marin on behalf of the Commission

( 25 February 1997 )

The Commission would refer the Honourable Member to its answer to Written Question E-31 / 97 by Mrs
Aelvoet (').

(') OJ C 138, 5.5.1997, p . 180 .

( 97 / C 217 / 184 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0202 / 97

by Gianni Tamino ( V ) to the Commission

(5 February 1997 )

Subject : Support for cultural initiatives in prisons

Volterra, Italy 's, theatre and prison experiment is recognized as being valid from both the artistic and social point
of view, involving prisoners as it does in the company . Because of an isolated escape attempt the experiment was
suspended in December and was recently authorized again by the Italian authorities .

Have cultural initiatives within and without the Italian prison system received contributions from Community
programmes or funds or been patronized by EU institutions ?

Will the Comission consider assessing the possibility of also granting funding for the artistic sector to such forms
of social reintegration ?

If cultural initiatives in Italian prisons have received Community funding or the patronage of EU institutions
does the Commission not consider it should approach the Italian authorities to prevent them from being
suspended ?

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 125

Answer given by Mr Oreja on behalf of the Commission

( 26 March 1997 )

The Commission has granted support to a project entitled Tea-rooms and prisons in Europe ', proposed in 1994
by the Italian association ' TICVIN Tea-room ', as part of its measures to encourage contemporary cultural
creation under the Kaleidoscope programme .

The Commission would state that no category of actors or cultural operators is automatically excluded from its
cultural action programmes Kaleidoscope ( contemporary cultural creation — already adopted and operational ),
Ariane ( books and reading — being adopted ) and Raphael ( cultural heritage — being adopted ).

Projects proposing cultural activities in prisons could therefore be eligible for financial support from the
Commission, provided they meet the criteria for cultural programmes and measures specified in the calls for
proposals published in the Official Journal each year . They must, for instance, follow an integrated
interdisciplinary approach and have a European dimension, which means they must be the fruit of active
cooperation between partners from at least three countries including two Member States . Depending on the
measures or programmes, they must also reflect the work themes set each year .

( 97 / C 217 / 185 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0208 / 97

by Jens-Peter Bonde ( I-EDN ) to the Commission

(5 February 1997 )

Subject : Exemptions from satellite surveillance of fisheries

Why will Dutch beam trawlers and English and Scottish herring vessels be exempt from satellite surveillance in
the first phase and what is the Commission 's reaction to a letter from Mr Bent Rulle, chairman of the Danish
Fishery Association, to the Folketing in which he describes the compromise proposal as a ' game ' in which one of
the key elements is the exemption of problem fisheries in the countries that go in for satellite surveillance ?

Answer given by Mrs Bonino on behalf of the Commission

(5 March 1997 )

No later than 1 January 2000 all Community vessels exceeding 20 metres between perpendiculars or 24 metres
overall length wherever they operate, except those making trips of less than one day or operating exclusively
within the 12 miles zone, will be subject to satellite-based monitoring . There are no exemptions for certain types
of vessels or gear such as referred to by the Honourable Member .

Certain sensitive fisheries ( vessels operating on the high seas, except in the Mediterranean Sea, vessels operating
in the waters of third countries and vessels catching fish for reduction to meal and oil ) will be covered by the
satellite-based vessel monitoring system ( VMS ) already as from 30 June 1998 .

The decision to introduce a satellite-based monitoring system for Community fishing vessels is a major step
towards improved fisheries enforcement from which the whole fishing industry will benefit in the first place .

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 1 86 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0211 / 97

by Glyn Ford ( PSE ) to the Commission

(5 February 1997 )

Subject : Scientific Committee for Food

Referring to the minutes of the 103rd meeting of the Scientific Committee for Food ( III / 5693 / 96-EN ) item 14
which indicates ' immediate implementation ' of declaration of members ' interests, can the Commission say when
the declarations will be available for public scrutiny, where they are published and how one may access them ?

No C 217 / 126 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

Answer given by by Mr Bangemann on behalf of the Commission

( 12 March 1997 )

Commission Decision 95 / 273 / EC of 6 July 95 relating to the institution of a scientific committee for food (')
requires members to declare during meetings any interests which may be liable to prejudice their independence .

The committee agreed at its 103rd plenary meeting in September 1996, to implement declarations on the basis of
a document prepared by the Commission which included a proposal that the annual declarations would be made
available for public inspection at the Commission 's offices and may be published at the discretion of the
Commission .

Since September 1996, the requirement for declarations of interest at meetings of the committee and its working
groups has been implemented, any such declarations being recorded in the minutes of the plenary meeting .

Practical arrangements for defining the format of the annual declarations and the way they should be made
available are under consideration .

(') OJ L 167, 18.7.1995 .

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 1 87 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0212 / 97

by Glyn Ford ( PSE ) to the Commission

(5 February 1997 )

Subject : Firework safety

In view of the growing incidence of accidents involving fireworks from outside the European Union, what can
the Commission do to regulate or stop public availability of such hazardous products ?

Answer given by Mr Bangemann on behalf of the Commission

( 13 March 1997 )

The Commission is very concerned about firework accidents .

The Honourable Member is certainly aware that local customs on the public use of fireworks differ among the
Member States and influence the number and gravity of accidents . The differences in public attitudes to
fireworks extend to the times of the year when fireworks are most demanded, their characteristics ( visual and
sound effects ) and the way in which children and young people approach these products .

According to available information, all Member States enforce safety regulations on fireworks which fit the local
customs . After a careful examination of the safety problems at stake, the Commission reached the conclusion that
a directive on fireworks would not be a more effective solution to prevent accidents than these national safety
regulations . These regulations should not cause unjustified barriers to intra-Community trade, in accordance with
Articles 30-36 of the EC Treaty .

Fireworks originating in a third country should have their safety controlled before they can be marketed in any of
the Member States . In the event that safety controls have been omitted, the product would not be considered as
having been legally marketed, and would therefore not be entitled to circulate freely within the Community .

Although not specifically intended to regulate fireworks, Directive 92 / 59 / EEC on general product safety (')
contains provisions which may guide national authorities on the adoption of measures aimed at the prevention of
accidents related to consumer products .

Prevention and information campaigns by national or local authorities can also play an effective role in
diminishing the number of accidents . There is evidence that the number of injuries tends to diminish when such a
campaign precedes a period when fireworks are especially demanded ( e.g. new year celebrations ).

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 127

The Commission will continue to assess, together with national authorities, the need for a Community measure
on fireworks .

(') OJ L 228 of 11.8.1992 .

( 97 / C 217 / 188 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0215 / 97

by Michl Ebner ( PPE ) to the Council

(6 February 1997 )

Subject : Office of the three Alpine regions — the autonomous province of Bolzano, Trento and the Tyrol — in

Brussels

The chapter on extreme right-wing political subversion ( pp . 30-33 ) of the 1995 annual report to Parliament on the
activities of the police forces, public law and order and security on national territory ( Article 1 13 of law No 121
of 1 April 1981 ) of the Italian republic states that close attention is still being paid to the most extremist fringes
influenced by transalpine anti-Italian organizations that have opened an office of ' Euregio ' (a draft agreement
between representatives of the north-east Tyrol, south Tyrol and the province of Trento in order to create the

' European region of the Tyrol ') in Brussels .

The office was opened by the Chambers of Commerce of Bolzano and Trento and the Land of Tyrol, Austria, as a
service centre in Brussels in 1995 and not by extremist fringes, along the lines of some 150 other offices in
Brussels that represent regions, Lander and towns of Europe .

Can the Council inform the Italian Ministry for the Interior that other Italian Chambers of Commerce and regions
have offices in Brussels based on an existing Italian law ?

Will the Council not set up an ad hoc office to inform the media and private individuals as appropriate of all the
nationalistic and anti-European press outpourings of state, provincial and local bodies and other associations ?

Answer

( 18 April 1997 )

As the Council indicated in a previous reply ('), it has no knowledge of the matter referred to by the Honourable
Member .

In any event, it would be the responsibility of the competent authorities of the Member States concerned to check
that the activities of the offices referred to by the Honourable Member complied with current legislation .

(') QE 3106 / 95, OJ C 122, 25.4.1996 .

( 97 / C 217 / 189 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0216 / 97

by Michl Ebner ( PPE ) to the Commission

(5 February 1997 )

Subject : Office of the three Alpine regions — the autonomous province of Bolzano, Trento and the Tyrol — in

Brussels

The chapter on extreme right-wing political subversion ( pp . 30-33 ) of the 1995 annual report to Parliament on the
activities of the police forces, public law and order and security on national territory ( Article 1 13 of law No 121
of 1 April 1981 ) of the Italian republic states that close attention is still being paid to the most extremist fringes
influenced by transalpine anti-Italian organizations that have opened an office of ' Euregio ' (a draft agreement
between representative sof the north-east Tyrol, south Tyrol and the province of Trento in order to create the

' European region of the Tyrol ') in Brussels .

No C 217 / 128 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17.7.97

The office was opened by the Chambers of Commerce of Bolzano and Trento and the Land of Tyrol, Austria, as a

service centre in Brussels in 1995 and not by extremist fringes, along the lines of some 150 other offices in
Brussels that represent regions, Lander and towns of Europe .

Can the Commission inform the Italian Ministry for the Interior that other Italian Chambers of Commerce and
regions have offices in Brussels based on an existing Italian law ?

Will the Commission not set up an ad hoc office to inform the media and private individuals as appropriate of all
the nationalistic and anti-European press outpourings of state, provincial and local bodies and other associations ?

Answer given by Mrs Wulf-Mathies on behalf of the Commission

( 13 March 1997 )

The Commission, when responding to previous questions in this vein ('), has already several times stated its deep
conviction that cross-border cooperation between local authorities and the organization of joint economic, social
and cultural activities represent a fundamental advance in the construction of a genuine Community and a
People 's Europe and encourage the success of initiatives for the structural development of these border
communities and areas .

However, the Treaty does not give the Commission the authority to judge the advisability, the form or the
organizational structure of any individual or grouped regional representation in Brussels .

On the other hand, the Commission is insistent that operations under the Interreg initiative should be
programmed and managed jointly by the local authorities on either side of the border concerned . In this way it
hopes to encourage the development of these areas and to help spread a culture of mutual confidence .

(') E-3 107 / 95 ( OJ C 91, 27.3.1996 ) and E-640 / 96 ( OJ C 305, 15.10.1996 ).

( 97 / C 217 / 190 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0218 / 97

by Honorio Novo ( GUE / NGL ) to the Commission

(3 February 1997 )

Subject : Amendment of Regulation 3030 / 93

To the best of my knowledge, the meeting of the College of Commissioners last week adopted the text amending
Regulation 3030 / 93 (') concerning agreements on texts .

Regulation 3030 / 93 was only adopted after Parliament, as is normal, had returned its opinion . However, I learn
that this time the Commission decided not to consult Parliament on the amendments it was making to Regulation
3030 / 93, a decision for which I can find no basis and which therefore strikes me as very odd .

Would the Commission therefore give me an exhaustive list of its reasons for proposing to amend Regulation

                           - 3030 / 93 and inform me of the substantive and legal reasons on the basis whereof the Commission decided not to

consult the European Parliament on the amendments it has adopted to Regulation 3030 / 93 ?

(') OJ L 275, 8.11.1993, p . 1 .

17.7.97 I EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 129

Answer given by Sir Leon Brittan on behalf of the Commission

(5 March 1997 )

Council Regulation ( EEC ) No 3030 / 93, as last amended by Commission Regulation ( EC ) No 152 / 97 ('), lays
down common rules for imports of certain textile products from third countries which are members of the World
Trade Organization or with which the Community has bilateral agreements, protocols or other arrangements .

In the light of experience in implementing the Regulation the Commission has put to the Council a proposal ( 2 )
for a number of amendments to streamline the text and clarify some of the rules on the administration of the
import regime . Apart from some purely editorial changes and the removal of two annexes which are substantially
declaratory in content, the aim of the proposal is to clarify the rules for exercising the Commission 's powers of
administration in two respects in particular .

Article 8 of the Regulation provides that the Commission may, in certain circumstances, and after the Textiles
Committee has delivered a favourable opinion, authorize the importation of additional quantities, i.e. over and
above the agreed quantitative limits . The new wording of the Article will make explicit the ability — hitherto
implicit — to make the granting of additional import facilities for a given category of textiles, origin and quota
year subject to certain conditions, in particular the deduction of corresponding quantities of products with the
same origin in other categories in the same year or in the same category in the following year .

At present no exceptions are permitted to the rule fixing the time limit for submission of an export licence to the
competent authority for the issue of an import licence ( 31 March in the year following the quota year ). Inability to
import the goods in consequence appears in certain circumstances to be disproportionate to failure to meet the
time limit . It is therefore proposed that the Commission be authorized, subject to the Textiles Committee 's
opinion, to grant a three months ' extension of the time limit in duly substantiated exceptional circumstances .

Since they are legislative texts in the field of common commercial policy both Regulation ( EEC ) No 3030 / 93 and
the proposed amendment to which the Honourable Member refers are based on Article 1 1 3 of the EC Treaty,
which does not require Parliament to be consulted . The Commission nevertheless sent Parliament a copy of its
proposal for information on 20 January 1997 .

(') OJ L 26, 29.1.1997 .
0 COMÍ96 703 final .

( 97 / C 217 / 191 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0220 / 97

by Klaus-Heiner Lehne ( PPE ) to the Commission

(5 February 1997 )

Subject : Promotion of tourism

Following the decision on the 1995 European Union budget, I should like to put the following questions to the
Commission :

Which European Union programmes serve to promote tourism ?

Do they include any that are specially targeted at small and medium-sized enterprises ?

To what extent are funds available to promote new media and Internet services that travel agents and relatively
small tour operators can take advantage of ?

How far are agricultural programmes, such as the Leader II Community initiative, or support from the Structural
Funds, suited to promoting rural tourism ?

Answer given by Mr Papoutsis on behalf of the Commission

(2 April 1997 )

The Honourable Member will be aware there are many financial instruments with a wide range of objectives
which can be called upon to assist tourism . This is why, in 1996, the Commission published the document

No C 217 / 130 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

entitled Tourism and the European Union : A Practical Guide, in order to facilitate access to information on the
subject . It provides an overall picture of specific financing to assist tourism as well as financing available under
other policies or programmes .

Small and medium-sized enterprises ( SMEs ) are given particular attention in view of their important contribution
to the development of tourism . For example, in the field of telematic services, the Commission launched a project
aimed at encouraging SMEs operating in the tourism sector and located in the least favoured regions to use the
Internet in order to facilitate the marketing of their activities . This project comes under the implementation of the
integrated programme and the Community initiative in favour of SMEs . It gave rise to the call for proposals for
the establishment of a European coordination structure .

Furthermore, the Community programmes on the information market, entitled Impact II and Info 2000
( multiannual Community programme to stimulate the development of a European multimedia content industry
and to encourage the use of multimedia content in the emerging information society ), enabled the selection of
projects on the tourism industry following calls for proposals . The ' Alto ' project is directed at, for example,
databases relating to information on local tourism .

Otherwise, Community aid may be granted to encourage the development of rural tourism and thus to contribute
to the aim of social and economic cohesion . In particular, this involves the financing granted by the Structural
Funds and the Community initiative entitled LEADER II concerning measures to develop the rural economy .
Under this initiative, aid for projects on rural tourism represents for example approximately ECU 700 million, i.e.
40% of the total amount allocated .

All in all, it is estimated that the resources assigned to the Structural Funds ' measures for the various forms of
tourism approach ECU 7 300 million . This accounts for approximately 5% of the total amount allocated to these
funds for the period 1994-1999 .

( 97 / C 217 / 1 92 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0221 / 97

by Christa KlaB ( PPE ) to the Commission

(5 February 1997 )

Subject : Legal authenticity of optically stored social security documents

Many EU citizens avail themselves of their right of free movement and work in various Member States of the
European Union during their careers . However, this welcome development continually encounters obstacles, for
example in the field of social security . Thanks to the coordinating Regulation on the social security of employed
persons, self-employed persons and their families ( 1408 / 71 / EEC (')), fundamental questions — particularly in the
pensions field — have also been settled at European level . However, in individual cases the use of new media can
call everyday acts into question . For example, in the social security field the question definitely arises whether
optically stored documents and reproductions of such documents are legally authentic, and in particular whether
and to what extent such images are accepted instead of the originals in the judicial systems of the Member States .
This has a particular impact in the area of the periods that have to be proved to qualify for pension entitlement as
well as the crediting of periods of insurance . In this context the following questions arise :

1 . Is the Commission aware of any measures at the national level in the Member States concerning the legal
authenticity of optically stored documents and reproductions of such documents in the field of social
security ? Is there perhaps already a legislative proposal at European level on the harmonization of provisions
in this area in the EU ?

Or, if not :

2 . Is there already a legislative proposal on the subject at European level ? Is the Commission aware of any
projects — in-house or by anyone outside the Commission — which have has their main theme a study of the
technical and legal aspects of this problem ?

(') OJ L 149, 5.7.1971, p . 2 .

17 . 7 . 97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 131

Answer given by Mr Flynn on behalf of the Commission

( 19 March 1997 )

The social security systems of the Member States are coordinated by Council Regulations ( EEC ) No 1408 / 71 and
574 / 72, amended and updated by Regulation ( EC ) No 1 18 / 97 (')• It must be noted, however, that these
regulations aim to coordinate but not to harmonise .

As far as the exchange of social security data between two or more Member States is concerned, the Commission
has recently proposed ( 2 ) to amend Regulation ( EEC ) No 1408 / 71 and to insert a new provision that seeks to
ensure that documents exchanged by electronic means are given the same status as paper documents .
Consequently, such documents may not be rejected on the grounds that they were received by electronic means,
provided the receiving institution has declared its ability to use telematic services . Of course, like paper
documents, a document received by electronic means may be rejected for other reasons . It is proposed to
introduce a further rule in respect of the burden of proof in cases where the correctness and quality of the
document received by electronic means is questioned .

In addition, appropriate security measures are to be taken in accordance with the relevant Community provisions .
These provisions are contained in Parliament and Council Directive No 95 / 46 / EC of 24 October 1995, on the
protection of individuals with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such
data ( 3 ), covering the various aspects of the processing of personal data referred to in this text, with particular
reference to questions of security in the event of telematic data transfer .

Finally, the Commission has recently launched a study ( 4 ) on the legal aspects of digital signatures . This study
should provide the Commission with a complete overview of policies, existing and envisaged rules and
regulations concerning digital signatures in Europe and in the Community 's main trading partners . The study
will help the Commission to analyse divergences between national regulatory frameworks for digital signatures
and any resulting potential regulatory barriers .

(') OJ L 28 . 30.1.1997 .
( 2 ) OJ C 341, 13.11.1996 .
( 3 ) OJ L 281, 23.11.1995 .
r ) OJ C 257, 4.9.1996 ; see also http :// www2.echo.lu / legal / en / digsigcall.html .

( 97 / C 217 / 193 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0222 / 97

by Nikitas Kaklamams ( UPE ) to the Commission

(5 February 1997 )

Subject : Delays in the passage of lorries across borders

According to articles in the Greek periodical ' TROCHOI KAI TIR ', lorries crossing the borders between the
countries of Central and Eastern Europe still face lengthy delays, a situation which increases transport costs and
frustrates drivers .

These delays fluctuate between 1     - 3 hours at the border between Bulgaria and Skopje ( Macedonia ) and up to
55 hours at some points on the Polish-German border .

Will the Commission say what action it has taken to resolve this problem which makes life so difficult for drivers
from EU countries, particularly drivers from Member States such as Greece, who also have to contend with long
distances and a restricted choice of alternative routes ?

Answer given by Mr Van den Broek on behalf of the Commission

( 13 March 1997 )

The Commission is aware of the problems raised by the Honourable Member . Eliminating delays at border
crossings is one of the major aims of the Community transport policy towards Central and Eastern Europe . Since

1992 the Commission has through the Phare transport programme, addressed these problems and particular
attention has been paid to the border crossings situated on the nine multimodal transport corridors identified by

No C 217 / 132 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

the second pan-European transport conference in Crete 1994 . Up to 1996 the Community has co-financed the
improvement of border crossings in the Phare countries with 9 1 MECU and the effects of the investments made
under the early programmes are starting to show . An additional 21 MECU is foreseen for the period 1997 to

1999 .

Delays at borders are not only caused by inadequate infrastructure but also by outdated customs procedures,
together with the fact that the border crossing posts in question are often understaffed with badly trained customs
officers . Financial support to infrastructure projects has been made conditional upon the availability of sufficient
well qualified and motivated staff from the recipient countries . The Commission has since 1993 under the Phare
customs programme given financial support to the introduction of basic customs legislation ( e.g. customs codes
and tariffs, the single administrative document, transit procedures ) together with training in these fields . It should
be emphasised, however, that it takes time to transform the customs services in the beneficiary countries into
modern customs administration capable of handling all matters related to customs clearance procedures in order
to implement trade and economic policies based on a market economy .

The Commission is aware that although the major border crossings on the German-Polish border have been
modernised there are still significant delays from time to time . These are in general due to lack of well trained
customs staff combined with an increase in traffic . The Commission has since 1994 under the cross border

co-operation programme set aside over 100 MECU to finance projects on the Polish side according to the wishes
of the Parliament and this matches similar funds made available under Community structural funds for the
German side . Since May 1995 regular meetings have taken place between the German and Polish authorities and
the Commission in order to monitor the situation and to agree on practical measures to alleviate border crossing
problems between the two countries .

( 97 / C 217 / 1 94 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0223 / 97

by Mark Watts ( PSE ) to the Commission

(5 February 1997 )

Subject : Road safety : regulations concerning speed limits

In view of the fact that transport safety is listed as one of the priority objectives laid down in the common
transport policy ( COM(92)494 ):

1 . What Community action has been taken in the field of regulations concerning speed limits ?

2 . What Community action has been taken, if any, regarding speed restrictions in rural areas of Member States ?

3 . Has the Commission investigated the link between road traffic accidents and speed restrictions in rural
areas ?

4 . Are there any funding opportunities for pilot projects concerned with speed restrictions on rural roads ?

Answer given by Mr Kinnock on behalf of the Commission

( 27 February 1997 )

The improvement of transport safety is a key priority ol the common transport policy . Consequently, in the near
future the Commission will submit a communication on road transport safety that evaluates the actions of the last
three years and presents a strategy for the coming years .

To date, Community legislation on speed restrictions relates only to the mandatory introduction of speed limiters
in heavy commercial vehicles and buses ( Directive 92 / 6 / EC on the installation and use of speed limitation
devices for certain categories of motor vehicles in the Community ) ('). In addition, in 1989 the Commission
proposed the harmonisation of speed limits for commercial vehicles ( 2 ) but the Council has not yet acted on that
proposal .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 133

Speed restrictions on rural roads are applied in all Member States but since the character of such roads obviously
varies, local authorities are best placed make judgements and to impose the appropriate speed limit . For the same
reason, a general assessment of the link between speed limits in rural areas and accidents is difficult .

Funding from the Community budget may be available if a pilot project offers a new development with scope for
Community    - wide application .

O OJ L 57, 2.3.1992 .
( 2 ) OJ C 33, 9.2.1989 ; amended propose OJ C 96, 12.4.1991 .

( 97 / C 217 / 195 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0224 / 97

by Mary Banotti ( PPE ) to the Commission

(5 February 1997 )

Subject : Regulation of conditional access and related technical services

Following the answer to my Written Question E-2941 / 96 ('), I should like to put the following supplementary
questions to the Commission :

To be made available to the public, GSM telephones must allow access to competing networks . Customers do not
have to buy several phones, or all use the same network to know that they can be reached . To be made available
to the public, digital television receivers do not have to allow access to competing networks — why is this not a
reasonable parallel and a cause for concern ?

The most successful and innovative consumer and industrial product of our time, the PC, uses common
architecture and common interfaces, and this is acknowledged to be the reason for its success and widespread
use . How is it that, as claimed by Mr Van Miert, the directive 's non-insistence on a common interface encourages
innovation ?

Press reports indicate that DVB receivers are being sold which at worst may not allow reception of free air
services as stipulated by the directive, and at best make it forbiddingly complex to find them . Even though the
directive has not yet been ratified by Member States should this situation not give cause for concern ?

(') OJ C 91, 20.3.1997, p . 52 .

Answer given by Mr Bangemann on behalf of the Commission

( 21 March 1997 )

Access to competing networks for digital television services is ensured by the combination of two provisions of
Directive 95 / 47 / EC of the Parliament and of the Council of 24 October 1 995 on the use of standards for the

transmission of television signals ('):

— the incorporation of a descrambler conforming to the common European scrambling system in all relevant
consumer equipment ( Article 4 a . 1st indent );

— the offer by conditional access providers of their services to broadcasters on fair and non-discriminatory
terms ( Article 4 c . 1st indent ).

The analogy with the personal computer market is not correct . In fact, the success of the personal computer as a
product is not the result of an agreed or mandated common architecture or interface, but of consumer choice and
preference . Competing personal computer architectures exist . Major families are built around an Intel ­
compatible chip with a Microsoft operating system ( the ' IBM compatible PC ', or a Motorola-compatible chip
with an Apple operating system ( Mac Intosh, called ' MAC '), and other often incompatible personal computers .
The persona ] computer market is indeed a good example of solution by the market for problems of
incompatibility with applications softwares offering some degree of compatibility across the two main
competing architectures .

No C 217 / 134 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 7.7 . 97

The Commission 's answer to the Honourable Member 's written question E-2941 / 96 stated that Directive
95 / 47 / EC does not require a common ( i.e. standard ) interface in order to encourage innovation and risk taking in
introducing the new technology for digital broadcasting services . To promote investment in decoder
development and production, the process of the introduction of digital television should, as far as possible, be
market-led . As already explained, some safeguards are incorporated in the Directive to ensure that the interests of
consumers are taken into account . As digital services develop, if competition concerns emerge which are not
covered by the Directive, the Community competition rules will be applied as appropriate .

Article 4 a, second indent of Directive 95 / 47 / EC requires that all consumer boxes be capable of showing
free-to-air broadcasting on the television . If any violation of this requirement occurs in practice in the market, it
should be brought to the attention, in the first instance, of the Member State authorities responsible for enforcing
compliance with the Directive .

(') OJ L 281, 23.1 1.1995 .

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 1 96 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0228 / 97

by Salvador Jove Peres ( GUE / NGL ) to the Commission

(3 February 1997 )

Subject : Community tariff quota for barley for malting falling within CN code 1 003 00

The Commission has put forward a proposal for a Council regulation ( COM(96)552 final ) opening a Community
tariff quota for barley for malting falling within CN code 1 003 00 in order to open a 30 000-tonne quota for barley
intended for the production of malt to be used for the manufacture of beer aged in tanks containing beechwood .

Apparently the production of malt to be used for the manufacture of beer aged in tanks containing beechwood is
affected by specific problems which the Council regulation is intended to resolve .

1 . Can the Commission describe the specific problems in question ?

2 . How many companies are there in the European Union which manufacture beer aged in tanks containing
beechwood ?

3 . Can the Commission provide a list of the companies which manufacture beer aged in tanks containing
beechwood in the European Union, together with details of their location ?

Answer given by M. Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 26 February 1997

Under the agreement on cereals and rice between the Community and the United States, in the context of the
conclusion of the General agreement on tariffs and trade ( GATT )

The United States has drawn attention to problems regarding consignments of barley for malting, which meets
specific quality criteria and which is destined for the production of certain beer aged in tanks containing
beechwood . The high price of such barley for malting has led to certain problems with the application of the
representative price for barley .

The proposed tariff rate quota is intended to remedy this problem . It would be open to any barley meeting the

specifications, including those concerning end use . The Commission does not have specific details of which
companies produce beer using this method .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 135

( 97 / C 217 / 197 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0235 / 97

by Glyn Ford ( PSE ) to the Council

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : Consultative Commission final report

Can the Council explain the reasons for not publishing the final report of the Consultative Commission on
Racism and Xenophobia which was finalized in May 1996, particularly as its publication was promised in the
Commission 's terms of reference ?

Does it not feel that it would be appropriate to do so in 1997, the European Year Against Racism, and could it
now be published under the logo of the European Year Against Racism ?

Answer

( 18 April 1997 )

The final report of the Consultative Commission ' Racism and Xenophobia ' has been published under the logo of
the 1997 European Year Against Racism . It was distributed at the Conference in The Hague on 30 and
31 January 1997, at which the European Year was inaugurated .

( 97 / C 217 / 198 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0236 / 97

by Kenneth Collins ( PSE ) to the Commission

(7 February 1997 )

Subject : Labelling of medicinal products

Is the Commission aware of the problem that colourings used in medicines authorized before Directive 92 / 27 (')
came into force may not always be identified on package labels and inserts ?

What measures does the Commission intend to introduce to protect patients who may be allergic to some
products used to colour medicines and which are not identified on the label and insert ?

(') OJ L 113, 30.4.1992, p . 8 .

Answer given by Mr Bangemann on behalf of the Commission

( 18 March 1997 )

According to Directive 92 / 27 / EEC on the labelling of medicinal products for human use and on package leaflets,
the user package leaflet of a medicinal product must state, in full, the active and inactive ingredients present in
the medicinal product . Therefore, any colouring would be stated in the leaflet .

In addition, according to the Directive, certain inactive ingredients must be stated on the label . The Commission
is currently preparing a guideline which lists the inactive ingredients to be stated on the label . This guideline will
include a corresponding leaflet warning for each of these excipients . Tartrazine and other azo colouring agents
feature in the current draft of this guideline .

The Directive applies to any new medicinal product from 1 January 1994 and is being progressively applied to
existing medicinal products at the time of renewal . This means that by 1 January 1999 the Directive will apply to
every medicinal product .

No C 217 / 136 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

( 97 / C 217 / 199 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0241 / 97

by Gastone Parigi ( NI ) and Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Commission

(7 February 1997 )

Subject : Request for deferred payment of milk quota fines

The establishment of quotas for Community milk production for the purposes of price support is a valid and
valuable system, provided that its organization does not create large-scale imbalances between production
potential and the internal consumption of the individual Member States . The fines imposed when milk quotas are
exceeded are objectively fair only if they are accompanied by a specific, direct and conscious sense of
responsibility regarding the infringement .

In Italy the exceeding of quotas by a substantial number of farmers was due not to deliberate fraud on their part
but to :

1 . the foolishness of an Italian minister who at the time and in the context of the Community was only
capable of negotiating a quota equivalent to little more than half Italy 's internal consumption, thereby
condemning Italy to being a net importer of milk, to the advantage of Germany, France and the
Netherlands, who obtained a quota far higher than their own consumption ;

2 . the contradictory nature of successive Italian laws which, combined with the notorious superficiality or,
what is worse, bad faith of the trade unions and workers ' organizations and the state of confusion which
has long prevailed in the public authorities in the sector, led many farmers astray, by encouraging them
on the one hand to produce more and more and, on the other, informing them of the quantitative
restrictions only when the quotas had been exceeded ; not only this, but also by creating and encouraging
the disgraceful trading of ' paper quotas ' and providing incentives for imports of milk at ridiculously low
prices and not actually of Community origin .

In view of this situation, will the Commission consider whether it would be appropriate not to waive the fines but
to extend the deadline for payment, provided that in the meantime the degree of responsibility shared by the
authorities and by the trade unions involved in the matter is established ?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

(5 March 1997 )

The Commission considers that when the quota system was adopted in Italy, producers were given several
opportunities to rectify the errors made when individual reference quantities were allocated, by taking the matter
either to the regional authorities or directly to AIMA ( Azienda di Stato per gli interventi nel mercato agricolo ),
without prejudice to their right to appeal to the courts .

With regard to the payment of the additional levy for the 1995 / 96 marketing year, it should be noted that the
Commission initiated an infringement procedure against Italy concerning the rules on calculating the levy owed
at the level of producer associations . Italy subsequently adopted Decree Law No 353 of 8 July 1996 and Decree
Law No 463 of 6 September 1996 suspending compensation at the level of associations of milk producers with
effect from the 1995 / 96 marketing year .

The Commission is aware that these changes with retroactive effect caused very serious administrative problems
which had direct effects on meeting the 1 September 1 996 deadline for payment by purchasers of the additional
levy . These problems do not alter the fact that purchasers are responsible for collecting the additional levy and
producers are responsible for paying it .

In conclusion, the Commission considers that an additional extension of the deadline for payment to the
European Agricultural Guidance and Guarantee Fund is not likely to solve the problem .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 137

( 97 / C 217 / 200 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0243 / 97

by Daniel Varela Suanzes-Carpegna ( PPE ) to the Commission

(3 February 1997 )

Subject : Freezing of aid for the fishing fleet pending approval of MAGP IV

In view of the announcement that the Commission is to freeze structural aid to the fishing fleet until MAGP IV is
adopted, what action is the Commission intending to take in order to ensure that the fishing fleets of the Member
States which have fulfilled the objectives of the current MAGP are not affected ?

Answer given by Mrs Bonino on behalf of the Commission

(3 March 1997 )

The third-generation multiannual guidance programme ( MAGP III ) expired on 31 December 1996 . At its
meeting of 20 December 1996, the Council was not able to adopt targets for the period from 1 January 1997 to
3 1 December 2002 for restructuring the Community fisheries sector .

The conclusions drawn by the Commission regarding this situation are as follows :

— Member States remain subject to the obligation to ensure that the fishing effort of their fleets does not exceed
the final objectives of MAGP III ; this obligation arises from Article 1 of Council Decision 94 / 15 / EC of
20 December 1993 relating to the objectives and detailed rules for restructuring the Community fisheries
sector over the period 1 January 1994 to 31 December 1996 with a view to achieving a lasting balance
between the resources and their exploitation (') and Article 5 of the EC Treaty ;

— the Community can no longer finance the measures provided for under Title II of Regulation ( EC )
No 3699 / 93 of 21 December 1993 laying down the criteria and arrangements regarding Community
structural assistance in the fisheries and aquaculture sector and the processing and marketing of its
products ( 2 ).

Consequently, the arrangements for part-financing the measures referred to in Articles 7 to 1 0 of Regulation ( EC )
No 3699 / 93 are suspended as from 1 January 1997 for all the Member States and for all the measures applied to
the fleet .

o OJ L 10, 14.1.1994, p . 20 .
( 2 ) OJ L 346, 31.12.1993, p . 1 .

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 20 1 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0249 / 97

by Damela Raschhofer ( NI ) to the Commission

(7 February 1997 )

Subject : Support funds from the agricultural budget

A European Commission report indicates that ECU 1 755 billion from the agricultural budget was not utilized
and therefore reverts to the EU Member States . In view of the fall in income suffered by Austrian farmers :

1 . What level of support funding from the EU agricultural budget was provided for Austria ?

2 . How much support funding was applied for by Austrian farmers ?

3 . How much support funding was refused and what were the main reasons for this refusal ?

4 . What level of support funding in total was paid out to Austrian farmers and what was the average sum per
farmer ?

5 . What proportion of the agricultural budget surplus has reverted to Austria ?

No C 217 / 138 Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7.97

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 13 March 1997 )

The Commission reminds the Honourable Member that the budget of the European Agricultural Guidance and
Guarantee Fund ( EAGGF ) is drawn up with reference to expenditure forecasts, for a given financial year, on the
basis of Community legislation . It is a budget for the Community as a whole and it is not established, either at the
level of forecasts or in its final presentation, on the basis of expenditure to be envisaged per Member State .

Consequently, the Commission cannot provide the answers to the specific questions raised by the Honourable
Member . However, it can be stated by way of information that in 1996 EAGGF expenditure of benefit to Austria
amounted to ECU 1 1 21 .2 million in respect of the Guarantee Section ( market and farm income support ) and to
ECU 122.6 million in respect of the Guidance Section ( structural aid ); these figures represent 3% of total
expenditure for these two sections, which ran to ECU 39 107.8 million and ECU 3 934.5 million respectively for
the Community of Fifteen . The fact that this 3% share is an average should be borne in mind . The share varies
enormously depending on the type of payment . For example, the ECU 544.7 million paid out for accompanying
measures means that Austria received close to 30% of EAGGF financing in this field .

As far as examination of individual applications of potential beneficiaries of such payments is concerned in order
to reject those not eligible and set the level of payments, this is a matter in most cases for the relevant paying
agencies of each Member State . The Commission therefore invites the Honourable Member to obtain
information from the Austrian paying agencies as to the precise number of recipients, the number of ineligible
applications and the reasons for ineligibility, as also the average aid per Austrian farmer . As regards the latter
point, it should be said that such an average is not very informative given the differences in structure and
production within agriculture .

Lastly, if expenditure remains below appropriations there is generally no ' reversion of funds ' to Member States
but normally a reduction in the call-rate on own resources which Member States are required to pay into the
Community budget . There was consequently no money returned to Austria in 1996 .

( 97 / C 217 / 202 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0250 / 97

by Felipe Camison Asensio ( PPE ) to the Commission

(3 February 1997 )

Subject : Rules to ensure free competition on the digital-television market

Under Directive 95 / 47 ('), which was adopted in October 1995, the governments of the Member States are
required to adopt the legal measures required to ensure free competition on the pay-television market, a task
which the Spanish Government has duly undertaken .

Does the Commission consider that such a decision is an appropriate one, in view of the fact that suitable rules
need to be drawn up sufficiently in advance of the introduction to the market of digital television services ?

Does it not also believe that the need to draw up suitable rules is further strengthened by the requirement to
include codes which ensures that all pay-service providers are able to supply their programmes to all consumers,
for which reason it is essential for regulations on the awarding of access technology licences to be established ?

How does the Commission intend to set about considering, from July of this year onwards, the terms and
conditions for the implementation of such rules and the extent of their development in each Member State, and
issuing a report on the matter ?

(') OJ L 281, 23.11.1995, p . 51 .

Answer given by Mr Bangemann on behalf of the Commission

( 12 March 1997 )

Directive 95 / 47 / EC of the Parliament and of the Council on the use of standards for the transmission of television

signals was adopted unanimously, on 24 October 1995, by the Council, having received a large majority in the
Parliament .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 139

The Directive requires the use of standardised transmission systems for digital television . In relation to
conditional access to digital pay television it also requires the incorporation of a descrambler conforming to the
common European scrambling system in all relevant consumer equipment, and that conditional access providers
offer their services to broadcasters on fair and non-discriminatory terms .

The Directive sets out the general principles which must be followed by Member States . It had to be implemented
by Member States, when the necessary detailed provisions should be set out before 23 August 1996 .

Against this background, the following answers are given to the Honourable Member 's questions .

(
Spain has to adopt legal measures to implement the Directive . It is clearly desirable that this be done sufficiently
in advance of the introduction to the market of digital television services . As stated above, this should have
occurred before 23 August 1996 .

The requirement to use the common scrambling systems and the requirement of fair reasonable and
non-discriminatory relations between conditional access providers and broadcasters, provide the basis for
ensuring that all pay-television service providers are able to supply their programme to all consumers .

Once the various national implementing measures have been communicated, the Commission will check that
these conform to the requirements of the Directive and will report to the Parliament, to the Council and to the
Economic and social committee .

( 97 / C 217 / 203 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0251 / 97

by Giovanni Burtone ( PPE ) to the Commission

(4 February 1997 )

Subject : Alarming situation of Italian milk producers

Italian milk producers are faced with an alarming situation caused by the ' milk quota ' allocated to Italy, which is
still totally out of step with actual production capacity and domestic needs . With a national consumption level of

15.5 million tonnes and a real production rate of more than 10.5 million tonnes, Italy has been allocated a quota
of only 9.9 million tonnes .

Despite determined efforts to rationalize the sector, of which the Council and Commission are well aware, it has
not been possible to keep real production within the quota limits . As a result, a superlevy is being imposed on the

15 000 producers who have failed to keep within the maximum quantities . However, most of these producers
cannot pay this fine without going bankrupt . The impact on the social fabric, the natural environment and, most
importantly, on the thousands of families depending on this work for their livelihood would be devastating .

The farmers concerned are extremely angry : they feel that they are being unfairly penalized as a result of the
unacceptable quota allocated to their country .

( a ) Does the Commission agree that, for the sake of fairness, the Italian milk quota should be raised by at least

600 000 tonnes, with retroactive effect from the 1 995 / 96 farming year ?

( b ) If this cannot be done retroactively, does the Commission not consider that the authorities responsible should

provide for support measures and special credit facilities to enable producers to cover the superlevy due in
respect of the 1 995 / 96 farming year ?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 17 February 1997 )

The Commission considers that the inspection missions carried out between 1992 and 1995 showed that the milk
quota system is being properly applied . At that time the Commission proposed to the Council a permanent
increase in the Italian quota of 900 000 tonnes . The additional levy to be paid by producers who exceed the quota
is a key element of the arrangements, acting as a deterrent to further production increases .

No C 217 / 140 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

Overall guaranteed quantities per Member State were fixed in 1 984 on the basis of the quantities produced in

1981, except for Italy and Ireland where 1983, which was more favourable to them, was taken as the reference
year . Moreover, in 1993 the Council decided to allocate an additional 900 000 tonnes to Italy . From then on
individual quantities were allocated to Italian producers taking the 1988 / 89 marketing year as the reference year,
corrected by the deliveries made during the 1991 / 92 marketing year in cases where these were higher . Because of
the rise in yield, this has given Italian producers considerable advantage .

With regard to the Honourable Member 's request, the Commission takes the view that market considerations
mean that any increase in the Italian quota without a corresponding decrease for the other Member States must be
ruled out . Indeed, an increase in the Italian quantity would result in an increase in the quantities of dairy products
put on the European market, which would be likely to cause increased intervention in butter and skimmed milk
powder . It might well also lead to additional disturbances on the cheese market .

If the Italian authorities decide to introduce national measures to improve the situation of the producers who have
to pay the additional levy, the Commission will examine the measures in question to judge their compatibility
with Community law .

In conclusion, as far as the basic issue is concerned, the question of the level of the Italian quota can only usefully
be discussed as part of an overall consideration of the whole milk and milk products policy .

( 97 / C 217 / 204 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0252 / 97

by Mihail Papayannakis ( GUE / NGL ) to the Commission

(7 February 1997 )

Subject : Restructuring of the Commission 's veterinary services

According to information received by the European Parliament, the Commission is undertaking a major
restructuring of its veterinary services : part of them will be attached to DG XXIV, while research activities
regarding BSE, for instance, will remain with DG XII .

Will the Commission say how it justifies these changes and whether it has taken steps to ensure that the potential
and competences of its various services are fully exploited and that services concerned with the same subject and
pursuing the same objectives, for example, combating BSE, are satisfactorily coordinated ?

Answer given by Mr Santer on behalf of the Commission

( 11 March 1997 )

Following the bovine spongiform encephalophathy ( BSE ) crisis in Europe, the Commission has recently decided
to re-organize its services in the fields of food and health . Improved organization in these fields will not only
assure the separation of the Commission 's legislative function from the management of its scientific committees
but also the separation of legislation from control, and will reinforce transparency as well as the dissemination of
information . The Commission decision largely follows demands from the Parliament, particularly those
presented recently in its committee of inquiry 's report on BSE . Also, this new organization will ensure that the
contributions of the individual services dealing with different aspects of the problem will be better coordinated,

so that the potential of the Commission as a whole will be best exploited . On the political level, coordination will
be strengthened by the establishment of a group of commissioners for health to be chaired by the President . He
outlined the new concept in detail in his presentations to the Parliament on 15 January and 18 February 1997 .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 141

( 97 / C 217 / 205 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0253 / 97

by Nikitas Kaklamanis ( UPE ) to the Commission

(7 February 1997 )

Subject : Environmental pollution caused by a quarry

In Aetidolakkos in the province of Apokoronos in the prefecture of Chania in Crete a quarry has been in
operation for a number a years, systematically violating Greek and European legislation covering this type of
undertaking .

In particular, the quarry is located 300 metres from the edge of the community of Machairon, at the base of the
local road and below the springs used by this community .

The quarry is damaging the environment of the Gorge of Aghios Nikolaos, and in particular the surface and
ground water, the microclimate and its outline .

Allegations have also been made concerning accidents, damage to monuments and homes, atmospheric pollution
and excessive noise levels .

Will the Commission say what action — if any — can be taken to close down this quarry, and whether it can ask
the Greek authorities for information on the circumstances under which they granted an operating licence to this
quarry ?

Answer given by Mrs Bjerregaard on behalf of the Commission

( 18 March 1997 )

There is no specific legislation at European level covering the operation of quarries .

Since the entry into force in July 1985 of Directive 85 / 337 / EEC on assessment of the effects of certain public and
private projects on the environment ('), this type of installation must, where the authorities consider it necessary
after an initial evaluation, undergo environmental impact assessment before going into operation . It is not clear
whether the quarry in question was already in operation before 1 988 or only afterwards . In any event, since,
according to the Honourable Member, it is operating in contravention primarily of Greek law, the Commission
feels that the first step must be to apply to the Greek courts for a formal opinion on the matter .

(') OJ L 175, 5.7.1985 .

( 97 / C 217 / 206 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0257 / 97

by Richard Howitt ( PSE ) to the Commission

(7 February 1997 )

Subject : Citizens ' access to the European Court of Justice

Is the Commission aware of difficulties faced by citizens in my constituency for whom withdrawal of legal aid by
the UK authorities may impede their opportunity to take a case as far as the European Court of Justice on points
of European law ?

What jurisdiction does the Commission have in this matter ?

Given that many citizens do not have the financial means to support such a legal case, how can the European
Union ensure full access to legal redress in the Court ?

Answer given by Mrs Gradin on behalf of the Commission

( 12 March 1997 )

The Commission would refer the Honourable Member to its answer to Written Question E-3524 / 96 by
Mrs De Esteban Martin (').

No C 217 / 142 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17.7 . 97

In addition the Commission would like to point out that both the Court of justice 's rules of procedure ( rule 76 and
additional rules 4 and 5 ) as well as the rules of procedure of the Court of first instance ( rules 94 and 97 ) ( 2 )
contain identical provisions for free legal aid under certain conditions . It is however, hard to imagine that anyone
who meets these conditions would take a matter to the Court of justice without first having legal aid under
national legislation ( which may then be extended to cover certain proceedings in the Court of justice ( 3 )).

(') OJ C 186, 18.6.1997, p . 105 .
( 2 ) OJ L 136, 30.5.1991 .
() see the English Case R. v. Marlborough Street Stipendiary Magistrate, ex parte Bouchereau 1977 3 All ER 365 ( Divisional Court of Queen 's
Bench, 17 January 1997 ); Case 30 / 77 of 27 October 1977, ECR pages 1-2000-20281 .

( 97 / C 217 / 207 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0260 / 97

by Richard Howitt ( PSE ) to the Commission

(7 February 1997 )

Subject : Follow-up to the zero tolerance campaign in Thurrock, UK

Will the Commission join me in congratulating the South Essex Rape and Incest Crisis Line which is currently
conducting a ' zero tolerance ' campaign in my constituency to raise awareness of male violence against women ?
What opportunity exists to contribute the results of the campaign to future European decision-making, and what
assistance under the women 's action programme or other sources could provide financial support to follow up
the results of this excellent local campaign ?

Answer given by Mrs Gradin on behalf of the Commission

( 12 March 1997 )

The Commission welcomes national or local initiatives designed to increase public awareness of the prevention
and combating of sexual violence in all its forms and is consequently very much in favour of the zero tolerance
campaign in Thurrock, South Essex, to which the Honourable Member refers .

The Commission would point out that in 1 997 Parliament created, on its own initiative, a new budget heading
B3-4109 to finance measures for combating violence against children, adolescents and women . The Commission
will therefore be able to use this heading, inter alia, to support preventive measures and pilot projects through
grants to NGOs and voluntary organizations which are pursuing these ends and which meet certain criteria, such
as a European dimension to the proposed initiatives .

( 97 / C 217 / 208 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0261 / 97

by Richard Howitt ( PSE ) to the Commission

(7 February 1997 )

Subject : Retraining of public sector workers under ADAPT and Objective 4 structural programmes

In relation to comments raised during a recent conference of public sector workers from the UNISON trade union
in the eastern region of the UK, can the Commission confirm that ' house rules ' exist against Commission
funding for retraining of public sector workers in EU structural fund programmes ?

Does the Commission not recognize that the public sector has been subject to financial pressure as great as the
private sector, and will it ensure future ADAPT and Objective 4 programmes are fully available for retraining of
public sector workers ?

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 143

Answer given by Mr Flynn on behalf of the Commission

( 21 March 1997 )

What is eligible for funding in programmes co-financed under the structural funds is set down in broad terms
under the regulations adopted by the Council on 20 July 1993 ('). How the regulations are interpreted in relation
to the specific situation in each Member State is a matter for negotiation between the Commission and the
national authorities .

In some Member States the training or retraining of public sector workers has been agreed for funding under
objective 4 and Adapt operational programmes under certain conditions . The Commission understands that the
operational programme for objective 4 in the United Kingdom will be presented later this year . The Adapt
programme for the United Kingdom has as its principal focus the training or retraining of management and
workers in enterprises employing 50 people or less or in agencies or organisations providing support to such
enterprises . Workers in the public sector are not a direct target group .

(') OJ L 193, 31.7.1993 .

( 97 /C 217 / 209 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0263 / 97

by Richard Howitt ( PSE ) to the Commission

(7 February 1997 )

Subject : Control of the international arms trade

Given the existing KONVER Community initiative for defence conversion, and joint procurement by several
Member States of defence equipment, what precise steps are planned by the Commission to contribute to
increased controls against arms sales by EU members to third countries ?

Answer given by Sir Leon Brittan on behalf of the Co mm ission

( 10 March 1997 )

In Europe national policies on arms exports have traditionally differed considerably . Furthermore, assessments
of the risk of exports to certain destinations, linked to foreign policy considerations, have traditionally been made
on a national basis . Member States have therefore considered that such issues fall within the remit of Article 223

EC Treaty .

National arms export policies and controls are currently examined within the common foreign and security
policy with a view to approximation of national practices . Progress has been achieved through the definition of
eight criteria for arms exports policies and their national interpretation .

In its communication on ' The challenges facing the European defence-related industry, a contribution for action
at European level ' (') the Commission supported a gradual approach . As a first step, a regular exchange of
information between Member States on arms exports ( such as type and quantity of exported material, destination,
end use ) should be pursued . Following this, attempts should be made to establish an operational system aimed at
eliminating the distortions between the various national treatments . The communication is presently being
discussed by the Council and the Parliament .

As regards the Community initiative Konver, it should be borne in mind that it is a special instrument of the
structural funds which contributes to the implementation of the Commission 's regional policy and is not intended
to support a particular industrial sector . Its purpose is to accelerate the diversification of economic activities in
regions dependent on the defence sector, inter alia by the conversion of economic activities linked to this sector

so as to render them less dependent on this sector and encourage the adjustment of commercially viable
businesses in all sectors of industrial activity .

O COMI96 ) 10 final .

No C 217 / 144 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

( 97 / C 217 / 210 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0264 / 97

by Richard Howitt ( PSE ) to the Commission

(7 February 1997 )

Subject : Training for prospective cooperative businesses in South Essex

Can the Commission state examples of which it is aware, or which it has supported, to assist training of
prospective cooperative businesses at the local level in the European Union ?

How can planned training from the Essex Cooperative Development Agency in my constituency make
transnational links with such examples, and what European financial support is available in this respect ?

Answer given by Mr Flynn on behalf of the Commission

( 25 March 1997 )

Assistance is provided to co-operative businesses through a variety of Community programmes . The principal
means of providing support for transnational co-operation in training under the structural funds is through the
Community initiatives Adapt and Employment .

Details of these two programmes are sent direct to the Honourable Member and to the Parliament 's Secretariat .
Information on how to apply for funding under these programmes in the United Kingdom is also provided in each

report .

Networks such as Aries exist, which may be of assistance to co-operative training organisations searching for
partners .

( 97 / C 217 / 211 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0266 / 97

by Bernie Malone ( PSE ) to the Commission

(7 February 1997 )

Subject : Discrimination against non-practising teachers by the Department of Education in Ireland

Is the Commission aware that non-practising teachers are being prevented from applying for the position of

' directors ' with the Development of Education Centre Network in Ireland, which is co-financed by the European
Social Fund, and that the department is also breaching the EU 's commitment to equal opportunities for all EU
citizens by discriminating against Irish and European citizens who are working in other EU Member States ?

What action does it intend to take to rectify this matter ?

Answer given by Mr Flynn on behalf of the Commission

(1 April 1997 )

The Commission has been informed about the recruitment criteria regarding the post of director with the
Development of education centre network which receives funding from the European social fund ( ESF ).

According to the information supplied to the Commission, the selection criteria for the post do not include any
discriminatory condition based directly or indirectly on nationality . Furthermore, the Commission does not
consider that the selection criteria for such posts, including the condition that applicants must be practising
teachers, are disproportionate or contrary to ESF objectives .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 145

{ 91 IC 217 / 21 2 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0267 / 97

by Carmen Fraga Estévez ( PPE ) to the Commission

(7 February 1997 )

Subject : Community rice imports

The Community rice sector is unable to withstand the impact of rice imports from third countries . During the last
marketing year, 212 000 tonnes of milled rice were imported and the figures for the first three months of this year
show a gradual increase . The current situation is that most of the Community 's rice production remains unsold .

Consequently, Community producers are calling for the safeguard clause to be applied, as already formally
requested by Italy .

Does the Commission not consider that the market conditions necessary for the application of the safeguard
clause now exist ?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 12 March 1997 )

The safeguard clause requested by Italy and Spain was introduced by Commission Regulation ( EC ) No 21 / 97 of

8 January 1997 introducing safeguard measures in respect of imports of rice originating in the overseas countries
and territories ('). Its purpose is to limit the volume of quantities imported of this origin with a view to reducing
the effects duty-free imports have on the marketing of indica type Community rice . The Regulation establishes a
maximum quantity of 42 650 tonnes of husked rice equivalent to be imported at zero duty until 30 April 1997 .

In order to take account of the natural disaster on the island of Montserrat, the Council replaced the Commission
Regulation and increased the overall quantity for Montserrat and for the Turks and Caicos Islands to 8 000 tonnes
( Regulation ( EC ) No 304 / 97 of 17 February 1997 ) ( 2 ).

(') OJ L 5, 9 . 1.1997 .
( 2 ) OJ L 51, 21 . 2.1997 .

( 97 / C 217 / 213 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0268 / 97

by Carmen Fraga Estevez ( PPE ) to the Commission

(7 February 1997 )

Subject : Management of rice quotas

With reference to the quotas negotiated under Article XXIV.6 of GATT and allocated to the United States, will
the Commission say which body is responsible for managing the US quota and whether the transparency of the
management procedures can be guaranteed ?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

(4 March 1997 )

Council Regulation ( EC ) No 1522 / 96 of 24 July 1996 opening and providing for the administration of certain
tariff quotas for imports of rice and broken rice (') stipulates that rice imports from the United States will
commence only when the current negotiations are finalized . Since these negotiations have not yet been
concluded the imports from this origin provided for by the above-mentioned Regulation have therefore not yet
started .

O OJ L 190, 31.7.1996 .

No C 217 / 146 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

( 97 / C 217 / 214 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0270 / 97

by Carmen Fraga Estévez ( PPE ) to the Commission

(7 February 1997 )

Subject : Community rice exports

The restrictions on subsidized exports imposed by GATT are clearly inadequate for the needs of the sector .
However, the quantities laid down and the funds available for the last marketing year were not fully used, as they
were not needed for the effective marketing of the product . If the 75 000 tonnes outstanding from last year were
added to the quantities laid down for the current year, this would ease the market situation considerably .

Will the Commission therefore say whether it considers that the outstanding 75 000 tonnes should be added to the
quotas available for the current year ?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

(4 March 1997 )

The Commission would refer the Honourable Member to its answer to Written Question E-0020 / 97 by
Mr Arias Canete (')•

(') See page 72 .

( 97 / C 217 / 215 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0272 / 97

by Carmen Fraga Estevez ( PPE ) to the Commission

(7 February 1997 )

Subject : Fresh and canned tuna from the ACP countries

With reference to the EU 's preferential trade arrangements for fresh and canned tuna from the ACP countries,
will the Commission give details of exports of these products to the EU and, in particular, France, for the period
from 1986 to 1995 ?

Answer given by Mr Pinheiro on behalf of the Commission

( 19 March 1997 )

The table sent direct to the Honourable Member and Parliament 's General Secretariat shows the value and weight
of canned tuna imports into the Community, and more specifically France, from the ACP countries since 1988 .

The table shows that tuna imports are increasing steadily, almost doubling in weight in the period 1988-95 .
France is the Community 's largest importer . In 1995 canned tuna imports from ACP countries accounted for 2%
of all ACP trade .

( 97 / C 217 / 21 6 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0276 / 97

by Daniel Varela Suanzes-Carpegna ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : Current situation of the EU fish canning industry

Will the Commission give details of the current situation of the EU fish canning industry ( current output,
production capacity, number of firms, number of jobs, etc )?

Will it give details of the restructuring operation under way in this industry in major producer countries such as
Italy, France, Portugal and Spain ?

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 147

What provisions is the Commission making for aid to this sector once the current arrangements for the period
from 1994 to 1999 expire ?

Answer given by Mrs Bonino on behalf of the Commission

( 13 March 1997 )

The Commission would refer the Honourable Member to its answer to Written Question E-3504 / 96 by
Mr Arias Canete (') and to his Written Question E-3987 / 96 ( 2 ).

(') OJ C 186, 18.6.1997, p . 98 .
( 2 ) OJ C 186, 18.6.1997, p . 154 .

( 97 / C 217 / 217 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0277 / 97

by Daniel Varela Suanzes-Carpegna ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : Marine biotoxins in fish and seafood

What measures will the Commission take to introduce new methods of analysis into Community legislation in
order to monitor the existence of marine biotoxins in fish and seafood ?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 27 February 1997 )

Article 1 1 of Council Directive 91 / 492 / EEC of 15 July 1991 laying down the health conditions for the production
and the placing on the market of live bivalve molluscs (') provides that the chapters of the Annex containing, in
particular, provisions on the control of marine biotoxins may be amended by the Council, acting by a qualified
majority on a proposal from the Commission .

However, Chapter V of the Annex to the Directive stipulates that when there is scientific evidence indicating the
need to introduce other health checks or to amend the parameters in this Chapter for the purpose of protecting
public health, such measures are to be adopted by the Commission in accordance with the Standing Veterinary
Committee procedure . When drawing up any proposals to introduce new methods of analysis into Community
legislation, the Commission receives scientific assistance from the Community reference laboratory for marine
biotoxins in Vigo, designated for this task by Council Decision 93 / 383 / EEC of 14 June 1993 on reference
laboratories for the monitoring of marine biotoxins ( 2 ).

(') OJ L 268, 24.9.1991 .
( 2 ) OJ L 166, 8.7.1993 .

( 97 / C 217 / 218 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0278 / 97

by Yvan Blot ( NI ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : Defence of tobacco growers in Alsace

In many regions tobacco helps keep farming communities employed . This is the case in Alsace, France 's second
tobacco producing region ; in the Bas-Rhin department alone, there are still 600 producers despite a reduction in
the number of farmers active in this sector .

Tobacco growers in Alsace have adjusted to the market and European legislation ( limitations on tar content ) by
diversifying their production and directing it towards varieties that are in greater demand, without however
exceeding their quotas .

No C 217 / 148 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17.7 . 97

What does the Commission, as guardian of the Treaties and of the principle of Community preference, intend to
do to avoid penalizing European tobacco growers, who only provide 30% of the sector 's needs ?

In the face of unfair competition from third countries which charge dumping-level prices, is the Commission
prepared to react by imposing quota restrictions, applying minimum import prices or using the protective clause
in the event of the Community market being disrupted, as is the case at present ?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 28 February 1997 )

The Commission can confirm that it is fully aware of the important role played by tobacco growing in the
economy and rural life of certain European regions . This aspect of tobacco growing is, moreover, a key part of
the report on the common organization of the market in raw tobacco presented by the Commission to Parliament
and the Council .

The Commission can also assure the Honourable Member that the conditions which must be met before a

safeguard clause can be invoked to protect the tobacco market do not, to its knowledge, exist today . Nor does the
Commission have plans to restrict trade with third countries under its international commitments .

( 97 / C 217 / 21 9 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0289 / 97

by Jose Pomes Ruiz ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : Evaluation reports

In my mail I have received the first page of an evaluation report on the distribution of the EU budget for
assistance to countries in need .

The report in question is an assessment of the aid given to Central America and was drawn up by the DG VIII
Evaluation Unit .

Could the Commission keep Parliament informed of such reports ?

Will the Commission also say whether other reports of this kind exist concerning developing countries ? If so,
which ?

Answer given by Mr Pinheiro on behalf of the Commission

(7 March 1997 )

The Honourable Member refers to the report on the evaluation of operations concerning credit lines,
micro-enterprises and small      - and medium-sized enterprises financed by the Community in Latin America .

This evaluation exercise was conducted in 1995-96 and covered operations throughout Latin America over a
ten-year period . The summary report is being sent direct to the Honourable Member and Parliament 's General

Secretariat .

There is another report of this kind ; it concerns the evaluation of credit lines and projects to assist small     - and
medium-sized enterprises in Africa . It too is being sent .

In the past three years, other areas of activity in Latin America, including rural development and land reform,
have been evaluated and there have been overall evaluations in Bolivia, Chile and Guatemala .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 149

( 97 / C 217 / 220 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0292 / 97

by Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : Fisheries

In the context of the common fisheries policy, Council Decision 89 / 63 1 / EEC (') allows the Community to
finance investments in fisheries surveillance activities by the Member States with effect from 1991 . At
31 December 1995, the expenditure recorded for such measures amounted to ECU 1 19 million .

The decision provides for the Community to contribute to certain enforcement expenditure for some Member
States where the scale of the enforcement task is unrelated to budgetary capacity or relative prosperity .

However, the Commission has not laid down any precise criteria for determining whiph Member States should
qualify for the Community contribution or to set the level of aid . It has systematically granted the maximum rate
of 50% even when the structures financed were not intended exclusively for fisheries monitoring . Nor has the
Commission undertaken a cost-benefit analysis of the proposed investments, especially for expensive items such
as aircraft .

In its annual decisions according the financial contribution, the Commission is required to take account of the use
made of contributions in previous years and the improvement in the Member States ' performance in fisheries
enforcement . This has not been done properly and in some Member States investment programmes have suffered
considerable delays or been partially abandoned .

In addition, the Commission has not officially monitored the question of whether adequate sanctions are actually
taken against vessels which have breached the rules .

What future measures will the Commission take to ensure effective controls as regards the supervision of fishery
activities, which in the past have not been sufficiently rigorous ?

( ! ) OJ L 364, 14.12.1989, p . 64 .

Answer given by Mrs Bonino on behalf of the Commission

(5 March 1997 )

The comments made by the Honourable Member are identical to those made by the Court of Auditors in Chapter
4 of its annual report for 1995 entitled ' Common policy on fisheries and the sea ' (').

The Honourable Member is therefore requested to refer to the Commission 's replies accompanying the report .

(') OJ C 340, 12.11.1996 .

( 97 / C 217 / 221 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0294 / 97

by Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : VAT revenue

Identifying infringements by the Member States of the common VAT system is important in ensuring that own
resources are protected and properly collected . As a general rule, therefore, all infringements should be the
subject of adequate checks to ensure that the own resources in question are immediately made available by the
Member States, while reserving the right to charge interest in the event of delays .

The effects of the abolition of frontiers from January 1993 have been examined by the Court of Auditors,
working together with a number of national supervisory bodies .

No C 217 / 150 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

Does the Commission believe that the fall of 5-6% in VAT revenue in 1993 — an occurrence which the available

data cannot fully explain — could be a result of increased tax evasion ?

Answer given by Mr Monti on behalf of the Commission

( 11 March 1997 )

In its replies to the observations on VAT own resources made by the Court of auditors in its annual report
concerning the financial year 1995 ('), the Commission noted that the actual VAT revenue for 1993 was broadly
in line with Member States ' expectations . These expectations were reduced in 1993 because account was taken of
a number of one-off effects on VAT revenues that were acknowledged in advance by the Member States . The
Commission also emphasized that the Court 's observation related only to 1993 and had no sustained impact on
revenues thereafter . If the potential loss of VAT revenues was not fully explained by these one-off effects, it was
clear that it had no lasting effect and therefore was not attributable to any inherent weakness in the transitional
regime .

The Honourable Member may refer to the Court of auditors report for more detailed information concerning the
replies of the Commission to the observations of the Court on the matters raised .

(') OJ C 340, 12.11.1996 .

( 97 / C 217 / 222 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0297 / 97

by Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : Feta cheese

Denmark is the main producer and exporter of feta cheese, which is made from cows ' milk . ( Its exports, mainly
to Iran, enjoyed refunds from the Community budget of approximately ECU 480 million over a five-year period
( 1989-1994 ).

In order to be eligible for the refunds, feta cheese must meet certain criteria which the Danish authorities are
required to check . For example, the refunds should not be paid if the cheese has an excessive water content or an
insufficient fat content .

The rate of error in the water or fat content recorded by the control system during the period June 1989 to June

1995 was a minimum of 3.3%, which means that some ECU 16 million of refunds have been paid unduly .

What steps does the Commission plan to take vis-a-vis the Danish authorities, which have made no attempt to
recover the refunds unduly paid for feta cheese ?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

(4 March 1997 )

The recent Court of Auditors report (') gave rise to an investigation into certain items of European Agricultural
Guidance and Guarantee Fund ( EAGGF ) expenditure, including spending on refunds for exports of feta charged
to the EAGGF .

In carrying out this survey, the Commission used a database set up by the Danish authorities, which contains
records of batches of feta not complying with the required quality standards . On the basis of this information, the
final use of those batches was investigated . Where they were exported, under Article 2 of Regulation ( EEC )
No 729 / 70 the export refund cannot charged to the EAGGF . This is being dealt with at present and should lead to
a financial correction which will be integrated into the decision on the EAGGF clearance of accounts for the 1 994
financial year .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 151

The Commission, in its dealings with the Danish authorities on this matter, did not encounter any negative
attitudes . Initially there was a problem because according to the Danish interpretation of the legislation, any
check carried out at a stage prior to the export procedure could not be cited as a basis for assessing eligibility for
refunds . Clarification of the definition ( 2 ) of what documents are to be included in retrospective administrative
checks led Denmark to the change its position on this matter .

Denmark has modified its national system for checking the quality of feta for export to Iran ( in application since

11 March 1996 ) designed to make it impossible to export feta which does not meet requirements . The new
checking procedure will be the subject of a detailed examination during a future inspection .

(') OJ C 340, 12.11.1996 .
(-) Article 1(2 ) of Council Regulation ( EEC ) No 4045 / 89 of 21 December 1989 on scrutiny by Member States of transactions forming part of
the system of financing by the Guarantee Section of the European Agricultural Guidance and Guarantee Fund and repealing Directive
77 / 435 / EEC         - OJ L 388, 30.12.1989, p 18 .

( 97 / C 217 / 223 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0299 / 97

by Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Co mm ission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : Rice-growing regions

In the last five years, the Court of Auditors has audited and reported upon the management of a number of
different common market organizations .

The Court has examined the follow-up to the observations it made in its annual reports on the financial years

1990 to 1992 in an effort to determine whether the Commission has improved the management and control of
various agricultural markets in line with the recommendations and observations made by the Court .

The Council also supported the Court of Auditors ' recommendation that a land register be established for
rice-growing areas . No progress has been made on this matter .

What deadlines will the Commission set and what measures will it take to ensure that the Member States

establish a land register for rice-growing regions ?

( 97 / C 217 / 224 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0348 / 97

by Jose Garcia-Margallo y Marfil ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : CMO for rice : register of cultivated areas

In its 1992 discharge recommendation the Council recognized the need to introduce land registers for areas
supporting rice cultivation in order to improve control procedures in respect of appropriations paid out under the
common market organization for rice .

In its 1992 discharge decision of 5 April 1995 ('), the European Parliament stressed the need for Member States
to have comprehensive land registers .

Nevertheless, the Court of Auditors ' annual report concerning the financial year 1995 notes that the Commission
has not yet responded to the Council 's request to set up a land register for areas supporting rice cultivation .

When will the Commission start the process of setting up such a register ?

O OJL 141, 24.6.1995, p . 51 .

Joint answer

to Written Questions E-0299 / 97 and E-0348 / 97
given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

(4 March 1997 )

Following the reform of the common organization of the market in rice, a maximum guaranteed area was
established for each producer Member State by Council Regulation ( EC ) No 3072 / 95 of 22 December 1995 on

No C 217 / 152 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7.97

the common organization of the market in rice (')• From the 1997 / 98 marketing year these areas, which are the
basis for the compensatory payment intended to offset the reduction in the intervention price, are included in the
integrated control system established by Council Regulation ( EEC ) No 3508 / 92 of 27 November 1992
establishing an integrated administration and control system for certain Community aid schemes ( 2 ) and
Commission Regulation ( EEC ) Np 3887 / 92 of 23 December 1992 laying down detailed rules for applying the
integrated administration and control system for certain Community aid schemes ( 3 ).

(') OJ L 329, 30.12.1995 .
( 2 ) OJ L 355, 5.12.1992 .
( 3 ) OJ L 391, 31.12.1992 .

( 97 / C 217 / 225 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0300 / 97

by Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : Cotton market

In the last five years, the Court of Auditors has audited and reported upon the management of a number of
different common market organizations .

The Court has examined the follow-up to the observations it made in its annual reports on the financial years

1990 to 1992 in an effort to determine whether the Commission has improved the management and control of
various agricultural markets in line with the recommendations and observations made by the Court .

With regard to the cotton market, the Council and Parliament endorsed the Court 's view that effective control
measures should be introduced .

Will the Commission say whether the control methods for the 1995-1996 marketing year in the cotton sector have
produced the expected results and avoided the recurrence of the serious abuses that occurred in previous years ?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

(4 March 1997 )

In March 1 995 the Commission, acting upon its undertaking ' to reflect on the specific problems of the cotton
sector in a spirit of fair management ', sent the Council a report on the operation of the aid system ('). On the basis
of this report, the Council decided to preserve the basic structure of the support arrangements, while making
certain adjustments to it from the 1995 / 96 marketing year, namely :

— stopping the aid scheme for small producers,

— altering the reduction mechanism to transfer responsibility from the Community to Member States,

— putting an end both to the limit on aid reductions ( cut-off ) and to the possibility of transferring part of the
reduction from one marketing year to another,

— providing for the use of certain control measures like those under the integrated administration and control
system ( IACS ),

— introducing a link relating the quantities of unginned cotton delivered to each ginner and ginned cotton
produced .

In addition to its work on this new Regulation, the Commission took part, from end of 1994, in a joint working
party ( Greece and the Commission ) the aim of which was, in particular, to improve control procedures in Greece .
In this connection, increasingly targeted measures for checking on the main parties concerned ( producers,
intermediaries and ginners ) have been introduced . Of the changes introduced by the Greek authorities to date, the
following main ones should be noted : %

— checks on stocks of unginned cotton held by producers,

— progressive harmonization of the system for identifying parcels sown to cotton with the integrated
administration and control system,

— an additional check on all the cotton parcels in certain communes,

— a check on the final destination of bales of ginned cotton,

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 153

— increased thoroughness in the inspection of ginning undertakings provided for in Council Regulation ( EEC )
No 4045 / 89 of 21 December 1989 on scrutiny by Member States of transactions forming part of the system
of financing by the Guarantee Section of the European Agricultural Guidance and Guarantee Fund and
repealing Directive 77 / 435 / EEC ( 2 ).

The implementation of such additional control measures has certainly helped to prevent the repetition of the
abuses to which the Honourable Member refers and which were pointed out by the Court of Auditors in its annual
report . The Report on the 1995 financial year ( 3 ) stresses some of the improvements in this area as referred to
above .

(') COM(95)35 .
( 2 ) OJL 388, 30.12.1989 .
(') OJ C 340, 12.11.1996 .

( 97 / C 217 / 226 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0301 / 97

by Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : PHARE and TACIS programmes

With regard to measures in favour of the countries of central and eastern Europe, the newly independent states
( former Soviet Union ) and Mongolia, the EU 's financial and technical cooperation is implemented mainly
through the PHARE and TACIS programmes, whose main aim is to help these countries to undertake the reforms
necessary to move towards a market economy .

In 1995, for the first time since 1990, the Commission began to make up the delay in concluding contracts .
However, the fact remains that, for the PHARE programme ( CCE ), launched at the end of 1989, financial
commitments in respect of which contracts had not yet been concluded amounted to ECU 970 million, while for
the TACIS programme ( NIS and Mongolia ), launched at the end of 1991, the figure was ECU 644 million at the
end of 1995 .

Both for PHARE and TACIS, the invitations to tender, which were entrusted by the Commission to consultants,
led to conflicts of interest in the awarding of public contracts .

What steps will the Commission take to end the conflicts of interest over invitations to tender relating to the
PHARE and TACIS programmes ?

Answer given by Mr Van den Broek on behalf of the Commission

( 13 March 1997 )

Both for Phare and Tacis, the terms of reference ( definition of the activities to be performed by the contractor ) are
often drafted by external experts in cooperation with the Commission 's project manager responsible for the
action . The latter ensures the quality and the impartiality of the expert 's work . Moreover, when the terms of
reference are drafted, the tenders for the project are not yet identified . Any conflict of interest is also avoided by
excluding the expert and his company from participating in the restricted tender for the award of the contract .

As far as Tacis is concerned, the Commission is assisted in implementing the administrative activities relating to
restricted tenders by an external contractor, usually named a procurement unit ( PU ). The role of the PU does not
raise any problem of conflict of interest since it is not involved in any decision taking . This remains the exclusive
preserve of the Commission . The PU is not involved in the approval of any short-list or in any of the other
decisions made during the procedure by the committee charged with the evaluation . In fact the PU only handles
basic administrative tasks such as the drafting of the minutes of the evaluation committee meetings .

No C 217 / 154 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

With regard to Phare, as the management of the tender procedure is decentralised, the programme management
units ( PMUs ), located in the relevant ministries of the beneficiary country, are responsible for the approval of the
short list and for the evaluation proceedings . External experts are usually employed, but only as technical
advisors . However, as they cannot be involved in the short listing procedure, any conflict of interest is avoided .
Furthermore, the participation of the external experts to the evaluation committee as voting members does not
create any problem as the majority of members are representatives of the relevant beneficiary institutions and the
PMUs ( the Community delegations participating as observers ).

The transparency of Phare tender procedures is also guaranteed by Article 118 of the financial regulations,
according to which all procurement opportunities have to be announced on the Internet before a tender is
launched . The results of each tender must be published in the official journal .

( 97 / C 217 / 227 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0305 / 97

by Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : Social Fund

According to the Court of Auditors ' annual report for the financial year 1995 ('), the controls undertaken by the
Court regarding measures to combat poverty and social exclusion reveal a lack of precise objectives, overall
cohesion and assessment with regard to most of the measures undertaken .

What are the possible legal and economic implications of the fact that the measures to combat poverty and social
exclusion were financed by the Commission without the Council having approved the continuation of these
programmes ?

(') OJ C 340, 12.11.1996 .

Answer given by Mr Flynn on behalf of the Commission

(2 April 1997 )

The Court of Auditors ' report for the 1995 financial year covered the budget heading B3-4103, and more
particularly the Poverty III programme spanning the period from 1989 to 1994 . Details of the evaluation of the
measures taken have been provided by the Commission in its reply to the Court . In this connection, the
Commission also explains how Poverty III has helped to lay the foundations of overall coherence, and it intends
to continue along this path by drawing up a report on all the Community activities associated with poverty and
social exclusion .

As regards the second part of the Honourable Member 's question, on budget heading B3-4103, the Commission
had at its disposal, in 1995 and 1996, appropriations which could be used outside the framework of the proposal
for the fourth programme, which was blocked by the Council, with due regard for the corresponding remarks as
adopted by the Parliament .

On 1 April 1996, however, the United Kingdom brought an action before the Court of Justice ( C    - 106 / 96 ),
contesting the legality of funding in 1995 charged to heading B3-4103 for projects in connection with the fight
against social exclusion . The judgment is expected at the end of 1997 .

On 10 July 1996, the United Kingdom brought a further action in relation to the same budget heading for 1996,
calling also for interim measures pending the final judgment . An order given by the President of the Court
indicated that the Commission is authorised to sign agreements for 1996, but it may not make payments until
after the date on which the judgment is delivered, and then only if it wins the case .

For 1997, no appropriation has been allocated to the budget heading in question .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 155

( 97 / C 217 / 228 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0308 / 97

by Niels Kofoed ( ELDR ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : Implementation of Council Directive 92 / 66 / EEC introducing Community measures for the control of

Newcastle disease

The Commission 's answer to Written Question P-3514 / 96 (') confirms that the rules on protection zones have
never been relaxed as provided for in Article 9(7 ) despite the fact that in Belgium they operate with a 500 metre
zone for smaller flocks .

Is the Commission aware that Article 9(7 ) is impracticable owing to the long periods of time involved ? In view of
this, will it state whether a proposal has been submitted to bring Council Directive 92 / 66 / EEC ( 2 ) into line with
Belgian practice and, if so, what it has done to accommodate such a request ?

(') OJ C 138, 5.5.1997, p . 72 .
( 2 ) OJ L 260, 5.9.1992, p . 1 .

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 12 March 1997 )

Directive 92 / 66 / EEC was due for implementation in the Member States just over three years ago . In this time the
Commission has not made any proposals to Council for its amendment .

As indicated in the Commission 's reply to the Honourable Member 's Written Question P-3514 / 96, amendments
to this Directive to take account of new scientific or epidemiological developments or other relevant factors are
not ruled out in the medium term but are not an immediate priority .

Any request to consider modifications to Article 9, paragraph 7 or indeed other provisions of the Directive will be
taken into account in the future when proposals are next drafted to amend this Directive .

( 97 / C 217 / 229 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0309 / 97

by Doris Pack ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : Development of the internal market in the construction sector

1 . What was the volume ( in absolute and percentage terms ) of cross-border trade within the Community in the
most important construction products ( building stones, bricks, cement, asphalt, roofing tiles, windows, doors,
roofs ) during the period 1992-1995 ?

2 . What has been the volume ( in absolute and percentage terms ) of cross-border contracts for planning
services ( architects and engineers ) within the Community since the entry into force of the services Directive ?

3 . What has been the volume ( in absolute and percentage terms ) of cross-border construction contracts within
the Community since the entry into force of the construction harmonization Directive of 18 July 1989 ?

Answer given by Mr de Silguy on behalf of the Commission

( 10 April 1997 )

1 . The Commission is sending a table containing the information requested directly to the Honourable
Member and to the Secretariat-General of the Parliament .

No C 217 / 156 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 7.7.97

2 . and 3 . The Honourable Member might like to refer to the Eurostat publication in English entitled
' International Trade in services E.U., 1985-1997 ' ( particularly code No 249 on construction services and code No
280 on architectural, engineering and other technical services ), copies of which have also been sent directly to
both the Honourable Member and the Parliament 's Secretariat-General . The French version entitled ' Echanges
Internationaux de services 1985-1994 ' will be published in April 1997 .

( 97 / C 217 / 230 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0310 / 97

by Alexandros Alavanos ( GUE / NGL ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : Increase in bogus pharmaceutical products on the world market

According to media reports based on documents and evidence supplied by the World Health Organization, and in
particular a document of October 1996, the period between 1994 and 1996 saw a sharp rise in allegations
concerning the circulation and marketing of pharmaceutical products from both developing and industrialized
countries, including EU Member States, the majority of these products are less effective than the genuine article
or have no effect whatsoever, and many of these products are life-saving drugs .

In view of the above, will the Commission say whether it is aware of this WHO information, whether it has
collaborated in this area with European producers, NGOs or national authorities and whether it intends to take
action under Article 129(2 ) and ( 3 ) of the TEU ?

Answer given by Mr Bangemann on behalf of the Commission

( 18 March 1997 )

The Commission would refer the Honourable Member to the reply it gave to his Oral Question H-48 / 97 during
question time at Parliament 's February 1997 part session (').

Taking account of the strict Community rules already applicable to the production and placing on the market of
pharmaceutical products, the Commission presently sees no necessity to start any particular action, except for the
measure already announced in its answer to his oral question ( information of Member States through the
pharmaceutical committee established by Council Decision 75 / 320 / EEC of 20 May 1975 setting up a
pharmaceutical committee ( 2 )).

( j ) Debates of the Parliament ( February 1997 ).
( 2 ) OJ L 147, 9.6.1975 .

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 23 1 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0314 / 97

by Michele Lindeperg ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : Commission initiatives on the right to asylum

On 4 March 1996 the Council adopted a common position on the harmonized definition of the term ' refugee ' in
Article 1 of the Geneva Convention ( 96 / 196 / JHA (')).

That common position recognizes persecution by third parties as within the scope of Geneva Convention only
when it is ' encouraged or permitted by the authorities ' .

This excludes from the scope of the Convention persons persecuted by non-State groups when the authorities are
powerless to restore law and order and guarantee the safety of their nationals . It is stated that '[ t]he persons
concerned may be eligible in any event for appropriate forms of protection under national law '.

However, those forms of protection vary considerably at present and manifestly do not, in practice, provide a
human solution for the persons concerned .

17 . 7 . 97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 157

However, the Council Resolution of 14 October 1996 laying down the priorities for cooperation in the field of
justice and home affairs ( 2 ) contains two priorities that could provide possible solutions :

— ' 4(b ) harmonization of national procedures for granting the right to asylum

— 4(g ) examination of forms of alternative protection ( de facto protection and humanitarian residence permit )' .

What progress has been made on these matters within the Commission ?

Within what sort of time-scale does the Commission expect to adopt an initiative on these issues ?

(') OJ L 63, 13.3.1996, p . 2 .
0 OJ C 319, 26.10.1996, p . 1 .

Answer given by Mrs Gradin on behalf of the Commission

( 12 March 1997 )

As the Commission has already explained in its reply to the Honourable Member 's written question E-7 16 / 96 ('),
the joint position of 4 March 1996 ( 2 ) is not to be interpreted as systematically excluding from the scope of the
convention people persecuted by third parties, whether or not the responsibility of the state authorities can be
established .

It is true that protection which is not based on the Geneva convention varies considerably in form from one
Member State to another . The experience of the crisis in the former Yugoslavia, in particular, has shown that
mass influx situations may lead to a range of different protection schemes within the Union . The Commission
therefore intends to submit to the Council and the Parliament a draft action on the temporary protection of
displaced persons in the near future .

With regard to the harmonisation of asylum procedures, the Commission intends to examine carefully how the
existing Council resolutions have been implemented by the Member States . The Commission will then consider
what further steps need to be taken .

The Commission does not intend, at this stage, to bring forward an initiative on the alternative forms of
individual protection mentioned under point 4(g ) of the Council Resolution to which the Honourable Member
refers .

(') OJ C 280, 25.9.1996 .
( 2 ) OJ L 63, 13.3.1996 .

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 232 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0345 / 97

by Eva Kjer Hansen ( ELDR ) to the Commission

(4 February 1997 )

Subject : Public access to documents of the Community institutions

Considering that the transparency of the decision-making procedure and the access to legislative documents that
it implies, represent essential rights of democracy, does the Commission :

1 . Consider satisfactory that this fundamental right of public access to information is treated as a purely internal
question of the organization of each institution ?

2 . Not consider it necessary to adopt a general rule containing the minimum conditions and the fundamental
principles of public access to documents ?

3 . Consider that the EU Treaty constitutes a sufficient base to allow the adoption of this rule or does the
Commission consider it necessary to introduce a new article explicitly devoted to the principle of
transparency and the right to information ?

Answer given by Mr Santer on behalf of the Commission

(7 March 1997 )

1 . The Commission attaches the greatest importance to transparency, as it brings Europe closer to its people .
On 23 October 1993, the Council, Parliament and the Commission signed an interinstitutional declaration on
democracy, transparency and subsidiarity .

No C 217 / 158 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17.7.97

2 . Among the measures taken to increase transparency of its work, the Commission would remind the
Honourable Member that on 8 February 1994 it adopted Decision 94 / 90 / ECSC, EC, Euratom on access to its
documents . (') This Decision, which implements a common code of conduct agreed by the Commission and the
Council on 6 December 1993, lays down the principle that the public should be given the widest possible access
to internal Commission documents, with the exception of those whose disclosure could be prejudicial to public
or private interests or to the confidentiality of its deliberations .

While this decision is an internal measure, it should be stressed that it lays down specific provisions which
guarantee that citizens ' requests will be dealt with as soon as possible, with a redress procedure in the event of an
unsatisfactory answer .

This initiative shows that the right of access by individuals to documents held by the Commission is gradually
being established .

In its judgment of 30 April 1996, ( 2 ) the Court of Justice held that, on the basis of their internal power to organize,
the institutions could take measures to deal with such requests for access and that these internal rules could
generate legal effects vis-a-vis third parties .

3 . The Commission feels that it is indispensable to develop its policy on openness in the future . This process
would be facilitated by including in the Treaty the appropriate provisions enshrining transparency as a general
principle, and establishing the right of access to the documents of the Community 's ( legislative ) institutions .

(') OJL 46, 18.2.1994 .
( 2 ) ( Case C-58 / 94 ).

( 97 / C 217 / 233 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0346 / 97

by John Tomlinson ( PSE ) to the Commission

(4 February 1997 )

Subject : Accidents suffered by non-resident citizens

The level of compensation for damages suffered as a result of accidents varies from Member State to Member
State, and the procedures involved vary greatly .

In order to ensure the proper functioning of the single market and a proper level of protection for citizens who are
the victims of accidents in a Member State other than their own, what proposals does the Commisson have to
harmonize the level of compensation for accidents throughout the EU and to ensure that the same basis of
calculation is used in each Member State ?

Answer given by Mr Monti on behalf of the Commission

(7 March 1997 )

The introduction of a compulsory system of insurance against civil liability that ensures both free movement
throughout the Community and compensation of the victims of road accidents has been one of the Commission 's
concerns ever since the adoption in 1972 of the First Motor Insurance Directive . (') That Directive made
insurance against civil liability in respect of the use of motor vehicles compulsory in all the countries that
belonged to the Community at the time .

The basic protection was extended and strengthened by the Second ( 2 ) and Third ( 3 ) Motor Insurance Directives .
The Second Directive determined the extent of the protection by requiring minimum levels of cover in all
Member States and specifying the persons that must be covered by compulsory civil liability insurance . The
Third Directive ensures that policies cover the entire territory of the Community, on the basis of a single
premium .

Nevertheless, as the Honourable Member points out, these Directives do not achieve total harmonization of the
level of compensation afforded to accident victims ; they bring about minimum harmonization which does not
include requirements as to the amount and method of compensation that must be complied with uniformly
throughout the Community . Member States are free to set the level of compensation afforded, on condition that
they observe the minimum levels laid down in the Second Motor Insurance Directive .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 159

In accordance with the Third Directive, the cover provided must be either that required by the Member State in
which the policy was taken out or that required by the Member State where the vehicle is normally based, if it is
higher . The compensation paid in each case is therefore calculated in accordance with whichever of the two sets
of national rules is more favourable .

The Commission considers that these rules ensure satisfactory protection of accident victims . While allowing
flexibility, they are in keeping with the principles of minimum harmonization and subsidiarity and make
allowance for Member States ' different traditions regarding the level of compensation and the methods of
assessing injury or damage .

The Commission is indeed extremely anxious to see the Community rules on insurance against civil liability

strengthened as regards the compensation of victims of traffic accidents occurring outside their home
Member State . Following the resolution on the settlement of claims arising from traffic accidents occurring
outside the claimant 's country of origin ( 4 ) adopted by Parliament on 26 October 1995 under Article 138b of the
EC Treaty, the Commission is currently working on a proposal for a directive aimed at improving the situation of
persons who suffer injury or loss caused by a vehicle registered and insured in a Member State other than their
country of residence while visiting another Member State . The proposal will probably be presented to Parliament
and the Council during the second half of this year .

(') Council Directive 72 / 166 / EEC of 24 April 1972 on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to insurance against civil
liability in respect of the use of motor vehicles and to the enforcement of the obligation to insure against such liability ( OJ L 103, 2.5.1972 ).
( 2 ) Second Council Directive 84 / 5 / EEC of 30 December 1983 on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to insurance
against civil liability in respect of the use of motor vehicles ( OJ L 8, 1 1.1.1984 ).
( 3 ) Third Council Directive 90 / 232 / EEC of 14 May 1990 on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to insurance against
civil liability in respect of the use of motor vehicles ( OJ L 129, 19.5.1990 ).
( 4 ) OJ C 308, 20.11.1995 .

( 97 / C 217 / 234 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0347 / 97

by Anne Mcintosh ( PPE ) to the Commission

(4 February 1997 )

Subject : Alternatives to cattle labelling

Does the Commission agree that calves, and other animals, could be freeze-branded at birth as an alternative to
the present methods of cattle labelling ?

Would the Commission agree that this practice would make it both easier to identify cattle and safer for their
inspection than the current system of tagging ?      

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 17 February 1997 )

The current provisions under Directive 92 / 102 / EEC (') on the identification and registration of animals require
that all bovine animals present on a holding are identified with an ear tag bearing an alphanumeric code, which
shall not exceed 14 characters . Freeze branding is not a permitted method, because it does not allow for the
necessary degree of precision and clarity .

Recently the Commission has presented a proposal for a regulation to the Council ( 2 ) to replace the current
Directive, in which it is proposed that bovine animals shall be identified by an ear tag applied in each ear .

(') OJ L 355,5.12.1992 .
( 2 ) COM ( 96)460 final .

No C 217 / 160 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17.7 . 97

( 97 / C 217 / 235 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0349 / 97

by Jose Garcia-Margallo y Marfil ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : CMO for rice : techniques for verifying cultivated areas

In its 1992 discharge recommendation the Council recognized the need to introduce land registers for areas
supporting rice cultivation in order to improve control procedures in respect of appropriations paid out under the
common market organization for rice .

In its 1992 discharge decision of 5 April 1995 ('), the European Parliament stressed the need for Member States
to have comprehensive land registers .

Nevertheless, the Court of Auditors ' annual report concerning the financial year 1995 notes that the Commission
has not yet responded to the Council 's request to set up a land register for areas supporting rice cultivation .

Will the Commission promote remote-sensing techniques or other systems for verifying areas supporting rice
cultivation ?

(') OJ L 141, 24.6.1995, p . 51 .

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Co mm ission

( 25 February 1997 )

The Commission refers the Honourable Member to the answer it gave to question E-3997 / 96 asked by Mr Arias
Canete (')•

As a further point, the ' Integrated Administration and Control System ' ( IACS ) established under Regulation
( EEC ) No 3508 / 92 ( 2 ), which has applied to rice since 1996 ( Regulation ( EC ) No 3072 / 95 ( 3 )), stipulates that
there must be ' an alphanumeric identification system for agricultural parcels ' and ' an integrated control system .'

Remote-sensing is one of the monitoring methods provided for under the integrated system and areas supporting
rice cultivation are fairly easy to verify in this way . The Commission encourages this technique and will
part-finance expenses incurred as a result of using remote sensing until 1998 ( Regulation ( EC ) No 165 / 94 ( 4 )).
However, Member States are free to choose their own control methods .

The current situation is therefore entirely in line with the recommendations made by Parliament and the Court of
Auditors .

(') OJ C 186, 18.6.1997 .
( 2 ) OJ L 355, 5.12.1992 .
(') OJ L 329, 30.12.1995 .
( 4 ) OJ L 24, 29.1.1994 .

( 97 / C 217 / 236 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0350 / 97

by Jose Garcia-Margallo y Marfil ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : CMO for rice : EAGGF expenditure in Spain

The Court of Auditors ' annual report for the financial year 1995 notes that EAGGF Guarantee Section
expenditure on rice has decreased by 38% from ECU 87.3 million in 1992 to ECU 54 million in 1996 . This fall is
attributed to the phasing-out of the aid for indica rice in 1 994 and, in particular, to the drop in rice exports from
375 161 tonnes in 1991 / 92 to around 125 000 tonnes in 1995 .

How much aid was paid under the EAGGF to rice producers in Spain in 1992 and in 1996 ?

17 . 7 . 97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 161

( 97 / C 217 / 237 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0351 / 97

by Jose Garria-Margallo y Marfil ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : CMO for rice : EAGGF expenditure in France

The Court of Auditors ' annual report for the financial year 1995 notes that EAGGF Guarantee Section
expenditure on rice has decreased by 38% from ECU 87.3 million in 1992 to ECU 54 million in 1996 . This fall is
attributed to the phasing-out of the aid for indica rice in 1994 and, in particular, to the drop in rice exports from
375 161 tonnes in 1991 / 92 to around 125 000 tonnes in 1995 .

How much aid was paid under the EAGGF to rice producers in France in 1992 and in 1996 ?

( 97 / C 217 / 238 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0352 / 97

by Jose Garcia-Margallo y Marfil ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : CMO for rice : EAGGF expenditure in Greece

The Court of Auditors ' annual report for the financial year 1995 notes that EAGGF Guarantee Section
expenditure on rice has decreased by 38% from ECU 87.3 million in 1992 to ECU 54 million in 1996 . This fall is
attributed to the phasing-out of the aid for indica rice in 1994 and, in particular, to the drop in rice exports from
375 161 tonnes in 1991 / 92 to around 125 000 tonnes in 1995 .

How much aid was paid under the EAGGF to rice producers in Greece in 1992 and in 1996 ?

( 97 /C 217 / 239 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0353 / 97

by Jose Garcia-Margallo y Marfil ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : CMO for rice : EAGGF expenditure in Italy

The Court of Auditors ' annual report for the financial year 1995 notes that EAGGF Guarantee Section
expenditure on rice has decreased by 38% from ECU 87.3 million in 1992 to ECU 54 million in 1996 . This fall is
attributed to the phasing-out of the aid for indica rice in 1994 and, in particular, to the drop in rice exports from
375 161 tonnes in 1991 / 92 to around 125 000 tonnes in 1995 .

How much aid was paid under the EAGGF to rice producers in Italy in 1 992 and in 1 996 ?

( 91 IC 217 / 240 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0354 / 97

by Jose Garcia-Margailo y Marfil ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : CMO for rice : EAGGF expenditure in Portugal

The Court of Auditors ' annual report for the financial year 1995 notes that EAGGF Guarantee Section
expenditure on rice has decreased by 38% from ECU 87.3 million in 1992 to ECU 54 million in 1996 . This fall is
attributed to the phasing-out of the aid for indica rice in 1994 and, in particular, to the drop in rice exports from
375 161 tonnes in 1991 / 92 to around 125 000 tonnes in 1995 .

How much aid was paid under the EAGGF to rice producers in Portugal in 1 992 and in 1 996 ?

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 24 1 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0355 / 97

by Jose Garcia-Margallo y Marfil ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on refunds in Spain

The Court of Auditors ' annual report for the financial year 1995 notes that EAGGF Guarantee Section
expenditure on rice has decreased by 38% from ECU 87.3 million in 1992 to ECU 54 million in 1996 . This fall

No C 217 / 162 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

is attributed to the phasing-out of the aid for indica rice in 1994 and, in particular, to the drop in rice exports from
375 161 tonnes in 1991 / 92 to around 125 000 tonnes in 1995 .

How much aid was paid under the EAGGF to rice producers in Spain in the form of refunds for rice in 1 992 and
in 1996 ?

( 97 / C 217 / 242 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0356 / 97

by Jose Garcia-Margallo y Marfil ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on refunds in France

The Court of Auditors ' annual report for the financial year 1995 notes that EAGGF Guarantee Section
expenditure on rice has decreased by 38% from ECU 87.3 million in 1992 to ECU 54 million in 1996 . This fall is
attributed to the phasing-out of the aid for indica rice in 1994 and, in particular, to the drop in rice exports from
375 161 tonnes in 1991 / 92 to around 125 000 tonnes in 1995 .

How much aid was paid under the EAGGF to rice producers in France in the form of refunds for rice in 1992 and
in 1996 ?

( 97 / C 217 / 243 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0357 / 97

by Jose Garcia-Margallo y Marfil ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on refunds in Greece

The Court of Auditors ' annual report for the financial year 1995 notes that EAGGF Guarantee Section
expenditure on rice has decreased by 38% from ECU 87.3 million in 1992 to ECU 54 million in 1996 . This fall is
attributed to the phasing-out of the aid for indica rice in 1994 and, in particular, to the drop in rice exports from
375 161 tonnes in 1991 / 92 to around 125 000 tonnes in 1995 .

How much aid was paid under the EAGGF to rice producers in Greece in the form of refunds for rice in 1992 and
in 1996 ?

( 97 / C 217 / 244 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0358 / 97

by Jose Garcia-Margallo y Marfil ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on refunds in Italy

The Court of Auditors ' annual report for the financial year 1995 notes that EAGGF Guarantee Section
expenditure on rice has decreased by 38% from ECU 87.3 million in 1992 to ECU 54 million in 1996 . This fall is
attributed to the phasing-out of the aid for indica rice in 1994 and, in particular, to the drop in rice exports from
375 161 tonnes in 1991 / 92 to around 125 000 tonnes in 1995 .

How much aid was paid under the EAGGF to rice producers in Italy in the form of refunds for rice in 1 992 and in

1996 ?

( 97 / C 217 / 245 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0359 / 97

by Jose Garcia-Margallo y Marfil ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on refunds in Portugal

The Court of Auditors ' annual report for the financial year 1995 notes that EAGGF Guarantee Section
expenditure on rice has decreased by 38% from ECU 87.3 million in 1992 to ECU 54 million in 1996 . This fall is
attributed to the phasing-out of the aid for indica rice in 1 994 and, in particular, to the drop in rice exports from
375 161 tonnes in 1991 / 92 to around 125 000 tonnes in 1995 .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 163

How much aid was paid under the EAGGF to rice producers in Portugal in the form of refunds for rice in 1992
and in 1996 ?

( 97 / C 217 / 246 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0360 / 97

by Jose Garcia-Margallo y Marfil ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on public storage in Spain

The Court of Auditors ' annual report for the financial year 1995 notes that EAGGF Guarantee Section
expenditure on rice has decreased by 38% from ECU 87.3 million in 1992 to ECU 54 million in 1996 . This fall is
attributed to the phasing-out of the aid for indica rice in 1994 and, in particular, to the drop in rice exports from
375 161 tonnes in 1991 / 92 to around 125 000 tonnes in 1995 .

How much aid was paid under the EAGGF to rice producers in Spain in respect of the technical and financial
costs of public storage in 1992 and in 1996 ?

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 247 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0361 / 97

by Jose Garcia-Margallo y Marfil ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on public storage in France

The Court of Auditors ' annual report for the financial year 1995 notes that EAGGF Guarantee Section
expenditure on rice has decreased by 38% from ECU 87.3 million in 1992 to ECU 54 million in 1996 . This fall is
attributed to the phasing-out of the aid for indica rice in 1994 and, in particular, to the drop in rice exports from
375 161 tonnes in 1991 / 92 to around 125 000 tonnes in 1995 .

How much aid was paid under the EAGGF to rice producers in France in respect of the technical and financial
costs of public storage in 1992 and in 1996 ?

( 91IC 217 / 248 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0362 / 97

by Jose Garcia-Margallo y Marfil ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on public storage in Greece

The Court of Auditors ' annual report for the financial year 1995 notes that EAGGF Guarantee Section
expenditure on rice has decreased by 38% from ECU 87.3 million in 1992 to ECU 54 million in 1996 . This fall is
attributed to the phasing-out of the aid for indica rice in 1994 and, in particular, to the drop in rice exports from
375 161 tonnes in 1991 / 92 to around 125 000 tonnes in 1995 .

How much aid was paid under the EAGGF to rice producers in Greece in respect of the technical and financial
costs of public storage in 1992 and in 1996 ?

( 97 / C 217 / 249 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0363 / 97

by Jose Garcia-Margallo y Marfil ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on public storage in Italy

The Court of Auditors ' annual report for the financial year 1995 notes that EAGGF Guarantee Section
expenditure on rice has decreased by 38% from ECU 87.3 million in 1992 to ECU 54 million in 1996 . This fall is
attributed to the phasing-out of the aid for indica rice in 1 994 and, in particular, to the drop in rice exports from
375 161 tonnes in 1991 / 92 to around 125 000 tonnes in 1995 .

How much aid was paid under the EAGGF to rice producers in Italy in respect of the technical and financial costs
of public storage in 1992 and in 1996 ?

No C 217 / 164 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17.7.97

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 250 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0364 / 97

by Jose Garcia-Margallo y Marfil ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on public storage in Portugal      

The Court of Auditors ' annual report for the financial year 1995 notes that EAGGF Guarantee Section
expenditure on rice has decreased by 38% from ECU 87.3 million in 1992 to ECU 54 million in 1996 . This fall is
attributed to the phasing-out of the aid for indica rice in 1994 and, in particular, to the drop in rice exports from
375 161 tonnes in 1991 / 92 to around 125 000 tonnes in 1995 .

How much aid was paid under the EAGGF to rice producers in Portugal in respect of the technical and financial
costs of public storage in 1992 and in 1996 ?

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 25 1 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0365 / 97

by Jose Garcia-Margallo y Marfil ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on other storage costs in Spain

The Court of Auditors ' annual report for the financial year 1995 notes that EAGGF Guarantee Section
expenditure on rice has decreased by 38% from ECU 87.3 million in 1992 to ECU 54 million in 1996 . This fall is
attributed to the phasing-out of the aid for indica rice in 1994 and, in particular, to the drop in rice exports from
375 161 tonnes in 1991 / 92 to around 125 000 tonnes in 1995 .

How much aid was paid under the EAGGF to rice producers in Spain in respect of other storage costs in 1 992 and
in 1996 ?

( 97 / C 217 / 252 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0366 / 97

by Jose Garcia-Margallo y Marfil ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on other storage costs in France

The Court of Auditors ' annual report for the financial year 1995 notes that EAGGF Guarantee Section
expenditure on rice has decreased by 38% from ECU 87.3 million in 1992 to ECU 54 million in 1996 . This fall is
attributed to the phasing-out of the aid for indica rice in 1994 and, in particular, to the drop in rice exports from
375 161 tonnes in 1991 / 92 to around 125 000 tonnes in 1995 .

How much aid was paid under the EAGGF to rice producers in France in respect of other storage costs in 1992
and in 1996 ?

( 97 / C 217 / 253 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0367 / 97

by Jose Garcia-Margallo y Marfil ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on other storage costs in Greece

The Court of Auditors ' annual report for the financial year 1995 notes that EAGGF Guarantee Section
expenditure on rice has decreased by 38% from ECU 87.3 million in 1992 to ECU 54 million in 1996 . This fall is
attributed to the phasing-out of the aid for indica rice in 1994 and, in particular, to the drop in rice exports from
375 161 tonnes in 1991 / 92 to around 125 000 tonnes in 1995 .

How much aid was paid under the EAGGF to rice producers in Greece in respect of other storage costs in 1 992
and in 1996 ?

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 165

( 97 / C 217 / 254 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0368 / 97

by Jose Garria-Margallo y MarfH ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on other storage costs in Italy

The Court of Auditors ' annual report for the financial year 1995 notes that EAGGF Guarantee Section
expenditure on rice has decreased by 38% from ECU 87.3 million in 1992 to ECU 54 million in 1996 . This fall is
attributed to the phasing-out of the aid for indica rice in 1 994 and, in particular, to the drop in rice exports from
375 161 tonnes in 1991 / 92 to around 125 000 tonnes in 1995 .

How much aid was paid under the EAGGF to rice producers in Italy in respect of other storage costs in 1992 and
in 1996 ?

( 97 / C 217 / 255 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0369 / 97

by Jose Garcia-Margallo y Marfil ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on other storage costs in Portugal

The Court of Auditors ' annual report for the financial year 1995 notes that EAGGF Guarantee Section
expenditure on rice has decreased by 38% from ECU 87.3 million in 1992 to ECU 54 million in 1996 . This fall is
attributed to the phasing-out of the aid for indica rice in 1994 and, in particular, to the drop in rice exports from
375 161 tonnes in 1991 / 92 to around 125 000 tonnes in 1995 .

How much aid was paid under the EAGGF to rice producers in Portugal in respect of other storage costs in 1 992
and in 1996 ?

( 97 / C 217 / 256 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0370 / 97

by Jose Garcia-Margallo y Marnl ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure arising from the depreciation of stocks in Spain

The Court of Auditors ' annual report for the financial year 1995 notes that EAGGF Guarantee Section
expenditure on rice has decreased by 38% from ECU 87.3 million in 1992 to ECU 54 million in 1996 . This fall is
attributed to the phasing-out of the aid for indica rice in 1994 and, in particular, to the drop in rice exports from
375 161 tonnes in 1991 / 92 to around 125 000 tonnes in 1995 .

How much aid was paid under the EAGGF to rice producers in Spain in respect of the depreciation of stocks in

1992 and in 1996 ?

( 97 / C 217 / 257 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0371 / 97

by Jose Garcia-Margallo y Marfil ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure arising from the depreciation of stocks in France

The Court of Auditors ' annual report for the financial year 1995 notes that EAGGF Guarantee Section
expenditure on rice has decreased by 38% from ECU 87.3 million in 1992 to ECU 54 million in 1996 . This fall is
attributed to the phasing-out of the aid foe      - indica rice in 1994 and, in particular, to the drop in rice exports from
375 161 tonnes in 1991 / 92 to around 125 000 tonnes in 1995 .

How much aid was paid under the EAGGF to rice producers in France in respect of the depreciation of stocks in

1992 and in 1996 ?

No C 217 / 166 v EN Official Journal of the European Communities 7 . 7 . 97

( 97 / C 217 / 258 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0372 / 97

by Jose Garcia-Margallo y Marfil ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure arising from the depreciation of stocks in Greece

The Court of Auditors ' annual report for the financial year 1995 notes that EAGGF Guarantee Section
expenditure on rice has decreased by 38% from ECU 87.3 million in 1992 to ECU 54 million in 1996 . This fall is
attributed to the phasing-out of the aid for indica rice in 1994 and, in particular, to the drop in rice exports from
375 161 tonnes in 1991 / 92 to around 125 000 tonnes in 1995 .

How much aid was paid under the EACJGF to rice producers in Greece in respect of the depreciation of stocks in

1992 and in 1996 ?

( 97 / C 217 / 259 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0373 / 97

by Jose Garria-Margallo y Marfil ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure arising from the depreciation of stocks in Italy

The Court of Auditors ' annual report for the financial year 1995 notes that EAGGF Guarantee Section
expenditure on rice has decreased by 38% from ECU 87.3 million in 1992 to ECU 54 million in 1996 . This fall is
attributed to the phasing-out of the aid for indica rice in 1994 and, in particular, to the drop in rice exports from
375 161 tonnes in 1991 / 92 to around 125 000 tonnes in 1995 .

How much aid was paid under the EAGGF to rice producers in Italy in respect of the depreciation of stocks in

1992 and in 1996 ?

( 97 / C 217 / 260 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0374 / 97

by Jose Garda-Margallo y Marfil ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure arising from the depreciation of stocks in Portugal

The Court of Auditors ' annual report for the financial year 1995 notes that EAGGF Guarantee Section
expenditure on rice has decreased by 38% from ECU 87.3 million in 1992 to ECU 54 million in 1996 . This fall is
attributed to the phasing-out of the aid for indica rice in 1994 and, in particular, to the drop in rice exports from
375 161 tonnes in 1991 / 92 to around 125 000 tonnes in 1995 .

How much aid was paid under the EAGGF to rice producers in Portugal in respect of the depreciation of stocks in

1992 and in 1996 ?

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 26 1 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0375 / 97

by Jose Garcia-Margallo y Marfil ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on production aid in Spain

The Court of Auditors ' annual report for the financial year 1995 notes that EAGGF Guarantee Section
expenditure on rice has decreased by 38% from ECU 87.3 million in 1992 to ECU 54 million in 1996 . This fall is
attributed to the phasing-out of the aid for indica rice in 1994 and, in particular, to the drop in rice exports from
375 161 tonnes in 1991 / 92 to around 125 000 tonnes in 1995 .

How much aid was paid under the EAGGF to rice producers in Spain in the form of production aid for Indica rice
in 1992 and in 1996 ?

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 167

( 97 / C 217 / 262 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0376 / 97

by Jose Garcia-Margallo y Marfil ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on production aid in France

The Court of Auditors ' annual report for the financial year 1995 notes that EAGGF Guarantee Section
expenditure on rice has decreased by 38% from ECU 87.3 million in 1992 to ECU 54 million in 1996 . This fall is
attributed to the phasing-out of the aid for indica rice in 1994 and, in particular, to the drop in rice exports from
375 161 tonnes in 1991 / 92 to around 125 000 tonnes in 1995 .

How much aid was paid under the EAGGF to rice producers in France in the form of production aid for Indica
rice in 1992 and in 1996 ?

( 97 / C 217 / 263 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0377 / 97

by Jose Garcia-Margallo y Marfil ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on production aid in Greece

The Court of Auditors ' annual report for the financial year 1995 notes that EAGGF Guarantee Section
expenditure on rice has decreased by 38% from ECU 87.3 million in 1992 to ECU 54 million in 1996 . This fall is
attributed to the phasing-out of the aid for indica rice in 1994 and, in particular, to the drop in rice exports from
375 161 tonnes in 1991 / 92 to around 125 000 tonnes in 1995 .

How much aid was paid under the EAGGF to rice producers in Greece in the form of production aid for Indica
rice in 1992 and in 1996 ?

( 97 / C 217 / 264 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0378 / 97

by Jose Garcia-Margallo y Marfil ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on production aid in Italy

The Court of Auditors ' annual report for the financial year 1995 notes that EAGGF Guarantee Section
expenditure on rice has decreased by 38% from ECU 87.3 million in 1992 to ECU 54 million in 1996 . This fall is
attributed to the phasing-out of the aid for indica rice in 1 994 and, in particular, to the drop in rice exports from
375 161 tonnes in 1991 / 92 to around 125 000 tonnes in 1995 .

How much aid was paid under the EAGGF to rice producers in Italy in the form of production aid for Indica rice
in 1992 and in 1996 ?

( 97 / C 217 / 265 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0379 / 97

by Jose Garcia-Margallo y Marfil ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : CMO for rice : expenditure on production aid in Portugal

The Court of Auditors ' annual report for the financial year 1995 notes that EAGGF Guarantee Section
expenditure on rice has decreased by 38% from ECU 87.3 million in 1992 to ECU 54 million in 1996 . This fall is
attributed to the phasing-out of the aid for indica rice in 1994 and, in particular, to the drop in rice exports from
375 161 tonnes in 1991 / 92 to around 125 000 tonnes in 1995 .

How much aid was paid under the EAGGF to rice producers in Portugal in the form of production aid for Indica
rice in 1992 and in 1996 ?

No C 217 / 168 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 7.7 . 97

Joint answer

to Written Questions E-0350 / 97, E-0351 / 97, E-0352 / 97, E-0353 / 97, E-0354 / 97, E-0355 / 97,

E-0356 / 97, E-0357 / 97, E-0358 / 97, E-359 / 97, E-0360 / 97, E-0361 / 97, E-0362 / 97, E-0363 / 97,
E-0364 / 97, E-0365 / 97, E-0366 / 97, E-0367 / 97, E-0368 / 97, E-0369 / 97, E-0370 / 97, E-0371 / 97,
E-0372 / 97, E-0373 / 97, E-0374 / 97, E-0375 / 97, E-0376 / 97, E-0377 / 97, E-0378 / 97 and E-0379 / 97

given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

(4 March 1997 )

The Honourable Member will find the budgetary data ( expenditure ) he requested in the table below :

Million ecu

No of
the question Heading

SPAIN FRANCE GREECE ITALY PORTUGAL

1992 1996 (*) 1992 1996 (*) 1992 1996 (*) 1992 1996 (*) 1992 1996 (*)

350 / 97 to

354 / 97

355 / 97 to

359 / 97

360 / 97 to

364 / 97

365 / 97 to

369 / 97

370 / 97 to

374 / 97

375 / 97 to

379 / 97

(*) provisional

Production aid for rice 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

Rice export refunds 2.4 2.2 0.9 0.2 0.2 0.6 84.3 29.5 3.2 0.1

Public storage ( technical
and financial costs )

1.0 0.0 0.2 0.0 0.0 0.0 4.5 0.0 0.0 0.0

Public storage ( other costs ) - 4.4 0.0 0.8 0.0 0.0 0.0 - 24.9 0.0 - 0.3 - 0.1

Public storage ( depreciation
of stocks )

0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 2.0 0.0 0.0 0.1

Production aid for indica rice 11.6 0.0 0.1 0.0 0.8 0.0 4.9 0.0 0.8 0.0

Other 0.0 0.0 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

Total rice 10.5 2.2 2.0 0.2 1.0 0.6 70.9 29.5 3.6 0.1

The difference between expenditure in the 1992 and 1996 financial years is mainly explained by the expiry of the

payment period for production aid for indica rice ( paid, following an extension, for a longer period than that
provided for in the initial Regulation ) and by the fact that in 1992 there were massive exports from intervention
stocks involving considerable expenditure on refunds .

The data for 1992 are taken from the 22nd Financial Report of the EAGGF Guarantee Section ( 1992 financial
year ). This Financial Report is forwarded each year by the Commission to the budgetary authority . The 26th
report ( for 1 996 ) is currently being prepared .

( 97 / C 217 / 266 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0382 / 97

by Sergio Ribeiro ( GUE / NGL ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : Cases of occupational disease in the firm Ford Electrónica Portuguesa ( Setubal — Portugal )

In November 1995 I tabled a question to the Commission ( E-3198 / 95 ) (') on the occurrence of an occupational
disease — tendonitis — caused by the methods and pace of work in the Setubal region, which at that time affected
more than 300 workers . In its reply of 13 February 1996 the Commission cited Directive 89 / 391 / EEC ( 2 ) and
Recommendation 90 / 326 / EEC ( 3 ).

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 169

Now, more than a year later, around 600 workers employed by Ford Electronica Portuguesa are suffering from
tendonitis, 200 of whom have already been recognized as having contracted an occupational disease by the
medical inspection services of the National Centre for Protection against Occupational Risks . Despite the action
taken by workers ' representatives and the relevant trade union organization, nothing has yet been done to check
the spread of the disease and new cases of tendonitis are coming to light every day . It should also be pointed out
that workers who have already been confirmed as suffering from an occupational disease are prevented from
working even though their performance is not impaired and that their income is therefore limited to social
security payments .

Ford Electronica previously encountered a similar problem in its factory in Brazil, where the situation was
resolved by dismissing more than 3000 workers who were suffering from tendonitis and transferring production
to Portugal with the equipment from the Brazilian factory .

These circumstances, aggravated by the fear that an identical solution might be found in Portugal, are having an
impact on the professional, family and social lives of the workers and on the region as a whole .

In view of the Directive, which has been transposed into national law, and the recommendation, which is not
legally binding, does the Commission not consider that it would be justified in issuing a warning to the
Portuguese Government in connection with the protection of the health of workers at work and the prevention of
anti-social practices ?

(') OJ C 109, 15.4.1996 . p . 32 .
( 2 ) OJ L 183, 29.6.1989, p . 1 .
C ) OJ L 160, 26.6.1990, p . 39 .

Answer given by Mr Flynn on behalf of the Commission

( 26 March 1997 )

The Honourable Member is referred to the answer given by the Commission to his written question E-3 198 / 95 .

The Commission would emphasise that from the moment that Portugal completed transposal into national law of
the Council Directive of 12 June 1989 on the introduction of measures to encourage improvements in the safety
and health of workers at work ( 89 / 391 / EEC ), application of the Directive became the responsibility of the
national authorities .

( 97 / C 217 / 267 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0383 / 97

by Annemarie Kuhn ( PSE ) to the Commission

(4 February 1997 )

Subject : Dumping of beef by the European Union in Africa

According to press reports, EU beef supplies to South Africa and Namibia have risen from 3 500 to 42 500 tonnes
since 1992 . Sales of Namibian and South African beef have fallen by 25% and prices by about 20% as a result .

Can the Commission confirm this case of dumping of beef and what are its views on the economic damage
inflicted, which is estimated at ECU 1 00 million, a sum equivalent to the EU 's total development aid for the Cape
region ?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 21 February 1997 )

At the end of August 1996 the South African authorities sent the Commission a note complaining about the
growing exports of Community beef and veal to that country and about the negative effect they were having on
the income of its producers and producers in neighbouring African countries .

When the Commission replied at the end of September 1 996, it asked the South African authorities to provide
concrete examples that would make it possible to pinpoint instances of the dumping mentioned . This request is,
as yet, unanswered .

No c 217 / 170 ΓΕΝ Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

Nevertheless, with a view to encouraging a resumption of trade in beef and veal in the ' Southern African
development community ' and to supporting the efforts made towards regional integration in Africa, the
Commission decided, with effect from 1 February 1997, to group all African countries under one geographical
heading .

This measure, which relates to boneless meats put up in single packages other than the meat of adult male bovine
animals, has the practical effect of reducing the export refund for these products by about 8.5% in the case of the
countries of eastern and southern Africa, South Africa obviously included . It should be pointed out that this
reduction in the refund is in addition to an initial linear 1 0% reduction in the refunds for all beef and veal products
and for all destinations with effect from 15 January 1997 .

Lastly, it should be noted that Namibia, like the other African ACP ( Africa, the Caribbean, Pacific ) countries,
receives preferential treatment for its beef and veal imports to the Community and accordingly is not a
destination for which export refunds are available .

( 97 / C 217 / 268 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0384 / 97

by Astrid Thors ( ELDR ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : The Commission 's actions as regards xylitol

According to reports in the media, the Commission intends to request an explanation from Finland, pursuant to
Article 169 of the Treaty of Rome, as to why xylitol-sweetened products are exempt from excise duty there .

The Finnish exemption is based specifically on extensive studies which focused in particular on xylitol ' s effects
on teeth .

In view of the poor state of dental health in the Member States and the economic cost of dental care, what steps is
the Commission considering in order to obtain a better understanding of xylitol ' s effects and to encourage its use
in all Member States ?

Answer given by Mr Monti on behalf of the Commission

( 11 March 1997 )

The Commission would refer the Honourable Member to its joint answer to Written Questions P-0002 / 97 by
Mrs Hautala and E-0022 / 97 by Mrs Myller (').

(') See page 69 .

( 91 /C 217 / 269 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0385 / 97

by Umberto Bossi ( NI ) to the Commission

(4 February 1997 )

Subject : Permitted maximum quantity of residues in certain fish species

Samples taken by the appropriate health departments in Lombardy and Piedmont regions have revealed that the
concentration of DDT in some fish species in Lake Maggiore is higher than the maximum values permitted by
law . The regional council health offices have imposed a fishing and marketing ban in respect of certain species
and are apparently about to extend it to cover the remaining species .

Italian health regulations governing the production and marketing of fishery products are subject to Legislative
Decree No 531 of 30 December 1992, adopted in implementation of Directive 91 / 493 / EEC ('), in which the
maximum quantities of contaminants that can be tolerated are defined with reference to the ' acceptable daily or
weekly intake for humans ' ( Annex, Chapter V ), but the admissible limits are not specified in any more detail .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 171

Can the Commission put a figure on the ' daily or weekly intake ' of contaminants considered ' acceptable ' for
humans ?

Can it say whether and to what extent the Member States have regulated the limit values of contaminants present
in fish species ?

(') OJ L 268, 24.9.1991, p . 15 .

Answer given by M. Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 26 February 1997 )

DDT is a persistent organochlorine pesticide which has been prohibited for use as a plant protection product in
the Community since 1979 ( Council Directive No 79 / 1 17 / EEC of 21 December 1978 prohibiting the placing on
the market and use of plant protection products containing certain active substances (')). Although the results of
monitoring studies show that contamination in the environment of DDT metabolites and degradation products is
now low and continues to fall, significant residues may still arise in fatty animal tissues due to their
bioaccumultative properties . Higher levels may arise locally due to previous point contamination, such as
dumping of manufacturing waste .

The joint meeting of the Food and agriculture organisation panel of experts on pesticide residues in food and the
environment and the World health organisation expert group on pesticide residues ( JMPR ) in 1994 confirmed for
DDT a provisional tolerable daily intake of 0.02 milligramme per kilogramme body weight per day .

Accordingly to information available to the Commission several Member States have established maximum
levels for fish and fish products .

(') OJ L 33, 8.2.1979 .

( 97 / C 217 / 270 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0387 / 97

by Ilona Graenitz ( PSE ) to the Commission

(4 February 1997 )

Subject : Gen maize

On 18 December 1996 the Commission decided to authorize the placing on the market of genetically modified
maize notified by Ciba-Geigy in accordance with Directive 90 / 220 (')• This decision was based on reports from
three Scientific Committees ( The Scientific Committee on Food, The Scientific Committee on Animal Nutrition
and The Scientific Committee for Pesticides ). The decision was reached although a large majority of Member
States ( 13 out of 15 members ) as well as the European Parliament, strongly oppose the placing of this maize .

In view of the above, does the Commission agree that this case proves once again that the existing comitology
procedures applied for such important decisions do not correspond to the necessary democratic standards and
therefore need to be revised substantially in the course of the current Intergovernmental Conference ?

(') OJ L 117, 8.5.1990, p . 15 .

Answer given by Mr Santer on behalf of the Commission

(2 April 1997 )

As the Member of the Commission responsible for the environment emphasized when addressing the Committee
on the Environment on 21 January 1997, one of the Commission 's major concerns, in the procedure in this case,
was to ensure that it was informed of all potential health hazards from this product before it took a decision .

The Commission wished to take all the necessary precautions in view of the development of scientific knowledge
on the matter and public health constraints . At that stage of the procedure, in order to ensure that it took a studied
decision based on the latest knowledge, the Commission consulted three scientific committees on food for
human consumption, feedingstuffs and pesticides beforehand .

No C 217 / 172 I EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

Thus, on the basis of the opinions delivered by the scientific committees following thorough research, the
Commission assured itself that there was no reason to believe that the genetically modified maize produced by
Ciba-Geigy constituted any threat to human health or the environment . Moreover, the Commission found that the
opinions given by the scientific experts raised no doubts about the grounds for its proposal . On 1 8 December

1996, in accordance with the provisions in force, the Commission accordingly took a decision on the principle of
authorizing the marketing of genetically modified maize following the notification (')•

The Commission would recall that it is studying possible improvements to be made to the operation of
committees .

f 1 ) OJ L 31, 1.2.1997 .

( 97 / C 217 / 271 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0390 / 97

by Bernd Lange ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : Implementation of the ALFA programme

There are growing complaints in Germany about the administration of the ALFA programme . One source of
particular difficulty for applicants lies in the fact that the necessary documents are always produced initially in
Spanish only and the English or German versions are generally not available until after the deadlines specified in
the documents have expired . Furthermore, Spanish is the only language used for correspondence by the
Commission department concerned .

1 . Does the Commission believe this to be an appropriate way to deal with the public ?

2 . What steps will the Commission take to remedy these shortcomings ?

Answer given by Mr Mann on behalf of the Commission

(7 March 1997 )

The Commission chose four working languages for the Alfa programme ( Spanish, English, French and
Portuguese ) in view of the languages spoken in the Latin American countries covered by the programme and the
languages chiefly used for the dissemination of Community information .

Solely with the aim of speeding up the process of examining proposals received ( and, of course,
decision-making ) it is suggested that proposing groups should — as far as possible — put their proposals in one of
the four selected languages . Where they decide to present them in a different language from those suggested the
Commission must arrange translation so that the papers can be studied by those running the Alfa programme, the
technical assistance office and members of the scientific committee .

The Commission would inform the Honourable Member that documents are always available on time and
simultaneously in all four languages used in the programme that correspondence to interested parties is always in
the language in which documents were received or, if necessary, in English or French ; and that where it is
actually requested, the Commission always takes steps for information documents to be translated into other
languages .

The Commission 's opinion is that its way of dealing with the public is appropriate, in that the parties benefiting
directly from the programme are, primarily, the Latin American countries .

The Commission intends to carry on working in the same way in order to facilitate access to Alfa programme
documents in several languages whenever an actual request is received .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 173

( 97 / C 217 / 272 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0393 / 97

by Bernd Lange ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : 1996 PHARE ACE programme

The Commission has enlisted the services of an external agency to implement the PHARE ACE grant
programme . The grant contracts used by this agency are drawn up in English only . The agency requires every
page of the contract and all the annexes to be initialled individually . In addition, the contracts are governed by
Belgian law because the agency is based in Belgium .

1 . Does the Commission agree that the requirement of initialling every single page amounts to red tape in
which the effort expended is out of all proportion to its usefulness ?

2 . Does it agree that the act of initialling every single page — that is to say, formal approval of each individual
form of words — ought to presuppose that applicants should be furnished with contracts in their own language ?

3 . Does it agree that a translation into French or Flemish should be attached to contracts governed by Belgian
law ?

Answer given by Mr Van den Broek on behalf of the Commission

( 26 March 1997 )

1 . For both parties to initial each individual page of a contract corresponds to international practices with a
view to establishing indisputably the content of the agreement reached . It is not an absolute necessity but rather it
serves legal security and clarity with little effort .

2 . Contracts are concluded in the language agreed by the contracting parties . It can be supposed that the
content of the agreement which they have signed and initialled has been understood .

3 . Reference to the use of Belgian or other national laws in a contract would serve to clarify and complete the
content of a summary contract text . All questions that are not explicitly covered by the contract are to be
answered according to the solutions and rules offered by the agreed legal order . The language . of this system of
law will not necessarily accord with the language of the contract .

The question of language however could become an issue of importance when a conflict over the contract is
brought before a national court which uses a different official language . Such cases are rare and do not justify the
expense to establish every contract in multiple yet equally binding language versions . It suffices to translate the
original if the need arises .

( 97 / C 217 / 273 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0394 / 97

by Gianfranco Dell ' Alba ( ARE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : Prato freight terminal

The Prato freight terminal project, proposed by the Prato-based company Interporto della Toscana Centrale
S.p.a ., was launched in 1984 .

Italian State Railways, the main intended beneficiary of the works, decided that the freight terminal project was
unsound, because it was considered to be uneconomic, and has consequently never provided funding for it .

In spite of that fact, EEC funds have already been allocated to Interporto della Toscana Centrale S.p.a ., as
detailed below :

      - Regulation ( EEC ) I^o 2052 / 88 : 1988-93 operational programme :
first instalment = LIT 5 756 500 000

      - Regulation ( EEC ) No 2052 / 88 : POT ( 1991-93 ):
second instalment = LIT 5 000 000 000

      - Regulation ( EEC ) No 2081 / 93 : SPD : Objective 2 ( 1994-96 ):
third instalment = LIT 3 647 000 000

TOTAL = LIT 14 403 500 000

Interporto della Toscana Centrale S.p.a . has submitted a fresh application for further EEC funding .

1 . Does the Commission not think it strange for the Community to provide funding, bearing in mind that no
intermodal transport project can be viable when the State railway company does not support it ?

2 . Does it not believe that any further measures should be suspended until exhaustive reports have been drawn
up on the actual usefulness of the freight terminal ?

No C 217 / 174 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

3 . Should legitimate doubts about the freight terminal prove to be correct, does it not believe that Interporto
della Toscana Centrale S.p.a . should be asked to pay back the Community money it has undeservedly obtained ?

Answer given by Mrs Wulf-Mathies on behalf of the Commission

( 14 March 1997 )

The decision to cofinance the Prato ' Interporto della Toscana Centrale S.p.a .' under the previous three objective
2 single programming documents for the region of Tuscany was based upon the following considerations .

As regards its significance at national level, Prato was included in the network of interports contained in the
updated version of the general transport plan, approved by the ' Comitato interministeriale per la programma ­
zione economica dei transporti ' ( CIPET ) on 20th December 1990 . Furthermore, in the five year plan on interports
approved by CIPET on 31 March 1992 reference is made to Prato and to its area of influence which, inter alia,
includes the Milan-Rome and Florence      - Viareggio rail routes .

At regional level, the regional integrated transport plan also specifically names Prato as being one of the principal
transport interchange points .

With regard to national funding, the Tuscan interport was included in the Italian State railways ' list of strategic
centres and received funding during 1993-1995 for further development . An additional amount was made
available under law No 240 / 90 .

The above facts would support the view that Prato is of strategic importance both to the region and to Italy as a
whole .

( 97 / C 217 / 274 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0395 / 97

by Bartho Pronk ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : Discrimination against EU citizens in Newcomers Assimilation Bill in the Netherlands

A Newcomers Assimilation Bill was published in the Netherlands Government Gazette ( Staatscourant ) on

11 December 1996 . It is intended to apply only to nationals of non-member states of the EU .

At present, EU citizens are not in principle excluded from assimilation courses, and do in fact participate in them .
Some newcomers from within the EU originally came from outside the EU and therefore have much to gain from
assimilation courses, but ordinary EU citizens too may stand to benefit from them .

1 . Is the Commission aware of this bill ?

2 . If the bill is passed, will it constitute discrimination against EU citizens under the terms of Article 6 of the
EEC Treaty ?

3 . Is the bill ' s exclusion of EU citizens contrary to the free movement of workers, the integration of members
of their families in the host country and Regulation ( EEC ) No 1612 / 68 (')?

4 . If so, will the Commission draw the Netherlands ' attention to this ?

(') OJ L 257, 19.10.1968, p . 2 .

Answer given by Mr Monti on behalf of the Commission

(3 April 1997 )

It is not Commission policy to comment on draft legislation .

17 . 7 . 97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 2 7 / 175

( 97 / C 217 / 275 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0397 / 97

by Raimondo Fassa ( ELDR ) to the Commission

(4 February 1997 )

Subject : Approval of NGOs in Italy

Under the Italian Law 49 / 87 on development cooperation, non-governmental organizations have to be classed as
suitable within the meaning of Articles 28, 29, and 30 of that law in order to obtain funding from the Italian
Government . This situation, which is totally irregular by European standards, is giving rise to arbitrariness and
abuses ; it has been challenged several times by voluntary organizations themselves, it has no parallel in other
Member States, and is resulting in unfair discrimination between those NGOs which, benefiting as they do from
long-standing privileges or arbitrary favouritism, can easily secure approval and those which are equally capable
but not classed as suitable and therefore cannot be called upon to assist government departments .

It is significant that many Italian NGOs not classed as suitable have been working for many years with
Community and United Nations agencies, do an excellent job, and are highly regarded by the countries
benefiting from programmes, but, paradoxically, cannot be used by Italian bodies .

Does the Commission not believe that it should take steps to put an immediate end to this restriction on the
principle of free competition within the Community and remedy the unfairness from which Italian NGOs have
had to suffer for years ?

Answer given by Mr Pinheiro on behalf of the Commission

( 13 March 1997 )

The Commission considers this to be a matter for the Italian authorities alone .

The Commission has its own eligibility conditions for cofinancing . These are set out in the general conditions for
cofinancing, which are applied to the non-governmental organizations of all Member States without distinction .
The Commission therefore sees no infringement of the Community 's competition rules .

( 97 / C 217 / 276 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0398 / 97

by Mihail Papayannakis ( GUE / NGL ), Paraskevas Avgerinos ( PSE ), Nikitas Kaklamanis ( UPE )

and Konstantinos Hatzidakis ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : Anti-dumping measures in respect of leather products from China

Greek leather producers are facing serious problems owing to the fact that certain third countries, including
China, are marketing leather goods at prices lower than production costs ( dumping ). It is estimated that between

1992 and 1995, 336 undertakings in Greece went bankrupt and some 3000 persons became unemployed as a
result .

Other EU countries ( France, Belgium Italy and Spain ) are facing similar problems, and this has prompted the
European Leather Association to ask the Commission to take anti-dumping measures in respect of 4 products
originating from China ( women 's handbags, school gear, travel equipment and fashion accessories ).

Will the Commission say :

1 . what progress has been achieved in taking measures in respect of each of the above-mentioned products
from China ?

2 . whether it intends also to take such measures in respect of other leather products from other third countries
apart from China, as part of moves to protect EU production from unfair competition ?

No C 217 / 176 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

Answer given by Sir Leon Brittan on behalf of the Commission

( 13 March 1997 )

Three anti-dumping investigations concerning leathergoods are currently being conducted by the Commission,
following allegations of injurious dumping presented by CEDIM ( Comite Europeen des industries de la
marroquinerie ). They cover luggage and travel goods, briefcases and schoolbags, and handbags . Concerning
luggage and travel goods, in the light of the findings resulting from the preliminary investigation concerning the
representativity and economic circumstances of the Community producers sampled for the examination of
injury, interested parties have been informed that it has been proposed to the Commission to terminate the
proceeding without the adoption of anti-dumping measures . Provisional anti-dumping measures have been
adopted concerning imports of handbags (') and the investigation is being pursued in order to arrive at definitive
findings . No definitive conclusions have been reached yet in the investigation concerning briefcases and
schoolbags .

The extension of anti-dumping measures to other third countries would normally require the presentation of a
complaint by the affected Community industry, substantiated with evidence of dumped imports from the third
country in question and of resultant injury .

Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that, as a consequence of the graduation mechanism introduced by the
Community 's scheme of generalized tariff preferences ( GSP ), since 1 January 1997 China has lost 50% of the
preferential margin on all leather articles and as from 1 January 1998 these items will have to pay the full rate of
customs duty .

(') Commission Regulation ( EC ) No 209 / 97, 3.2 . 1997, imposing a provisional anti-dumping duty on imports of certain handbags originating in
the People 's Republic of China, OJ L 33, 4.2.1997 .

( 97 / C 217 / 277 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0400 / 97

by Nikitas Kaklamanis ( UPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : Saving Europe 's musical tradition

Europe has a unique musical heritage, and every country has invaluable musical treasures, but many of these are
being lost owing to a lack of suitable mechanisms for registering and exploiting them .

One such country is Greece in which efforts are being made — primarily by private initiative — to preserve the
valuable heritage of traditional music, notably the treasures of Byzantine and popular music, by recording them
and thus saving them from oblivion .

Other forms of European traditional music face similar problems and valuable examples of European culture are
being lost .

Will the Commission say whether — apart from the Kaleidoscope programme which covers music to some extent
— it has already drawn up an action programme, or intends to do so in future, to preserve traditional music and
songs in the Member States of the EU, as well as monuments of Europe 's musical tradition, such as
conservatoires, concert halls and opera houses which are directly associated with the creation of all the musical
masterpieces of Europe ?

Answer given by Mr Oreja on behalf of the Commission

( 17 March 1997 )

As part of its existing programmes and pilot measures, the Commission plans to contribute to the conservation
and restoration of the European heritage, to encourage artistic creation with a European dimension, to contribute
to the further training of artists and to promote mutual knowledge of European cultures .

Thus, under the Community 's Kaleidoscope programme, adopted on 29 March 1996, projects to encourage
singing or any other form of traditional or regional music are eligible for assistance, in the same way as other
disciplines, provided that they meet the conditions and criteria laid down in Decision No 719 / 96 / EC (')

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 177

and provided that they are cooperation projects presented jointly by operators from at least three Member States .
The call for applications under the 1997 Kaleidoscope programme has been published ( 2 ).

It may be recalled that in 1994 the pilot project on the conservation and restoration of the architectural heritage
had as its theme historic buildings and sites related to entertainment and the performing arts and that Community
support totalling ECU 4 million was given for the conservation and restoration of 60 buildings in Europe . Calls
for applications for four pilot projects will be published in the coming weeks, in anticipation of the
implementation of the Raphael programme ( currently being adopted ). Whilst one pilot project will more
specifically assist cooperation activities to enhance and give access to European museums ( with a different
theme each year ), the others are geared towards the conservation and restoration of the architectural heritage, the
further training of professionals and the provision of support for activities or events with a European dimension
which are designed to preserve the cultural heritage .

Provided that they meet the conditions and criteria set out in the various abovementioned calls for proposals,
some projects to promote the musical heritage or to ensure the conservation of places where music is performed
could be eligible for assistance .

On several occasions the Commission has also emphasized the incalculable value of the European musical
heritage and the variety and richness of its traditional and regional repertoires . This view was again restated at the
recent meeting on music in Europe, held at Ennis ( Ireland ) on 18 and 19 October . On the basis of a study
conducted by the European Music Bureau, supported by the Commission and entitled ' Music in Europe ', the aim
of this meeting, at which Parliament was represented, was to initiate discussions on areas where cooperation
could be developed at Community level in order to promote music in all its forms .

The Commission is now actively preparing for the programmes which will be implemented in 1998 . On
26 February 1997, for example, the Commission proposed joint organization of a large-scale meeting between
professionals in the field and the relevant Parliamentary Committee, to be held during the summer of this year .

(') OJ L 99, 20.4.1996 .

( 2 ) OJ C 298, 9.10.1996 .

( 97 / C 217 / 278 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0401 / 97

by Nikitas Kaklamanis ( UPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : Low compensation rates for exporters of fresh fruit and vegetables

According to Greek press reports, Greek exporters of fresh produce will receive less than DR 10 per kilo in
respect of 1996, which will be paid in two instalments .

This special compensation is paid in respect of fruit and vegetables exports to the EU countries and is intended to
offset the increase in transport costs owing to the war in the former Yugoslavia . This compensation is
exceptionally low, and does little to defray the financial cost borne by Greek exporters and transport companies
due the war which lasted for over 4 years in that country .

Will the Commission specify the exact amounts of money allocated to Greece as special compensation for
exporters, and say whether it intends to provide any additional aid to offset the financial losses they have incurred
as far as possible, and the loss of competitiveness of Greek fruit and vegetables ?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 13 March 1997 )

Council Regulation ( EC ) No 1600 / 96 of 30 July 1996 amending Regulation ( EEC ) No 3438 / 92 laying down
special measures for the transport of certain fresh fruit and vegetables originating in Greece as regards the period
of application (') extends to the whole of 1996 the special aid measures for the transport of fresh fruit and
vegetables despatched from Greece to the other Member States, with the exception of Italy, Spain and Portugal .

No C 217 / 178 . EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

Article 3 of Commission Regulation ( EC ) No 2133 / 96 of 6 November 1996 on detailed rules for the application
of Regulation ( EEC ) No 3438 / 92 of the Council laying down special measures for the transport of certain fresh
fruit and vegetables originating in Greece and dispatched in 1996 ( 2 ) fixes the temporary special allowance at
ECU 3.21 per 100 kilograms for consignments between 1 January 1996 and 17 October 1996, payment being
made in two instalments . The first instalment amounts to 60%, i.e. ECU 1.926 per 100 kilograms or
approximately GRD 6 per kilogram . The payment of the second instalment must occur no later than 1 5 October

1997 . In the case of consignments between 18 October 1996 and 31 December 1996, the temporary special
allowance is fixed at ECU 2.76 per 100 kilograms .

Should the quantity of 175 000 tonnes for the first period and 41 000 tonnes for the second period be exceeded,
the respective allowances are decreased in proportion to the overrun . Since consignors have 6 months in which to
submit their applications, the final amounts are not yet known so the total amount of temporary special
allowances cannot yet be calculated .

The Commission therefore regrets that it cannot yet provide the Honourable Member with an exact figure for the
amount of temporary special allowances . In any event, it does not intend to grant consignors further aid . This
would be contrary to Article 2(2 ) of Council Regulation ( EC ) No 3438 / 92 of 23 November 1992 laying down
special measures for the transport of certain fresh fruit and vegetables originating in Greece ( 3 ), under which the
temporary special allowance is to be tailed off . The Commission would also like to remind the Honourable
Member in this regard that the trans    - Yugoslav road ( Belgrade-Zagreb ) has re-opened to transit traffic since the
end of hostilities in the region and the lifting of the embargo on Serbia and Montenegro ( at the end of 1995 ).

(') OJ L 206, 16.08.1996 .
( 2 ) OJ L 285, 7.11.1996 .
(') OJ L 350, 1.12.1992 .

( 97 / C 217 / 279 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0404 / 97

by Katerina Daskalaki ( UPE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : Monuments of Knossos in danger of collapsing

The archaeological site of Knossos, the very cradle of European culture, is under threat owing to sudden changes
in temperature, frosts, strong winds and humidity which are constantly causing cracks and subsidence among the
finds and the monuments . The situation is aggravated by the vast number of visitors and farming in the vicinity
which cause further humidity .

Given the under-funding and lack of material and technical resources of the local archaeological services, will
the Commission back a study to record and repair the damage and finance the recruitment of suitable technical
staff and restoration work ?

Answer given by Mr Oreia on behalf of the Commission

( 17 March 1997 )

The Commission appreciates very much the interest of the Honourable Member in the situation of the Knossos
monuments which are, undoubtedly, one of the most important archaeological sites in Europe .

In the spirit of Article 1 28 of the EC Treaty, the Commission has in the last few years supported actions which
aim to preserve and enhance Europe 's cultural heritage through activities of cooperation at European level .
Recently and awaiting the final adoption of the proposed programme Raphael, the Commission has channelled
its attention and support in the field through the pre-Raphael pilot actions .

This year, given that the Raphael programme is not, as yet, approved, the Commission intends to launch similar
pilot actions which will be published in the course of the next few weeks .

17 . 7 . 97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 179

In this context, the Commission would gladly consider a request from the Greek authorities about the Knossos
monuments, provided of course that it meets the requirements of this year 's pilot action . To this effect, the
Commission will forward the relevant call for proposals to the national authorities as soon as it becomes
available .

( 97 / C 217 / 280 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0407 / 97

by Arthur Newens ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : EU funding for population and reproductive health in the light of ICPD

Before the Cairo Conference on Population and Development, the EU committed itself to increase funding for
population-related projects to ECU 300 million by the year 2000 ( Commission Communication ( COM(94)100 ).

Is the EU on track to meet this target of ECU 300 million by the year 2000 ?

How will this increase be implemented in the years 1997-2000 ?

Answer given by Mr Marin on behalf of the Commission

( 12 March 1997 )

The Community has already reached its target to commit 300 MECU by the year 2000 for support to population
and reproductive health in line with the objectives set out in the programme of action of the international
conference on population and development . By the year 2000 it is likely that support to population and
reproductive health programmes will substantially exceed this target .

In 1995 the Commission committed approximately 45 MECU . In 1996 the commitments in Asia alone have
reached 230 MECU . There has also been substantial support in Latin America and the Mediterranean . In addition
to these amounts European development fund ( EDF ) money has been committed to assist African, Carribbean
and Pacific countries both in the field of SDT / HIV / AIDS and in health sector support which includes the
integration of family planning components in basic health services at primary level . Specific projects amount to a
total of 15 MECU for SDT / HIV / AIDS and 14.8 MECU for family planning committed in 1995 / 1996 under EDF .

These increases in funding for population and reproductive health efforts around the world will be implemented
between 1997 and 2000 through the various programmes that have been established . In Asia, for example, a
substantial programme of support to the health and family welfare sector in India ( 200 MECU ); a women 's health
and safe-motherhood programme in the Philippines ( 19 MECU ) and the Asia initiative on reproductive health
( 25 MECU ) have all been approved in 1995 / 1996 . The latter is an example of how the Commission has
significantly increased its strategic and actual cooperation with the United Nations population fund ( UNFPA )
since the Cairo conference .

Small pilot and innovative population and reproductive health projects are also being established in several
countries in Asia, Latin America and the Mediterranean under a special budget line (7 MECU in 1996 ). In
addition a total of 30 MECU has been committed in 1995 / 1996 under a specific AIDS budget line to support
interventions at international, regional and national level for developing countries .

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 28 1 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0415 / 97

by Christa Randzio-Plath ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : Participation by the Commission at the G7 finance meeting on 8 February 1997

Can the Commission confirm that it has not been invited to take part in the G7 finance meeting in Berlin on
8 February 1997, at which the Euro will be discussed ?

No C 217 / 180 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

If this is the case, how can the Commission ensure that Community bodies will be able to take part in
international fneetings to discuss the international dimension of the Euro, particularly with regard to
implementation of Article 109 of the EC Treaty (') during the third phase of EMU and with regard to
strengthening international monetary cooperation ?

(') Determination of the rate of the Euro in relation to non-Community currencies .

Answer given by Mr De Silguy on behalf of the Commission

( 14 March 1997 )

It is correct that, despite its express request, the Commission was not invited to take part in the G7 finance
meeting on 8 February, which brought together the finance ministers and central bank governors of the seven
leading industrialized countries .

It should be pointed out, however, that the agenda for the meeting did not specifically contain any item relating to
the euro . No more than a brief discussion took place to inform the G7 members of the results of the Dublin
European Council .

It was though noted in the minutes of the Ecofin Council meeting on 27 January that the Commission 's absence
could under no circumstances constitute a precedent . The Presidency acknowledged, among other things, that
any formal discussion within the G7 of the external aspects of the euro would have to be held in the presence of
the Presidency itself, the Commission and the European Monetary Institute .

Article 109 of the EC Treaty, and in particular paragraph 4, which will be applicable as of 1 January 1999,
provides the reference framework for the decisions that will be taken regarding Community representation at
international level following the introduction of the euro . The Commission is currently examining how this
Article can be applied and will present proposals in due course .

( 97 / C 217 / 282 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0416 / 97

by Riccardo Nencini ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 13 February 1997 )

Subject : Stolen works of art

There have been many thefts of works of art throughout the European Community and many of these stolen
works are subsequently purchased by museums and other institutions . In Italy alone 2 108 valuable works of art
were stolen in 1996 .

Given that there is specific legislation dealing with this subject, does the Commission not agree that it should :

1 . Ascertain which Member States have not yet transposed this legislation ?

2 . Urge the Member States to make speedy arrangements for cataloguing their works of art as a prerequisite for
the application of this legislation ?

3 . Propose that an agreement on the theft and illegal export of works of art be drawn up with non-EU countries ?

Answer given by Mr Monti on behalf of the Commission

( 18 March 1997 )

1 . Six Member States ( Belgium, Germany, Greece, Italy, Luxembourg and Austria ) have not yet notified the
Commission of their respective national measures implementing Council Directive 93 / 7 / EEC of 15 March 1993
on the return of cultural objects unlawfully removed from the territory of a Member State (')• Infringement
proceedings have been instituted against them .

2 . Pursuant to, and within the limits of, Article 36 of the EC Treaty, it is for each Member State to determine
what its national treasures are, to catalogue them and to establish arrangements for protecting them . The
aforementioned Directive and Council Regulation ( EEC ) No 3911 / 92 of 9 December 1992 on the export of
cultural goods ( 2 ) do not replace but complement these national protection arrangements .

17 . 7 . 97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 181

3 . All the Member States took part in the negotiations which culminated in the adoption, on 24 June 1995 in
Rome, of the Unidroit Convention on the international return of stolen or illegally exported cultural objects .
According to the information available to the Commission, 22 countries, including five Member States ( France,
Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal and Finland ) have already signed this Convention .

(') OJ L 74, 27.3.1993 .
( : ) OJ L 395, 31.12.1992 .

( 97 / C 217 / 283 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0420 / 97

by Josu Imaz San Miguel ( PPE ) to the Commission

(7 February 1997 )

Subject : Inclusion of a renovation programme for the Bay of Pasaia ( Basque Country ) in the Community

URBAN initiative

The municipalities of the San Sebastian Metropolitan District have submitted a strategic urban renovation
programme for the Bay of Pasaia . This is a heavily built-up area of 246 000 inhabitants suffering from severe
socio-economic problems, as reflected in its unemployment rate of 22.6% . The programme in question involves
overall investment of PTA 2 860 million, which would be of considerable benefit in helping to regenerate this
deprived neighbourhood .

Moreover, the area around the Bay of Pasaia is one in which the urban fabric has deteriorated and this, together
with high levels of pollution and social tensions, make it one of the priority areas for action in accordance with
the criteria set out in the guidelines laid down in Communication 94 / C 1 80 / 02 on the URBAN initiative . It should
also be pointed out that the area is included in Objective 2 under the Structural Funds and also forms part of the
cross-border conurbation around the San Sebastian-Bayonne highway .

The municipalities of the San Sebastian Metropolitan District submitted the programme to the Spanish
Government which did not, however, include it in the list of proposed projects submitted to the Commission .
Moreover, this is the second consecutive appeal as regards this project and the Spanish Government 's attitude is
still unchanged .

Does the Commission know why the Spanish Government has not included the strategic programme for the Bay
of Pasaia in the list of projects sent to it ?

Does the Commission consider that there are objective reasons for this decision based on the selection criteria for
the URBAN programmes ?

Does the Commission believe that an urban renovation project along the lines set out in the strategic programme
for the Bay of Pasaia can help improve the social tensions experienced in the district in question ?

Answer given by Mrs Wulf-Mathies on behalf of the Commission

( 27 February 1997 )

The Commission has allocated 77.6 MECU to Spain for the extension of the Urban Community initiative .
Priority has been given to cities in objective 1 regions, which receive 56.2 MECU of this budget . 21 .4 MECU is
allocated to cities outside objective 1 regions .

It is clear that in these circumstances the Spanish authorities could only present a limited number of cities to the
Commission . The choice of the individual cities is the responsibility of the relevant authorities in the Member
State . The Honourable Member should therefore direct his specific questions to the Spanish authorities . The role
of the Commission is to ensure that the urban areas proposed by a Member State meet the criteria defined in the
guidelines for the Urban Community initiative (').

(') OJ C 200 of 10.7.96 .

No C 217 / 182 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

( 97 / C 217 / 284 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0424 / 97

by Miguel Arias Canete ( PPE ) to the Commission

(7 February 1997 )

Subject : Penalties in the oilseed sector for the 1996-1997 marketing year

Can the Commission explain the formula used to determine the penalties fixed by the Management Committee
for oilseeds ( 5% with respect to prices ) for the 1996-1997 marketing year ?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 25 February 1997 )

The Commission calculates the final regional reference amount on the basis of the observed reference price of oil
seeds . The observed reference price of oil seeds, which represents the average price recorded on the markets
during the 1996 / 97 marketing year, was assessed at ECU 223.551 per tonne . This observed reference price was
calculated on the basis of the offers and prices reported by the Member States in accordance with Commission
Regulation ( EC ) No 3405 / 93 of 13 December 1993 laying down detailed rules under Council Regulation ( EEC )
No 1765 / 92 as regards the reporting of market prices and offers by certain Member States and the subsequent
assessment by the Commission of the observed reference price of oil seeds (').

The difference between the observed reference price and the projected reference price ( ECU 196.80 per tonne )
fixed in Article 5(l)(a ) of Council Regulation ( EEC ) No 1765 / 92 ( 2 ) is 13.593% . Taking account of the 8%
margin, Article 5 of Regulation ( EEC ) No 1765 / 92 therefore requires the projected level of compensatory
payments to be reduced by 5% .

(') OJ L 310, 14.12.1993 .
( 2 ) OJ L 181, 1.7.1992 .

( 97 / C 217 / 285 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0426 / 97

by María Sornosa Martinez ( GUE / NGL ), Angela Sierra González ( GUE / NGL )

and Sergio Ribeiro ( GUE / NGL ) to the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Subject : Situation of women in East Timor

The critical situation which has existed in East Timor for 21 years is still continuing . Article 2(5 ) of Council
common position 96 / 407 / CFSP, (') adopted in June 1996, explicitly states that the Union '[ will support ] all
appropriate action with the objective of generally strengthening respect for human rights in East Timor and
substantially improving the situation of its people, by means of the resources available to the European Union
and aid for action by NGOs '.

Women are suffering most grievously as a result of the prevailing conditions, not only because they have become
refugees, but also because they are falling victim to rape and abuses at the hands of the occupying forces .

1 . What steps have been taken to date to implement the points set out in the common position ?

2 . Has financial aid been granted to promote respect for human rights in East Timor ?

3 . Has the Commission considered whether any special measures should be taken to deal with the situation of
women ?

4 . Will the Commission intensify contacts with the Office of the Permanent Representative responsible for East
Timor so as to enable any future measures to be targeted more effectively ?

(') OJ L 168, 6.7.1996, p . 2 .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 183

Answer given by Mr Mann on behalf of the Commission

( 13 March 1997 )

The Commission is currently examining possible actions in East Timor with a view to improving the situation of
its people .

Such actions will relate to the population of the territory in general but will certainly take into account the
situation of women .

A representative from East Timor visited the Commission in January 1997 .

( 97 / C 217 / 286 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0427 / 97

by Magda Aelvoet ( V ) and Gianni Tamino ( V ) to the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Subject : EU aid to the ' CARAPAX Centre

Under the MEDSPA programme the Commission supported an initiative to protect tortoises, taken by the

' RANA ' foundation, which is active in a number of Member states . As part of the same programme the
' CARAPAX ' leisure centre was set up near Massa Marittima ( Province of Grosseto, Tuscany Region ). This
centre has expanded over the years, becoming one of the major tourist attractions in the area, with more than
20 000 visitors each year . On account of its recognized and valuable work, it has continued to receive funds from
the European Union, through Regulation 2052 / 88 (') and the LIFE programme, MEDSPA 's successor .

Unfortunately, serious problems have recently arisen in relations with the competent local authorities, such as the
Montana council and the Tuscany Regional Council . Those responsible for administering the . CARAPAX Centre
are apparently being prevented from using Community funds for the purposes for which they were allocated . For
instance, opinions on approval of old buildings restored with funds under Reg . 2052 / 88 are repeatedly being
delayed . Approval has not yet been granted despite information to the contrary being sent by the Region to the
EU .

Is the Commission aware of this ?

Does the Commission still consider it useful to support the above programme ? If so, what steps does it intend to
take to ensure that its support is implemented efficiently ?

(') OJ L 185, 15.7.1988, p . 9 .

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 19 March 1997 )

The Commission has always taken a great interest in the Carapax project, which was expressly identified in the

1991-93 Objective 5(b ) multifund operational programme for Tuscany .

The project involved the restoration of an area as a natural habitat for tortoises where they could be bred and
studied, and the renovation of certain central buildings to house the laboratories, administrative offices, records
and a visitor centre .

The regional government decided to grant the project approximately LIT 750 million, 40% of which was to be
Community funded .

The project has been completed and on 7 February 1997 those responsible for checking the conformity of the
work cleared eligible expenditure of approximately LIT 724 million, i.e. approximately 97% .

The Commission therefore feels that the Honourable Members ' concerns have been overtaken by events .

No C 217 / 184 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17.7.97

( 97 / C 217 / 287 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0429 / 97

by Gianni Tamino ( V ) to the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Subject : Merger of the ' Banca Popolare di Sassari ' and the ' Banca di Sassari Spa '

At its extraordinary general meeting of 25 April 1993, the ' Banca Popolare di Sassari ' a cooperative company,
decided to merge by incorporation with the ' Banca di Sassari Spa ', controlled by the ' Banco di Sardegna ',
without being informed of the economic accounts for 1991 ( losses of over LIT 44 billion ) and 1992 ( losses of
over LIT 144 billion ) even though     - the shareholders had requested them . These accounts have not yet been
published . As a result of this merger, more than 22 000 shareholders lost approximately LIT 500 billion
( devaluation of their shares ), in other words all the savings they had been able to make as a result of years of hard
work . Their decision to accept the merger was influenced by statements by the Banco di Sardegna management,
which had been published in the local press, that the only alternative would be bankruptcy . However, the Banca
d'ltalia which, despite the negative opinion of the anti-trust commission, was favourable to the merger, could
have granted an extension to the management by trustee of the Banca Popolare di Sassari ( Article 27(2 ) of Decree
Law 481 / 92 ), in order to obtain more favourable evaluations and offers from other banks ( Monte dei Paschi,
Cariplo, etc .).

The above developments have led to a concentration of bank market shares in Sardinia in the hands of the Banco
di Sardegna ( 42% Banca di Sassari plus 13% Banca Popolare di Sassari ), placing it in a dominant position .

Does the Commission agree that the decision to merge the Banca Popolare di Sassari with the Banca di Sassari
Spa by incorporation was contrary to Community legislation on competition, in particular Articles 85 and 86 of
the EEC Treaty ( acquisition of dominant position, uncontrolled mergers, etc .) and on company law ?

Answer given by Mr Van Miert on behalf of the Commission

( 13 March 1997 )

As regards mergers, the sole powers to act which the Commission possesses are those laid down in Council
Regulation ( EEC ) No 4064 / 89 on the control of concentrations between undertakings ('). The Regulation
introduces a criterion for the share-out of powers as between the Commission and the national competition
authorities in the merger control sphere, with the Community rules applying in cases where, on the basis of
turnover thresholds specified in Article 1 of the Regulation, the merger has a Community dimension

When it was notified, the operation in question did not fall within the scope of the Regulation, with the result that
the assessment of it was a matter exclusively for the Italian authorities in accordance with the competition rules
laid down in the national legislation in force ( Law No 287 of 10 October 1990 ).

Accordingly, the Commission is not empowered in the case at issue to adopt any measure whatsoever since
mergers which do not meet the thresholds for triggering application of the Regulation fall within the exclusive
remit of the Member State concerned .

( ) OJ L 395, 30.12.1989 .

( 97 / C 217 / 288 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0432 / 97

by Katerina Daskalaki ( UPE ) to the Commission

(7 February 1997 )

Subject : Operational programme for education ( sub-programmes 3 and 4 )

The Greek university system is facing enormous problems which can only be solved by institutional and
structural changes which will require very substantial financial aid .

Given this situation, can the Commission provide information concerning the take-up rates for appropriations set
aside in sub-programmes 3 and 4 ( higher education and modernization of the administration of education ) within
the framework of the operational programme for education and initial vocational training, which forms part of
the CSF for structural interventions in Greece ( Objective I ) and was approved by the Commission on 29 July

1994 for the period from 1 January 1994 to 31 December 1999 ?

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 185

( 97 / C 217 / 289 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0453 / 97

by Mihail Papayannakis ( GUE / NGL ) to the Commission

(7 February 1997 )

Subject : Operational programme for education

The operational programme for education and initial training incorporated in the CSF for Objective 1 structural
interventions in Greece was adopted by the Commission by decision of 29 July 1994 for the period running from

1 January 1994 to 31 December 1999 .

The contribution of the ESF and ERDF structural funds amounts to ECU 1 385 700 000 .

In view of the crisis facing education in Greece, and bearing in mind the fact that the implementation of the
operational programme for education could contribute to securing the smooth functioning of the educational
system, improving the services provided and, possibly, overcoming the crisis, will the Commission give the
take-up rate so far for sub-programme 1 ( General and Technical Education ) and the four basic measures which
include :

Measure 1 : reorganisation of educational programmes

Measure 2 : uniform secondary education

Measure 3 : training for teachers and other support activities

Measure 4 : infrastructure — equipment ?

Joint answer

to Written Questions P-0432 / 97 and P-0453 / 97
given by Mr Flynn on behalf of the Commission

( 26 March 1997 )

The aim of the ' Education and initial vocational training ' is to strengthen, modernise and improve the Greek
education system . It includes measures covering almost the entire spectrum of education and initial vocational
training, with particular emphasis on secondary education, higher education ( technical / vocational and
university ), initial vocational training, structural measures and education system administration .

The take-up rate for Community appropriations during the first three years of programme implementation has
been relatively low, amounting to approximately 18.5% of the allocation for the programme as a whole .

Operation Title Fund 1994 Take-up / 1995 rate / 1996

1 Reform of education programmes ESF 13.8 %

2 Integrated secondary schools ESF 1.2 %

3 Teacher training and other measures ESF 14.8 %

4 Infrastructure and equipment ERDF 23.1 %

Sub-programmes 3 and 4 more specifically cover higher education, and modernisation of education
administration and technical assistance respectively . The take-up rates for appropriations under the European
Social Fund ( ESF ) and European Regional Development Fund ( ERDF ) in 1994 / 1995 and 1996 ( estimate ) are as
follows :

Sub-programme 3 : higher education

ESF : 11.4%

ERDF : 18.8%

Sub-programme 4 : modernisation of education administration and technical assistance

ESF : 6.4%

ERDF : 2.2%

Appropriations not used in previous years have been carried forward to the following tranches ( 1997, 1998 and

1999 ). This means that the amounts to be consumed in the next three years are very substantial .

No C 217 / 186 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

As the majority of programme measures have now been analysed, scheduled and adopted by the programme
monitoring committee, the Commission feels and hopes that implementation will improve significantly as from

1997 . Nevertheless, it is clear that the Member State must continue and intensify its efforts in all areas ( definition
of measures and actions at project level, development of management, payment and monitoring procedures ).

( 97 / C 217 / 290 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0434 / 97

by Stamslaw Tillich ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Subject : Participation of CEECs in EU programmes

In which EU programmes do the countries of Central and Eastern Europe participate ( apart from PHARE )? Can
the Commission state how much money has been spent for this purpose ?

Answer given by Mr Van den Broek on behalf of the Commission

( 10 March 1997 )

Europe agreements, or the additional protocols to them, on the involvement of central European countries in
Community programmes mention the fields in which they may participate in Community framework
programmes, specific programmes, projects or other operations .

To date the countries concerned participate in some projects under specific programmes in the Community 's
fourth framework programme in the field of research and technological development .

Draft decisions of Association Councils ( with the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Romania and Slovakia ),
now in preparation, lay down the terms and practical procedures for them to participate in the Leonardo da Vinci,
Socrates and Youth for Europe programmes .

Preparatory discussions have taken place, or are planned, with a view to associated central European countries
participating from 1998 in a number of other programmes in the fields of audiovisual media ( Media ), culture
( Kaleidoscope, Ariane and Raphael ), the environment ( Life ), energy ( Save ), small and medium-sized enterprises
( third multiannual small and medium-sized enterprise programme ), social policy and health .

The countries concerned will pay their own way, in accordance with Europe agreements or additional protocols .
Most of them have informed the Commission that they intend to use part of their Phare allocation to finance their
contribution .

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 29 1 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0436 / 97

by Stanislaw Tilhch ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Subject : Financial support for Saxony during the period 1994-1996

1 . ' Can the Commission state what amounts of money flowed into what projects in Saxony, divided up into
those under programmes or funds requiring the provision of matching funds from regional, Federal or local
budgets and those under programmes on funds which do not need to activate any matching funds from public

sector budgets in order to be paid .

2 . What level of EU funds has Saxony called upon in comparison to all other Federal Lander ?

Answer given by Mr Santer on behalf of the Commission

( 11 April 1997 )

The Commission is collecting the information it needs to answer the question . It will communicate its findings as
soon as possible .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 187

( 97 / C 217 / 292 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0437 / 97,

by Nikitas Kaklamams ( UPE ) to the Commission

( 19 February J 997 )

Subject : Turkish settlement of Cyprus

According to reports in the Greek and Turkish Cypriot press, the Turkish Government is continuing with
undiminished intensity to settle Turks originating mainly from Anatolia and Kurdistan in the occupied territories
of northern Cyprus . There are now almost as many settlers as Turkish Cypriots, and the former will soon
constitute a majority .

The population of the illegal Cypriot pseudo-state is approximately 198 000, less than half of whom are natives
of the island, without counting the 35 000 soldiers stationed in the occupied territories .

It should be pointed out that in 1960 ( when the last official census was held ) the Turkish Cypriot population
numbered 104 942, while before the Turkish invasion it was approximately 120 000 .

Will the Commission say what action it has taken to deal with this problem that has been looming for years, and
what immediate steps it intends to take to prevent a reversal of the population balance on the island, which
endangers the safety of the entire region and undermines attempts to solve the Cyprus problem, bearing in mind
that the lack of response by the EU so far stands in sharp contrast to the zeal shown by some EU Member States in
other instances ?

Answer given by Mr Van den Broek on behalf of the Commission

( 19 March 1997 )

The Commission is aware of the issue raised by the Honourable Member, which is not, however, within its
jurisdiction . The matter, moreover, was referred to in the reports of the Secretary General of the United Nations

on his mission of good offices to Cyprus and mentioned in the report of the European Observer on the Cyprus
problem .

The Commission is of the opinion that the problem should be addressed in the framework of intra-communal
discussions and confirms its commitment to assist the United Nations ' efforts to achieve a political settlement of
the Cyprus question .

( 97 / C 217 / 293 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0438 / 97

by Heidi Hautala ( V ) to the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Subject : Overlogging at Yamdena island

Is the Commission aware of the possible threat of overlogging on the island of Yamdena in the Moluccan
archipelago ( Indonesia )?

Has the Commission approached the Indonesian Government in any way to express its concern over the possible
damaging impact for the people living on Yamdena and their environment ?

In the light of the Commission 's forestry programme in Indonesia, how does it seek to influence ecologically
unacceptable logging in any of the other regions of the country where it is not ( yet ) active ?

How does the Commission monitor in general the situation of the Indonesian forests, and in particular the
situation of the forest peoples ?

Answer given by Mr Mann on behalf of the Commission

(7 March 1997 )

The Commission possesses some general information on Yamdena Island, and is examining the situation in the
context of its further strategy for cooperation with Indonesia, which is strongly linked to the environmenent .

No C 217 / 188 EN Official Journal ol the European Communities 17.7 . 97

The Commission has indeed concentrated its development programme in Indonesia on the forest sector over the
last few years, resulting in a programme with total funding of some 140 MECU at present . The last of the present
phase of projects concerning sustainable management of the production forest, will be tendered shortly and will
then proceed to implementation .

In the context of this programme, a Forest liaison bureau will be set up, to overview the situation and help to
encourage positive forest policies .

( 97 / C 217 / 294 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0439 / 97

by Olivier Dupuis ( ARE ) to the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Subject : Reversing population transfer to the Chittagong Hill Tracts

In the light of Parliament 's comment on budget line B7-3010 ' Economic cooperation with Asian developing
countries ' that part of the budget should be used for the repatriation of Bengali settlers in the Chittagong Hill
Tracts back to the plains, does the Commission already have a plan of action how to implement this ?

How will the Commission select such projects ?

Has the Commission already communicated this comment to the Bangladesh Government and have any
negotiations started between the Commission and the Government of Bangladesh with regard to the
implementation of this proposal ?

Will the Commission in any way involve consultation and participation of the indigenous peoples of the
Chittagong Hill Tracts, in order to select those project proposals that are most beneficial to them ?

Answer given by Mr Mann on behalf of the Commission

( 11 March 1997 )

The political negotiations between the ruling Awami League party, and the delegation of the Shanti Bahini, were
held in Dhaka on 24-27 January 1997 . They took place in a cordial atmosphere and attracted extensive media
coverage, but there was no agreement on the key demands of the Shanti Bahini, to remove Bengali settlers from
the Chittagong Hill Tracts and to secure the land rights of the tribal people . The parties decided to reconvene on

12 March 1997 .

The Commission, through its delegation, is monitoring the situation and, following a peaceful political

settlement, will approach the parties to support the implementation of the peace process . This will be done in
close consultation with all concerned, including the indigenous people of the Chittagong Hill Tracts . At present,
however, it is still premature to consider details of project preparation and implementation in the Chittagong Hill
Tracts as the above-mentioned bilateral negotiations continue and the political and security conditions are not
favourable to external assistance .

( 97 / C 217 / 295 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0440 / 97

by Anita Pollack ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Subject : Implementing Directive 95 / 29 / EEC on live transport of animals

Is the Commission aware that eight Member States including the UK have not met the deadline for introducing
national legsilation under Directive 95 / 29 / EEC (') and that those Member States who have met the deadline have
made different interpretations of the maximum journey times allowed before a rest period is due ?

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 189

What action will be taken to ensure prompt and uniform implementation of this directive ?

(') OJ L 148, 30.6.1995, p . 52 .

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 11 March 1997 )

Most Member States have not yet communicated the text of their national measures implementing Directive
95 / 29 / EC concerning the protection of animals during transport ('). Infringement proceedings will be opened
against those Member States which have not met the deadline .

The rules for maximum journey times, including feeding, watering and resting intervals, should have been
applied by the Member States as from 1 January 1997 . The Commission is not aware of differences in
interpretation of the provisions governing maximum journey times except in the case of transport operations
involving imports from third countries where at least one Member State claims that the time spent travelling
before arrival at the Community frontier should not be taken into account . The Commission will intervene with
the Member States, where necessary, to ensure uniform interpretation of the Directive .

(') OJ L 148, 30.6.1995 .

( 97 / C 217 / 296 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0441 / 97

by Anita Pollack ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Subject : Staff working on forests in DG VIII

How can the Commission hope to manage its global forestry programme without sufficient staff resources in
DG VIII ? Will the Commission itemize exactly how many staff of what grade are dedicated to forest work in
DG VIII ?

Answer given by Mr Pinheiro on behalf of the Commission

( 20 March 1997 )

The staff concerned with forestry in DG 8 ( the development directorate general ) is composed of one professional
( A-grade ) detached national expert ( DNE ) and one assistant ( B-grade ). When the current DNE incumbent leaves
the Commission in just over two years, it is hoped that the post will be transformed into a permanent one .

The overall human resources available in DG 8 and in Commission delegations in the African, Caribbean and
Pacific countries have decreased since 1 996 . In future the Commission will have to do more with less, and rely on
internal redeployment to meet the new priorities which have emerged . This is not an easy task, since, as the
Parliament has recognised, DG 8 is understaffed in relation to other aid donors .

In order to increase its efficiency, DG 8 cooperates closely with the Member States, particularly through the
European tropical forestry advisers group . An example is the preparation of the guidelines for forest sector
development cooperation, and this collaborative approach will continue the training phase of the guidelines .
DG 8 also cooperates with other Commission services, such as for example in the Commission participation in
the intergovernmental panel on forests, where a number of services pool their forestry expertise to ensure an
active Commission presence .

No C 217 / 190 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

( 97 / C 217 / 297 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0443 / 97

by Anita Pollack ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Subject : Radioactive lobsters

Has the EU imposed any restrictions on the marketing of lobsters originating near Sellafield in Cumbria where
tests have shown levels of the radioactive isotope technetium — 99, or is it considering any action related to this
problem ?

Answer given by Mrs Bjerregaard on behalf of the Commission

(1 April 1997 )

The Commission gives the highest priority to protection of the public, including, in particular, food safety and
protection of the consumer . However, there are no Community restrictions specific to the marketing of lobsters
originating near Sellafield, Cumbria, nor is the Commission presently considering any action to this end for the
reasons given below .

Provisions for protection against the hazards from ionising radiation are laid down in the Community basic safety
standards directives . For annual exposure of members of the public, a limit of one millisievert is stipulated in the
Directive which was adopted in 1996 (') and which Member States shall bring into force by 13 May 2000 . The
present limit is 5 millisieverts, given in the 1980 Directive ( 2 ).

Information received by the Commission indicates that while the operation of the Sellafield enhanced actinide
removal plant has reduced potentially more significant discharges of alpha-emitters in liquid discharges from the
Sellafield site, it has also resulted in higher levels of technetium-99 in such discharges and, hence, in measured
values in lobsters collected from the area . However, the annual limit for technetium-99 discharged with the liquid
effluent from the Sellafield site has not been exceeded . Moreover, for 1995, when discharge of technetium-99
was close to the authorised annual limit, the United Kingdom authorities estimate that the maximum annual
exposure to local seafood consumers from technetium-99 in crustaceans, including lobsters, was less than
0.02 millisieverts . There is no evidence that the limits for annual public exposure, given above, could be
exceeded in the present case .

The Commission has no grounds, therefore, for action concerning the marketing of lobsters originating near
Sellafield . However, the Commission is aware of public concern and will continue to take an interest in the

matter .

(') Council Directive 96 / 29 / Euratoni of 13 May 1996, laying down basic safety standards for the protection of the health of workers and the
general public against the dangers arising from ionising radiation, OJ L 159, 29.6.1996 .
( 2 ) Council Directive 80 / 836 / Euratom of 15.7.1980 — OJ L 246, 17.9.1980, as amended by Council Directive 84 / 467 / Euratom of 3.9.1984 —
OJ L 265, 5.10.1984, laying down basic safety standards for the protection of the health of workers and the general public against the
dangers arising from ionising radiation .

( 97 / C 217 / 298 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0446 / 97

by Joaquin Siso Cruellas ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Subject : Implications of the Bosman judgment

The vice-president of the German Football Federation, Mr G. Mayer-Vorfelder, has told Chancellor Kohl of the
great concern felt by the sporting world at the implications of the Bosman judgment of the Court of Justice .
According to Mr Mayer-Vorfelder, many clubs are on the verge of bankruptcy and the judgment has only
benefited a small number of major stars and clubs with virtually unlimited resources . He held politicians
responsible for this situation, and certain provisions of the EU Treaty should be amended so as to limit the
opportunities for participating in the ' national ' events of other Member States .

What is the Commission 's view of Mr Mayer-Vorfelder ' s comments ?

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 191

Answer given by Mr Van Miert on behalf of the Commission

( 14 March 1997 )

Freedom of movement for workers is a basic Community principle and one that is essential to completion of the
single market . The judgment delivered by the Court of Justice in the Bosman case is the logical consequence of
the application of that principle to football players, who are workers .

Clearly, an effort will be required of the sporting world in adapting to the new conditions created by the Bosman
judgment . The main difficulties will be for small clubs that have invested in the training of young players . While

affirming its intention to ensure that the judgment is strictly complied with, the Commission has accordingly also
been prepared to help sporting organizations find an alternative system that is compatible with the rules laid
down in the Treaty . The Court held that the payment of transfer, training or development fees was not an
appropriate means of achieving the aims of maintaining a balance between clubs by preserving a certain degree
of equality and uncertainty as to results and of encouraging the recruitment and training of young players . The
Court stressed that these legitimate aims could be achieved by less restrictive means .

An appropriate means would be the use of joint funds that could be financed by some of the revenue from the sale
of broadcasting rights to sporting events . At national level, such funds could be brought in gradually pending the
total abolition of national transfer systems .

In conclusion, although sport has well-established specific characteristics, it cannot, as far as its economic aspect
is concerned, be excluded from application of the rules laid down in the Treaty .

( 97 / C 217 / 299 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0450 / 97

by Luciano Vecchi ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Subject : Damaging consequences for Community citizens owing to the delay in implementing Regulation

( EEC ) No 2080 / 92 in certain Italian regions

Some Italian regions have been slow to implement Regulation ( EEC ) No 2080 / 92, which provides for aid for
afforestation of farm land (').

There have been several cases in which farmers have applied for funding in the proper way and begun to afforest
their land but have been refused aid because the technical inspections were conducted only after a lengthy delay
and hence when the areas concerned were no longer bare .

What is the Commission 's opinion of this state of affairs ? How can the farmers affected make good the losses
they have incurred through no fault of their own ?

(') OJ L 215, 30.7.1992, p . 96 .

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 11 March 1997 )

Under Article 4 of Regulation 2080 / 92, it is for Member States to implement the aid scheme by means of national
or regional multiannual programmes . Observance of regional administrative procedures for authorizing
afforestation must therefore be ensured according to the rules of internal administrative law .

However, the Commission is aware of the difficulties which have been encountered in the application of the
Italian regional programmes and it is in the process, in cooperation with the Italian authorities, of improving the
implementation of Regulation 2080 / 92 .

No C 217 / 192 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

( 97 / C 217 / 300 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0452 / 97

by Arie Oostlander ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Subject : Reports on the supply to Iraq of primary products for biological weapons by Netherlands undertakings

in the period 1989-1992

Is the Commission aware of a US Air Force Intelligence report that identifies the Netherlands firm ORVET as the
undertaking that in 1992 supplied anthrax vaccines to Iraq through the UN Food and Agricultural Organization
for use in FAO project OSRO / IRQ / 103 / FIN ?

Is it true that this or another Netherlands undertaking has supplied Iraq with vaccines to protect Iraqi troops
against the poison botulin, a toxic substance that is also used in weapons produced in Iraq, and that this
contravenes international regulations ?

Is it true that in 1989 the Iraqi government purchased from an unknown Netherlands source a fungus that is a
basic primary product for poisons that were produced at the Saddam University in Baghdad and that may well
have been used in waging biological warfare, and that this contravenes international regulations ?

Does the Commission intend to conduct an investigation into the monitoring of exports of primary products that
can be used for both military and civilian purposes, in particular certain agricultural products that can also be
used for the production of chemical and / or biological weapons ?

Answer given by Sir Leon Brittan on behalf of the Commission

( 19 March 1997 )

The Commission has not received the report mentioned and has no knowledge of the supply of anthrax vaccins or
anti-botulinum vaccins to Iraq by the company mentioned or any other Dutch company during the period 1989 —

1992, nor of the supply to the Iraqi government of any mould used in the production of poison . The Dutch
authorities have informed the Commission that they do not have any knowledge of such supplies to Iraq .

With the adoption of Council Regulation ( EC ) No . 3381 / 94 of 19 December 1994 (') setting up a Community
regime for the control of exports of dual usegoods and of Decision 94 / 942 / CFSP of 19 December 1994 ( 2 ) a
Community framework has been created for the control of exports of dual-use goods, including certain products
for agricultural uses, which might also be used for the production of chemical or biological weapons . The list of
products covered by the Community legislation is regularly amended, inter alia in the light of the results of
discussions in the Australia group and of export control aspects related to the entry into force of the Convention
on the prohibition of the development, production, stockpiling and use of chemical weapons and on their
destruction ( CWC ).

With regard to Iraq, the export of products intended strictly for medical purposes is permitted under the United
Nations security council ( UNSC ) embargo against this country . However, Council Regulation ( EC ) No 2465 / 96
of 17 December 1996 ( 3 ) concerning the interruption of economic and financial relations between the
Community and Iraq, which contains the consolidated Community implementation of the UNSC embargo,
requires that such exports take place only after authorization of the Member State of export . This authorization
requirement ( which does not figure in the relevant UNSC Iraq embargo resolutions ) ensures a control on the final
destination of the medical products before export takes place . Resolution 1051 ( 1996 ) of the UNSC requires
notification to the UNSC of export of dual use goods ( including the vaccins mentioned ) to Iraq, even after the
lifting of the embargo .

(') OJ L 367, 31.12.1994 .
( 2 ) OJ L 367, 31.12.1994, last amended by Decision 97 / 100 CFSP ot 20.1.1997, ( see OJ L.34 of 4.2.1997 ).
( 3 ) OJ L 337, 27.12.1996 .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 193

( 97 / C 217 / 301 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0454 / 97

by Konstantinos Hatzidakis ( PPE ) to the Commission

(7 February 1997 )

Subject : Construction of a biological purification plant in Ialysos on Rhodes

Under the CSF for Greece, funds are being provided for a biological purification and sewage project for the City
of Rhodes, which is undoubtedly very important both for the City and the island as a whole . However, in order to
derive maximum benefit from this project, a sewage system should also be constructed in the municipality of
Ialysos which is next to the municipality of Rhodes and belongs to the same ecosystem .

This is a municipality which caters for 25 000 tourists in addition to its permanent population of 1 5 000, which
means that vast amounts of sewage are produced in the peak tourist months .

This sewage can only be properly managed and processed if a sewage system is constructed in the municipality
of Ialysos and connected to the sewage system of the municipality of Rhodes with a joint biological purification
plant .

In view of the above, can the Commission say why the project for a sewage system in the municipality of Ialysos
has not been included among the projects funded by the Cohesion Fund, despite the fact that a comprehensive
study that can be directly implemented has been drawn up, and what specific action it intends to take to promote
this project which will solve a crucial problem facing the inhabitants, enhance the environment and improve the
quality of bathing water, groundwater and drinking water ?

Answer given by Mrs Wulf-Mathies on behalf of the Commission

( 11 March 1997 )

The construction of the biological sewage treatment plant for the town of Rhodes was part-financed by the
Cohesion Fund and not through a Community Support Framework .

It is useful to recall that the Commission examines and, if conditions so justify, approves for part-financing by
the Cohesion Fund projects officially submitted to it by the national authorities concerned, in this case, the Greek
Ministry for Economic Affairs .

The Commission has so far not received any project or technical study from the Greek Government concerning a
sewage system for the town of Ialyssos .

( 97 / C 217 / 302 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0456 / 97

by Nel van Dijk ( V ) to the Commission

( 12 February 1997 )

Subject : Fiscal dumping

Is it true that, according to calculations by the German Government, the latter loses between DM 30 and
60 billion per annum in tax revenue because of ' unfair ' fiscal competition ?

Does the Commission have comparable estimates for other Member States ?

If so, can it give me them ?

Is it possible to say approximately how much tax revenue the EU Member States as a whole forfeit because of
mutual fiscal competition, whether fair or unfair ?

If so, what proportion of this pertains to ( a ) corporation tax, ( b ) taxation of interest on savings deposits, ( c ) other
direct taxation of capital ?

No C 217 / 194 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17.7.97

Answer given by Mr Monti on behalf of the Commission

(7 March 1997 )

The Commission does not have any figures estimating the loss of revenue that may occur in the Member States
due to tax competition .

Consequently, the Commission cannot calculate, even approximately, how much tax Member States may forego
due to fair or unfair tax competition amongst them . Although there is no measure of the overall impact of harmful
tax competition, there are reasons to believe that effective taxation of income from capital has been endangered
by movement of capital between Member States or outside the Community purely for tax purposes .

( 97 / C 217 / 303 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0459 / 97

by Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Subject : MED programmes

In the section on the MED programmes, the Annual Report of the Court of Auditors concerning the financial year

1995 notes that the Union, in pursuing a policy of multilateral cooperation with Mediterranean non-member
countries, has taken economic measures to help the Mediterranean region to grow into an area of prosperity and
political measures aimed at consolidating democracy and regional integration in the above countries . Some of the
activities in question have been carried out on a partnership basis in the form of MED programmes .

The nature of the sweeping powers conferred on the ARTM amounts to nothing short of de facto delegation of
Commission responsibilities to an external body, brought about, moreover, without following the proper
procedure .

Can the Commission say who is to blame for the wrongful delegation of responsibilities to the ARTM and how it
proposes to correct the irregularity ?

Answer given by Mr Marin on behalf of the Commission

( 11 March 1997 )

The first decentralised programmes in the Mediterranean zone were launched in 1992 . They corresponded to a
political priority, consistently supported by the Commission, the Council and the Parliament, to include in the
new Mediterranean policy an element of regional multilateral co-operation and the involvement of civil society .

However, these operations, due to the number of parties involved ( number of networks involved, number of
beneficiaries in each network ) implied the acceptance of a certain risk inherent to this sort of cooperation . Given
the political importance attached by the Parliament and the Council to these operations, the Commission
assumed this risk .

Certain situations arose during the setting up and the experimental phase of programmes . On the basis of the
experience and of the report of the Court of auditors, the Commission took, in October 1995, the decision :

— to freeze immediately all decentralised programmes in the Mediterranean zone and not to renew contracts
with ARTM and the different technical assistance offices ;

— to carry out an evaluation on the impact of the decentralised programmes in the Mediterranean zone ;

— to conduct audits on ARTM and the technical assistance offices ;

— to set up a new management system which would guarantee more efficiency and transparency .

The Commission will inform the Parliament of all results before relaunching the decentralized programmes in
Mediterranean zone .

17 . 7 . 97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 195

( 97 / C 217 / 304 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0461 / 97

by Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Subject : Maximum speed of agricultural or forestry tractors

With reference to the proposal for a European Parliament and Council Directive amending Council Directives
74 / 150 / EEC, 74 / 1 51 / EEC, 74 / 152 / EEC, 74 / 346 / EEC, 74 / 347 / EEC, 75 / 321 / EEC, 75 / 322 / EEC, 76 / 432 / EEC,
76 / 763 / EEC, 77 / 31 1 / EEC, 77 / 537 / EEC, 78 / 764 / EEC, 78 / 933 / EEC, 79 / 532 / EEC, 79 / 533 / EEC, 80 / 720 / EEC,
86 / 297 / EEC, 86 / 415 / EEC and 89 / 173 / EEC relating to the maximum design speed of wheeled agricultural or
forestry tractors ( CC)M(96)0196 ) ('), the proposed amendment concerning the maximum speed limit for
agricultural or forestry tractors is to be welcomed . However, when it next amends the framework Directive, will
the Commission take account of the constant developments in tractor design and use by making explicit
provision to cover tractors with a maximum speed above 40 k.p.h ., naturally on the understanding that such a step
will have to be accompanied by appropriate safety and environmental protection measures ?

(') OJ C 186, 26.6.1996, p . 11 .

Answer given by Mr Bangemann on behalf of the Commission

( 18 March 1997 )

As the Honourable Member says the Commission is aware of the fact that thought should also be given to the
fastest tractors on the market, whose design speed exceeds 40 km / h and those in current use, i.e. those which pull
a trailer or pull or push an implement . All such instances will indeed be examined in the next amendment of the
framework directive .

A working party entitled ' Operational Type Approval ' ( OTA ), comprising representatives of all of the Member
States, has been set up in connection with the revision of the framework directive . That OTA working party must
pass on its conclusions by the end of June 1997 in order that all of the safety and environmental-protection
aspects can be taken into account .

( 91 /C 217 / 305 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0463 / 97

by Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Subject : Air traffic management

With reference to the White Paper entitled ' Air Traffic Management ' ( COM(96)0057 ), the Commission 's
description of the imperfections in Europe 's existing air traffic management system can in general be endorsed .
Furthermore, the system must be improved in order to reduce delays, enhance aviation safety, and harmonize
national management systems . The situation, however, has to be tackled at international level, and the
Commission is right to conclude that Eurocontrol needs to be ' reinvented ' and its legislative power increased .

Will the Commission therefore give more details of its views on the differences between legislative and
operational responsibilities and the role of the bodies called upon to discharge them ? Does it agree that the new
Eurocontrol should be responsible for central flow management, whereas other operational matters should be
dealt with by the national authorities ?

Answer given by Mr Kinnock on behalf of the Commission

( 20 March 1997 )

The Commission 's White Paper on Air Traffic Management ( ATM ), included the proposition that, as a
fundamental principle, the regulatory and service provision functions of ATM should be separated as far as
practicable .

No C 217 / 196 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

In the Commission 's view, certain tasks, such as air traffic flow management and, eventually, airspace
management should properly fall in the sphere of regulation and consequently should be responsibilities of the
Eurocontrol organisation . Other tasks, such as collecting route charges from users, the provision of air traffic
control services at national level, the management of the Maastricht centre ( which provides air traffic control
services for the Benelux countries and Northern Germany ) or running training centres such as Instilux, fall within
the category of service provision . The way in which this principle will actually be applied, however, in the
context of new institutional arrangements for ATM at the European level, is a complicated matter .

The Commission 's proposal — also contained in the White Paper — that the Community should itself become a
member of the new Eurocontrol organisation involves discussions on Community legal competence and its
practical implications . Those discussions are now under way in the Council .

A separate study on the future European institutional arrangements for ATM by the European Civil Aviation
Conference ( ECAC ), representing 35 states, overlaps to a large extent with the Commission 's own ideas . There
are, however, certain key areas — including the separation of functions — where the ECAC approach is, in the
view of the Commission regrettably conservative . A meeting of ECAC ministers on 14 February 1997 decided to
adopt the ECAC strategy, while noting the Commission 's concerns .

In parallel with the current Council debate on Community membership of Eurocontrol, separate discussions on
precisely how the ECAC strategy will be reflected in the revised Eurocontrol convention will allow further
opportunities for the Commission 's concerns on particular points, including the separation of functions, to be
given further attention .

( 97 / C 217 / 306 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0464 / 97

by Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Subject : Signing of the contract to build the Strasbourg Chamber without prior approval

At Parliament 's request, the Court of Auditors has investigated why Parliament 's ground lease of the Strasbourg
Chamber was signed even though the Financial Controller had not given his prior approval .

The Court has concluded that this case constitutes an infringement of the conditions laid down in the Financial
Regulation and Parliament 's internal rules governing the signature of leases in accordance with the Financial
Regulation and the criteria of sound financial management .

How will the Commission prevent any future recurrence of irregularities such as the signing of the contract to
build the Strasbourg Chamber without prior approval ? Furthermore, who can be said to be to blame, and in what
ways might the guilty parties have to be called to account ?

. Answer given by Mr Liikanen on behalf of the Commission

( 12 March 1997 )

The Commission would inform the Honourable Member that this is not a matter on which it has any say . He
should address his question to the appropriate institution .

( 97 / C 217 / 307 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0467 / 97

by Amedeo Amadeo ( NI ) to the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Subject : Pact for employment

With reference to the Commission communication entitled ' Action for Employment in Europe — A Confidence

'
Pact ( COM(96)0485 — C4-0341 / 96 ), the aims of the pact can be endorsed . The seriousness of the crisis triggered
off by long-term unemployment and job shedding is the key point to bear in mind . In view of the

17 . 7 . 97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 197

gravity of the situation, will the Commission ensure that, in addition to adopting the ' pact for employment ', the
next European Council lays down an multi-annual plan setting out specific measures and a binding timetable ?

Answer given by Mr Flynn on behalf of the Commission

( 26 March 1997 )

The Commission feels that the European Council, at its meeting in Dublin in December 1996, took full account of
the seriousness of the employment situation, in particular by associating itself with the content of the joint report
by the Council and the Commission on employment, and by adopting a declaration on employment .

The conclusions of the European Councils since Essen ( December 1994 ), together with the specific
recommendations contained in the joint reports of 1996 and 1997, constitute a programme of action to which the
Member States have committed themselves at the highest level .

The Commission is of the opinion that an appropriate revision of the Treaty, in the context of the
Intergovernmental Conference, would make it possible to reinforce the coordination of Member States '
employment policies around common approaches .

( 97 / C 217 / 308 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0469 / 97

by Mark Watts ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 72 February 1997 )

Subject : Export of live cattle to third countries

Further to Mr Fischler 's answer to Written Question P-4015 / 96 (') given on behalf of the Commission on
20 January 1997, could the Commission say how many live cattle were exported from the EU to third countries in
the last year for which figures are available, and how much was paid out in export refunds in respect of those live
exports ?

(') OJ C 186, 18.6.1997, p . 167 .

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

(5 March 1997 )

In 1995 the Community exported 660,103 live animals to third countries . For the budget year 1995, 16 October

1994 — 15 October 1995, 302 MECU were granted in export subsidies for live animals .

( 97 / C 217 / 309 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0471 / 97

by Nikitas Kaklamanis ( UPE ) to the Commission

( 12 February 1997 )

Subject : Humanitarian aid for the Republika Srpska

I was surprised to learn following a private visit to the Republika Srpska that the Commission is adopting the
same one-sided and biased approach as regards economic aid to the Bosnian Serbs as it did during the war .

I would recall that in a civil war there are no persecutors and victims, winners and losers, only corpses and
destruction .

In view of the fact that I intend to raise the matter in the House, will the Commission say :

1 . What are the precise provisions of the pacification agreement as regards economic aid for the region as a
whole ?

No C 217 / 198 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

2 . How much money has been allocated overall ( to the three population groups ) and how has it been divided
among them ?

3 . Is it true that only 3% of reconstruction aid has been given to the Bosnian Serbs and, if so, does it believe that
this will contribute to the pacification and security of the region ?

4 . How much has been allocated for humanitarian aid ?

5 . Does the Commission understand that, in a case such as this, it has enormous ethical and political
responsibility towards an entire people ?

Answer given by Mr Van den Broek on behalf of the Commission

( 11 March 1997 )

1 . The Dayton or Paris peace agreements assumed that the different entities would work together in peace and
harmony, in order to rebuild an integrated and peaceful country . This principle was confirmed in the London
peace implementation conference in December 1996, where paragraph 4 of the summary conclusions states that :

' while the peace implementation council is committed to the peace process, responsibility for reconciliation lies
with the authorities and citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina, who must progressively take charge of their own
affairs . The Council 's willingness to devote human and financial resources is dependent upon a strengthened
commitment from the authorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina to implementation of the peace agreement '

The steering board of the peace implementation conference has reluctantly had to note that the authorities of
Republika Srpska are not implementing freedom of movement or allowing returns of displaced people and
refugees to their places of origin . It has therefore been decided that economic and reconstruction aid would be
largely blocked until the agreement is implemented as foreseen . No such conditionality applies to humanitarian
aid .

2 . and 4 . Since the begining of the conflict, the Commission has been providing humanitarian assistance to
the victims affected by the war regardless of ethnic or political criteria . The Commission has allocated since then
a total amount of 1 363 MECU to Former Yugoslavia of which 55.6% to the Republic of Bosnia and
Herzegovina . The Commission is unable to make a distinction on the final destination by population groups .

As regards the reconstruction of Bosnia and Herzegovina, 300 MECU have been allocated under the 1996
budget, mainly within the Phare programme and under the specific budget line for reconstruction .

3 . A similar figure has been advanced by the High representative, Mr Bildt . As the representative of the
international community and therefore of the providers of funds, he has encouraged conditional attribution of
development and reconstruction aid to ensure compliance with the spirit of the Dayton or Paris agreements and
the free movement of people .

5 . The Commission makes a clear distinction between humanitarian aid and reconstruction and economic

development aid . The former is distributed without conditions and according to need, not only former
Yugoslavia but throughout the world . Reconstruction and economic development assistance, as elsewhere, is
often subject to conditionality . The Commission, while desiring nothing better than to assist throughout Bosnia
and Herzegovina, is tailoring its assistance, in close cooperation with other members of the international
community, with a view to encouraging proper observance of the peace agreements .

( 97 / C 217 / 31 0 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0472 / 97

by Bernie Malone ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 12 February 1997 )

Subject : Employment conditions for trainee pilots with Aer Lingus in Ireland

Is the Commission aware that trainee pilots with Aer Lingus in Ireland apparently have to sign excessively long
contracts and have to repay part of the cost of their training to Aer Lingus if they leave before their contracts
expire ? This is being justified by Aer Lingus on the grounds that they are among the conditions agreed between
the Commission and the Irish Government when state aid into Aer Lingus was authorized ?

Can the Commission confirm whether such conditions form part of this state aid agreement ?

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 199

Answer given by Mr Kinnock on behalf of the Commission

( 17 March 1997 )

The contractual relations between Aer Lingus and its trainee pilots were not the subject of conditions attached to
the authorization by the Commission of state aid to the airline . Moreover, the Commission did not examine this
matter since it did not form part of the airline 's restructuring programme .

( 97 / C 217 / 311 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0473 / 97

by Sirkka-Lnsa Anttila ( ELDR ) to the Commission

( 12 February 1997 )

Subject : Measures necessary to secure the lifting of the ban on the importation of hens ' eggs suitable for human

consumption from Finland into Russia

Russia 's Ministry of Agriculture and Food has issued a letter banning the importation from abroad of hens ' eggs
intended for human consumption, on grounds of animal hygiene . As a result it has been impossible to export
hens ' eggs from Finland to Russia since 24 April 1 996 . This ban has caused considerable problems in Finland,
both to egg producers and to other businesses operating in the sector, as well as to Russian consumers, who had
not always previously been able to purchase high-quality, salmonella-free Finnish hens ' eggs .

There is a long-standing tradition of trade in hens ' eggs between Finland and Russia, and eggs imported from
Finland have met the requirements imposed by Russia .

Russia 's Ministry of Agriculture and Food has banned imports of beef and beef products into Russia because of
BSE . Finland is not affected by this ban : only Russia 's ban on the importation of hens ' eggs is affecting us . It
seems the ban is being observed only at the border between Finland and Russia, since according to our
information hens ' eggs are being imported into Russia, for example from Germany and Holland, via Belarus .
This matter has been raised repeatedly, inter alia in the management committee for hens ' eggs and poultrymeat,
but without result .

My question is, therefore, what action has the Commission taken or does it intend to take to secure the lifting of
Russia 's groundless ban on imports of hens ' eggs from Finland, and what is the timetable for it ?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 12 March 1997 )

After the announcement of the Russian ban on imports of eggs in shell, the Community exported only 41 tonnes
in the period May-October 1996, including 33 tonnes from Germany and less than one tonne from Finland
( corresponding period 1995 : 1178 tonnes, including 1058 tonnes from Finland ).

The Russian authorities are justifying their ban in the case of Finland on veterinary grounds . The other Member
States are not meeting problems in the veterinary field, but exports to Russia have decreased for commercial

reasons .

Despite repeated requests, the Commission has not yet been able to get precise information from the Russian
authorities on the veterinary problems raised by them . The Commission will continue to try and resolve the
problem, in close cooperation with the Finnish authorities .

No C 217 / 200 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 3 1 2 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0481 / 97

by Jose Pomes Ruiz ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 12 February 1997 )

Subject : Participation of the peseta in EMU

On 3 February 1997 the position of the peseta against the German mark was weakened by doubts which surfaced
on the financial markets regarding its entry into the third stage of EMU, prompted by the suspicion that Spain
would not be able to enter EMU in advance of Italy for political reasons . This rumour is contrary to the spirit and
letter of the Treaty and the political will of the European Parliament that all countries which meet the Treaty
requirements should be able to enter EMU .

Since the financial markets accord importance to an alleged political preconcdition which disadvantages Spain, it
would be useful for the Commission to take a clear position on this issue . Will the Commission or Council
therefore issue a declaration expressly stating that the entry of each country into EMU will be examined on an
individual basis, without reference to discriminatory geopolitical criteria ?

Answer given by Mr de Silguy on behalf of the Commission

( 13 March 1997 )

No rules other than those laid down in the EC Treaty will determine whether or not a particular Member State
will participate in monetary union as from January 1999 . According to these rules, early in 1998 the Council, on
the basis of reports by the Commission and the European monetary institute and on a recommendation from the
Commission, will assess whether each Member State fulfils the necessary conditions for the adoption of the
single currency . The Parliament will be consulted . Subsequently, the Council, meeting in the composition of
heads of state or government, will confirm which Member States fulfil these conditions . A Member State
fulfilling the conditions cannot be excluded from participation in monetary union .

( 97 / C 217 / 313 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0482 / 97

by Manlena Marin ( UPE ) to the Commission

( 12 February 1997 )

Subject : Start-up aid for young farmers

In accordance with the regional law on start-up aid for young farmers, pursuant to Regulation ( EEC )
No 2328 / 91 ('), Veneto region sent the draft law in question to the Commission on 31 May 1996 .

After carefully examining whether the aid earmarked ( Lit 15 billion ) was consistent with Article 3 of the Treaty,
the Commission has apparently given its consent .

However, the regional bodies still do not have all the information required to enable them to take the decision
giving effect to the funding .

Can the Commission explain the reasons for the delay and does it consider that it has completed its role in the
administrative procedure ?

(') OJ L 218, 6.8.1991, p . 1 .

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

(7 March 1997 )

On 11 June 1996 Italy notified the Commission of draft law No 78 of the Veneto region .

Since the draft contained provisions for measures which involved both state aid and Community part-financing,
those provisions were the subject of two separate examinations . The first, regarding compliance with Articles 92
and 93 of the EC Treaty, has been completed . The resultant Commission 's opinion took account of the fact that
certain provisions of the draft law also had to be examined under Regulation ( EEC ) No 2328 / 91, in particular
those concerning :

17 . 7 . 97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 201

a ) setting-up aid for young farmers ;

b ) start-up aid for producer groups and agricultural associations aiming to set up farm relief services ;

c ) aid for organizing training courses and work experience programmes to encourage young people to go into
farming .

The second examination has not yet been completed because of a work over-load in the relevant department of
the Directorate-General for Agriculture . However, the Commission may be expected to come to a conclusion
concerning the abovementioned draft law shortly .

( 97 / C 217 / 31 4 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0485 / 97

by Jesus Cabezon Alonso ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Subject : China and the Guatemala peace agreements

Has the Commission considered adopting any measures to counter the effects of the Chinese veto in the UN,
which is blocking aid for the international monitoring of the peace agreements signed on 29 December 1 996
between the Guatemalan government and the Guatemalan Revolutionary National Unity Movement ?

Answer given by Mr Marin on behalf of the Commission

( 12 March 1997 )

The question raised by the Honourable Member is no longer an issue : China has already lifted its veto on the
dispatch of international observers to monitor the peace agreements between the Guatemalan National
Revolutionary Union and the Guatemalan government .

( 97 / C 217 / 315 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0486 / 97

by Juan Colino Salamanca ( PSE ) and Jesus Cabezón Alonso ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Subject : Fisheries agreement with Morocco

On what grounds has the Commission accepted an extension of the ' biological pause ' for the cephalopod fishing
fleet under the existing fisheries agreement between the EU and Morocco ?

What new circumstances have arisen to justify departing from the two-month ' biological pause ' provided for in
the existing fisheries agreement and accepting its extension to four months ?

Does the Commission not consider this a bizarre precedent, since it undermines the legal validity of the
agreement and opens the door to future, unilaterally imposed renegotiation of other clauses of the existing
fisheries agreement ?

Answer given by Mrs Bonino on behalf of the Commission

( 14 March 1997 )

Fishing datasheet No 1 on cephalopod vessels, annexed to the Fisheries Agreement between the Community and
Morocco, originally provided for a two-month biological rest period in September and October . Provision is also
made for this period to be adjusted by mutual agreement .

With a view to resource protection and as part of an overall policy on the rational use of fishery resources, the two
Contracting Parties agreed to establish for 1997 a four-month biological rest period for cephalopod vessels . This
period will apply in a non-discriminatory way to the Community and Moroccan fishing fleets throughout
Morocco 's fishing waters .

No C 217 / 202 ΓΕΝ Official Journal of the European Communities 7 . 7 . 97

This adjustment to the biological rest period was made by mutual agreement and in accordance with the terms of
the Fisheries Agreement . It does not set, therefore, any precedent whereby Morocco could change the Agreement
unilaterally .

( 97 / C 217 / 31 6 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0503 / 97

by Lucio Manisco ( GUE / NGL ) to the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Subject : Discrimination against EU citizens in the USA

On 1 1 December 1996 an EU citizen, Andrea Petteno, arrived in New York for a holiday, having flown from
Venice via Amsterdam . On arrival, he was stopped by the airport 's immigration service, taken to a room and
harshly questioned, since it was believed that he was travelling on a false Italian passport . Mr Petteno ' s passport
was, of course, genuine, as was later confirmed by the Italian authorities .

The room in which Mr Petteno was held also contained 'a South American man in chains, who was vomiting ' . A
colleague of Mr Petteno ' s, Mr Sergio Bordonaro, who is also a EU citizen and holds a US work permit, tried to
confirm that his friend was Italian and not Albanian . However, he too was threatened by immigration officers .
They were not allowed to make a telephone call to the Italian Consulate .

1 . Would the Commission not agree that such behaviour on the part of the US authorities must be deplored ?

2 . What steps does it intend to take in response to this blatant violation of human rights by the US immigration
service ?

3 . What is it doing to ensure that EU citizens in the United States are not treated like criminals ?

Answer given by Sir Leon Brittan on behalf of the Commission

( 18 March 1997 )

The particular case mentioned by the Honourable Member, while no doubt regrettable, cannot in the
Commission 's view be considered as indicative of a general discrimination by United States immigration
officials against Community citizens . The Commission does not consequently feel it appropriate to raise this as a
general issue with the American authorities .

( 97 / C 217 / 317 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0507 / 97

by Luciano Vecchi ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Subject : Discrimination against Italian citizens applying for admission to universities in the United Kingdom

In the 1996-1997 academic year, Mrs Sara Dallape, an Italian citizen, made a successful application for
admission to the University of Birmingham . For these purposes, however, Mrs Dallape was considered not to be
a Community resident and was therefore required to pay admission fees higher than those payable by
Community residents .

Mrs Dallape is an Italian citizen and has been legally resident in Italy since 1992 . Given that her parents spent
many years in Africa working on cooperation projects financed by the European Union, part of her school life
was spent in Zimbabwe .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 203

The decision taken by the university authorities in Birmingham is therefore clearly contrary to the principles of
freedom of movement for students and equal treatment for Community citizens .

What are the Council 's views on this matter and how does it intend to make good the discrimination suffered by
Mrs Dallape ?

Answer given by Mrs Cresson on behalf of the Commission

(2 April 1997 )

The problem which appears to lie behind the question raised by the Honourable Member is the practice in the
United Kingdom of charging higher admission fees to Community citizens .

The general principle of equal treatment in access to education in the territory of the Community means that all
Community students must be given the same treatment as nationals of the Member State concerned . The
admission fees payable by students form part of the conditions of access covered by this principle of
non-discrimination .

The relevant UK legislation is based on the idea of the territorial link, in the sense that students wishing to benefit
from reduced rates ( home rate fees ) must have been resident in the territory of the United Kingdom for at least the
three years prior to the beginning of the academic year . Community citizens are considered to be included in the
category of ' exempted students ' and may also benefit from reduced rates if they meet the same condition of
residence in Community territory .

In the specific case mentioned in the Honourable Member 's question, a complaint has been addressed to the
Commission . Given that the information submitted makes no mention of the reasons which led the university
authorities to consider the person concerned not to be a Community resident, the Commission has asked her to
forward all the information on the nature of the reasons for which she was classified as not being a Community
resident and obliged to pay the higher admission fees applicable to overseas students . The Commission will
examine the reply, draw the necessary conclusions and, if appropriate, take the measures needed to guarantee
compliance with Community law .

( 97 / C 217 / 318 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0509 / 97

by Frank Vanhecke ( NI ) to the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Subject : Development cooperation

On Saturday, 10 August 1996 on the island of Negros in the Philippines 10 Belgian students faced an unexpected
eruption of the volcano, Mount Canlaon . Some of them were wounded and one Briton and two Filipinos were
killed in this eruption .

Press reports indicated that the 10 students from Namur University, five Flemish and five Walloon, had left on

16 July 1996 on a six week familiarization visit to the Philippines with the NGO ' Fondation universitaire pour la
cooperation internationale au developpement ' ( FUCID ).

1 . An answer to a parliamentary question given by the Belgian State Secretary for Development Cooperation
indicates that FUCID is involved in co-financed projects with the European Union . What amount of subsidy is
involved ?

2 . Was a specific subsidy application made for the project referred to above ?

3 . What is the relevance to development of such a familiarization visit ?

Answer given by Mr Marin on behalf of the Commission

(7 March 1997 )

1 . The Commission has co-funded two development projects with the Belgian non governmental organization
FUCID in Zaire for a total amount of ECU 420,324 .

No C 217 / 204 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17.7.97

2 . The Commission has not contributed to any project of FUCID in the Philippines .

3 It is not up to the Commission to judge the relevance of such action . However, the kind of action cited by the
Honourable Member would not be eligible for co-funding on the Commission 's budget .

( 97 / C 217 / 31 9 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0510 / 97

by Wilmya Zimmermann ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Subject : European programmes for young people aged under 15 and for children

European programmes for young people, such as ' Youth for Europe III ', apparently apply only to young people
aged 15 or over . However, there are also events which are organized for young people below the age of 15 or for
children which have a European dimension and therefore deserve support . These activities likewise promote the
sense of community among young Europeans and hence European awareness .

Can the Commission therefore indicate whether there is also scope for subsidizing events with a European
dimension for young people aged under 15 / children ? If not, will the Commission extend existing programmes to
this age range or does it plan to propose programmes for the under       - 14s or children for the future in order to tap
into this valuable potential for promoting European awareness ?

Answer given by Mrs Cresson on behalf of the Commission

(1 April 1997 )

Possibilities for the funding of school activities with a European dimension for young people under the age of 1 5
are provided by the Comenius chapter of the European education programme, Socrates . Action 1 of this chapter
gives schools the opportunity to participate in transnational cooperation, with European financial support . A
Comenius partnership involves at least three schools in at least three Member States, which work together on
European educational projects based on themes such as cultural heritage, environment, media or transition to
working life . During the 1996 / 1997 academic year some 5000 schools throughout Europe joined a Comenius
transnational partnership, including a large number of nursery and primary schools .

In view of the nature of activities under the Youth for Europe programme, and given the financial resources
available, it is intended to leave the minimum age for participation in this programme at 15 .

( 97 / C 217 / 320 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0514 / 97

by Jesus Cabezon Alonso ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Subject : Transposition of social protection Directives in Spain

Which Community Directives on social and employment protection have not been transposed into Spanish
legislation ?

What steps has the Commission taken to remedy the delay ?

Has the Commission called upon the Spanish Government to incorporate all the Directives on social or
employment matters into Spanish national law ?

Answer given by Mr Flynn on behalf of the Commission

( 26 March 1997 )

The Honourable Member is asked to refer to the progress report on the 1995-97 medium-term social action
programme ( including the Annex describing the situation as regards notification of national measures to
implement the Community Directives in the social sphere ). More particularly, as far as the situation in Spain is
concerned,

17 . 7 . 97 \ EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 205

it has transposed only 37 of the 50 Directives entering into force on or before 15 February 1997, i.e. 74% . A list of
all the Directives which have entered into force and have not yet been transposed by Spain is being sent direct to
the Honourable Member and to the Secretariat of the Parliament .

In so far as it has responsibility, the Commission avails itself of the infringement procedure under Article 169 of
the EC Treaty in the event of failure to notify transposal . The Honourable Member 's attention is drawn in
particular to Annex IV of the 14th annual report from the Commission to the Parliament on monitoring the
application of Community law — 1 996 . In this connection, it should be noted that the judgment of the Court of
Justice of 26 September 1996 found that Spain had failed to transpose the first six individual Directives within
the meaning of Article 16 ( 1 ) of the framework Directive on safety and health at work ; further action is to be
taken against Spain in the near future for failure to transpose Directive 92 / 104 / EC (')•

The Commission deplores Spain 's failure to transpose the Directives in the social sphere . It has made the Spanish
authorities aware of its concern, emphasising the extra effort which must be made particularly in the field of
safety and health at work . All of the Directives which have not yet been transposed by Spain, except for one, fall
within this domain . With regard to Directive 94 / 45 / EC on European Works Councils ( 2 ), in the context of the
Commission 's close cooperation with national authorities aimed at ensuring uniform transposal in all the
Member States, the Spanish authorities have reported that a proposal for a law transposing this Directive will be
approved shortly .

(') OJ L 404, 31.12.1992 .
0 OJ L 254, 30.9.1994 .

( 97 /C 217 / 321 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0517 / 97

by Peter Truscott ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 14 February 1997 )

Subject : International truck driver qualifications

In December 1995 the Road Haulage and Distribution Training Council ( RHDTC ) based in Shenley,
Hertfordshire, published a report on a suggested European qualification for truck drivers . This report
(' International Truck Driver ') was part-funded by the European Union . Since that time RHDTC has heard
nothing further .

Could the Commission confirm the timescale for the implementation of the proposed qualification, or explain the
lack of progress made with developing this qualification ?

Answer given by Mr Kinnock on behalf of the Commission

( 18 March 1997 )

The Commission recognises the importance of training in road transport . The Committee of transport workers
unions in the Community ( with support from the Commission ) completed a report in March 1996 on the training
of drivers . This supplemented a January 1996 Commission survey on continuous vocational training in road
freight and passenger services which was drawn up under the Force programme .

The Commission is now preparing a report to the Council on training of professional drivers and that report may
form the basis of further legislative initiatives or recommendations to produce a common set of rules for
improving the skills of professional drivers . Such rules would have the purpose of enhancing, road safety, and
allowing mutual recognition of professional competence for drivers and facilitating the free movement of
workers in the Community .

No C 217 / 206 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

( 97 / C 217 / 322 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0525 / 97

by Maartie van Putten ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 20 February 1997 )

Subject : Rugmark carpets

In the past few years several initiatives have been taken to establish certification systems for carpets produced
without illegal child labour . Major examples are the Rugmark certification systems in India and Nepal and the
Kaleen certification system in India .

1 . Is the Commission prepared to ask its delegation in New Delhi to make an assessment of both the Rugmark
certification systems in India and Nepal and the Kaleen certification system in India ?

2 . Is the Commission prepared to inform Parliament about the results of that assessment ?

Answer given by Mr Marin on behalf of the Commission

( 10 March 1997 )

The Commission is not convinced at this stage that the verification procedures in the countries where the
Rugmark scheme operates do ensure that rugs bearing this fair trade label are made without the use of child
labour . However, as the Rugmark system in India and Nepal has been conceived and is implemented by a
Member State, the Commission is of the opinion that an assessment of the system should be made by this
Member State . The Commission would of course be happy to be informed of the results of the assessment .

The Commission will take note of experiences gained from the Rugmark initiative, in particular in the context of
the Community 's revised scheme of tariff preferences ('). This scheme provides that additional preferences
( more reduced preferential rates of duty ) may be granted, as from 1 January 1998, to beneficiary countries which
respect the standards of certain International labour organisation conventions, including convention 1 38 relating
to child labour ( 2 ). In due time the Commission will submit a proposal for a Council decision on the scope of such
preferences and their application .

The Commission is not aware of the Kaleen certification system in India .

O Council Regulation ( EC ) No 3281 / 94, OJ L 348, 31.12.1994 .
( 2 ) Minimum age for admission to employment .

( 97 / C 217 / 323 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0526 / 97

by James Moorhouse ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 20 February 1997 )

Subject : Aid to Algeria

Following its decision in December 1996 to grant Algeria ECU 125 million in aid and a loan of ECU 100 million,
can the Commission specify :

1 . For which purpose is the aid being granted ?

2 . How will the use of the aid be monitored and how regularly ?

3 . Can we rest assured that the aid will not be used to assist in the campaign against ' terrorism ', which in the
past has equally targeted innocent civilians, or in the purchase of arms or equipment for the military or
security forces ?

4 . Will a report be made back on how the aid is used ?

Answer given by Mr Mann on behalf of the Commission

(7 March 1997 )

1 . With its decision of December 1996 to allocate an amount of 125 MECU in the form of a structural

adjustment grant the Commission provides support to the economic reforms undertaken by the government of

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 207

Algeria . These reforms should facilitate the transformation of the Algerian economy from a state     - and energy ­
dominated economy into a diversified private-sector led economy . The Commission 's support is given in a
framework in which also the IMF and the World Bank participate . Both Bretton Woods institutions have at the
moment substantial programmes in Algeria, while also debt rescheduling agreements negotiated in the Paris and
London Clubs have played a key role in enabling the Algerian stabilisation and reform process .

The Commission 's aid is given in agreement with the principles and recommendations set out in Council
Resolution 7566 / 95 of 1st June 1995 on structural adjustment . This implies that once Algeria has complied with
the mutually agreed performance criteria, disbursement of aid will take place in the form of a direct budgetary
grant . Extending the assistance in the form of direct budgetary support is justified by the fact that Algeria has
made good progress in liberalising its current account operations and that full current account convertibility is
within reach .

Lastly, contrary to what is suggested in the question, the Commission did not decide in December to extend a
loan of 100 MECU to Algeria . The Honourable Member may be referring to the second and last instalment of

100 MECU of the second macro financial loan to Algeria, which was approved by Council Decision of
22 December 1994 ('). A formal decision as to the disbursement of this instalment has not yet been made .

2 . The financing agreement signed by the Commission and the Algerian authorities includes various
provisions regarding the use and the monitoring of the aid . Under these provisions the beneficiary country is
required to provide the Commission regularly, and at least once every quarter, information regarding its macro
economic performance and the proposals for and implementation of reform measures . Moreover, regular review
meetings will be held between the Commission and the Algerian authorities .

3 . The provisions of the financing agreement concluded with the Algerian government offer a reasonable
guarantee that the Community 's support will reach exclusively the objective of providing support to the process
of economic reform in Algeria, while respecting social constraints .

4 . Provisions for the monitoring the implementation of the programme are included in the financing
agreement . Moreover, the programme is subjected to the standard reporting requirements applicable to this type
of programmes .

(') OJ L 366 du 22.12.1994 .

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 324 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0532 / 97

by Luciano Vecchi ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 20 February 1997 )

Subject : Establishment of a recycling plant at Bronzolo / Branzoll ( Bolzano Autonomous Province, Italy )

Despite opposition from the local authorities concerned and from a number of technical bodies, the Bolzano
Autonomous Province has decided to grant authorization for the setting up of an inert-matter recycling plant on a
site within the Bronzolo / Branzoll municipal area which is of particular importance and sensitivity from the
environmental, hydro-geological and landscape points of view .

It is highly likely that such a plant would cause problems for the local population in terms of noise, air and water
pollution and may also have geological implications .

In addition it appears that, over a period of time, the authorization documents have been amended as a way of
ensuring that the project remains outside the scope of Directive 85 / 337 EEC (') on environmental impact

assessment .

What are the Commission 's views on this matter and what action is it intending to take in order to uphold
Community law, in particular that contained in Directive 85 / 337 ( environmental impact assessment ) and
91 / 156 ( 2 ) ( disposal of waste )?

(')
( 2 )

OJ L 175, 5.7.1995, p . 40 .
OJ L 78, 26.3.1991, p . 32 .

No C 217 / 208 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

Answer given by Mrs Bjerregaard on behalf of the Commission

( 18 March 1997 )

The projected facility mentioned in the Honourable Member 's question is not automatically submitted to the
environmental impact assessment procedure provided for by Directive 85 / 337 / EEC .

However, it is subject to that procedure if it has a significant impact on the environment as a result of its nature,
extent or location . No aspect enabling the existence of a significant impact to be identified emerges from the
question put by the Honourable Member .

It should be noted that the Commission is currently taking infringement action against Italy with regard to certain
aspects of the laws of the province of Bolzano regarding environmental impact assessment .

( 97 / C 217 / 325 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0533 / 97

by Luciano Vecchi ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 20 February 1997 )

Subject : Establishment of a recycling plant at Bronzolo / Branzoll ( Bolzano Autonomous Province, Italy )

On 10 September 1996 the Bronzolo / Branzoll authorities lodged a complaint with the Commission concerning a
failure to comply with Directives 75 / 442 ('), 91 / 156 ( 2 ), 92 / 50 ( 3 ) and 85 / 337 ( 4 ) in connection with the granting
of authorization for a plan to set up a recycling plant at Bronzolo in the Bolzano Autonomous Province, Italy .

What view does the Commission take of this complaint and what action ( and at what time ) is it intending to take
in order to ensure that Community law is upheld ?

0 OJ L 194, 25.7.1975, p . 39 .
0 OJ L 78, 26.3.1991, p . 32 .
0 OJ L 209, 24.7.1992, p . 1 .
0 OJ L 175, 5.7.1985, p . 40 .

Answer given by Mrs Bjerregaard on behalf of the Commission

( 21 March 1997 )

The Commission has brought infringement proceedings against Italy with regard to certain aspects of the laws of
Bolzano province concerning environmental impact assessment . The complaint, and others, to which the
Honourable Member refers, are being dealt with as part of the abovementioned main procedure, which concerns
the basic legislation .

( 97 / C 217 / 326 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0542 / 97

by Johanna Maij-Weggen ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 21 February 1997 )

Subject : Death sentences pronounced against two members of the Bahai faith in Iran

Is the Commission prepared to ask for early clarification from the Iranian Government concerning two recent
death sentences pronounced by the Supreme Court of Iran against Mr Dhabihu'llah Mahrami and Mr Musa Talibi
on the grounds of ' apostasy ', because those two Iranian citizens are members of the Bahai faith ?

What is the Commission 's view of such death sentences, and what conclusions does it draw from the relevant
legislation in Iran with regard to the lack of freedom of religion ?

17.7.97 1 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 209

Answer given by Mr Mann on behalf of the Commission

( 13 March 1997 )

The Commission would draw the attention of the Honourable Member to the fact that a Union demarche to

Tehran was made on 13 February 1997 to the Iranian ministry of Foreign Affairs on the cases of Mr Mohamed
Yusefi and Mr Musa Talibi, the two Baha'is in question .

The Commission considers that a change of religion is a matter of individual right, and cannot approve that it be
made the object of a death penalty . Such an action would be contrary to the Universal declaration on human
rights to which Iran is a signatory . The Commission considers that Iran should accept liberty of religious opinion
under the terms of the Universal declaration .

( 97 / C 217 / 327 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0543 / 97

by Johanna Maij-Weggen ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 21 February 1997 )

Subject : Ban on Dr Majed Nasser travelling to the Netherlands

Recently, the Israeli authorities refused permission for Dr Majed Nasser, a member of the governing body of the
Alternative Tourism Centre in Beit Sahour and Director of the Greek Catholic Convent Clinic ( the Palestinian
hospital in Beit Sahour ), to travel to the Netherlands .

The grounds for the ban appear to be the current Israeli Government 's policy of preventing Palestinian citizens
engaged in political activities from maintaining their foreign contacts .

Is the Commission prepared to ask the Israeli authorities to explain why they refused to grant Dr Majed Nasser an
exit visa ?

Answer given by Mr Marin on behalf of the Commission

( 26 March 1997 )

The Commission is opposed to all those measures which impact negatively on Palestinian life and the Palestinian
economy, when these have no proper justification in terms of Israel 's agreements with the Palestinians . However,
as concerns the case mentioned by the Honourable Member, the Commission has no authority in consular

matters .

( 97 / C 217 / 328 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0551 / 97

by Ulf Holm ( V ) to the Commission

( 21 February 1997 )

Subject : Possible decision by Sweden not to participate in EMU

What will the Commission do if the Swedish Parliament decides that Sweden should not participate in EMU ?

Answer given by Mr de Silguy on behalf of the Commission

( 26 March 1997 )

Sweden has signed and approved the Treaty on European Union . According to Article 109j-k EC Treaty a
Member State shall join the third stage if it fulfils the necessary conditions for the adoption of a single currency
and this is confirmed by the Council . Sweden does not have an opt-out clause and is expected to respect the
Treaty .

No C 217 / 210 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

( 97 / C 217 / 329 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0556 / 97

by Jannis Sakellariou ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 24 February 1997 )

Subject : Potato starch quotas

After the 1995 crop year the Commission decided on a quota system for potato starch . However, this system does
not take sufficient account, if at all, of fluctuations in different annual harvests in respect of yield per hectare or
starch content . The cases of hardship that arise could be overcome if a generous advance ( e.g. of 30% ) on the next
year 's harvest were allowed or — better still — if a quota could be defined as the average crop yield over a number
of years (3 to 5 ).

1 . Does the Commission have any plans for a special hardship scheme for exceptional crop yields ?

2 . Is the Commission considering supplementing or improving the quota system by using advances or mean
values ?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 17 March 1997 )

Fixing quotas on potato starch production in the Member States is the responsibility of the Council, which
adopted a Regulation establishing a quota system in July 1994 . (')

This Regulation provides for flexibility to take account of crop fluctuations . Starch producers can use — in
addition to their quota for the current marketing year — a maximum of 5% of their quota for the following
marketing year . Should they do so, the following year 's quota is reduced accordingly .

The quota arrangements have been laid down for three marketing years and will be the subject of a Commission
Report at the end of 1997 that will be accompanied, if necessary, by suitable proposals . The Commission does
not intend proposing amendments to the arrangements before this date .

(') Council Regulation ( EC ) No 1868 / 94          - OJ 197 of 30 . 7.1994 .

( 97 / C 217 / 330 WRITTEN QUESTION E-0559 / 97

by James Moorhouse ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 24 February 1997 )

Subject : Detention of EU citizens in Saudi-Arabian prisons

How many EU citizens have been arrested and detained in Saudi Arabia in each of the years 1990 to 1996
inclusive, and in 1997 so far ? In each year, how many of those persons have complained to their respective
Ambassador in Saudi Arabia about ill treatment while they were in custody ?

Answer given by Mr Van den Broek on behalf of the Commission

( 26 March 1997 )

The Commission has nothing on which to base a reply to the Honourable Member 's question which, moreover,
could be put to the Council .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 211

( 97 / C 217 / 331 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0565 / 97

by Magda Aelvoet ( V ) to the Commission

( 24 February 1997 )

Subject : Improving the environment for residents of the Espace Bruxelles-Europe area

Residents ' committees and environmental groups in Brussels have just staged a week of initiatives and
discussion, from 18-25 January 1997, on the future of housing in the Espace Bruxelles-Europe area and, in
particular, of the areas of wasteland along the Chaussee d'Etterbeek ;

— although the Protocol between the Belgian State and the Region of Brussels-Capital ( May 1 989 ) provides
that the majority of public properties in the Espace Bruxelles-Europe area as a whole should not be sold, the
areas of wasteland between the Council building and Parliament 's buildings have been put up for sale by the
Buildings Authority ;

— the local environment is threatened not only by the gradual destruction of housing and the growing number
of areas in the city blighted by the excessive expansion of public administration but also by the resulting
traffic congestion ;

— a study on the sustainable mobility of public administration carried out for DG XI of the Commission ( final
report : May 1996 ) examined the case of Brussels and finally recommended a series of measures to reduce
traffic congestion ;

— following the European Parliament 's application to operate the car park in Building D3 ( 2300 spaces ), only
900 spaces have been licensed by the Region, subject to a number of conditions, one of which is that a
corporate transport plan should be drawn up at the same time ;

— the Commissioner, Mr Liikanen, has called for the integration of the European institutions and for all new
Commission property policy in the neighbourhood to be frozen ;

Is the Commission prepared to take action to ensure that the areas of wasteland, particularly those along the
Chaussee d'Etterbeek, are earmarked for housing and services to regenerate the neighbourhood ?

Does the Commission intend to promote and apply, along with the other European institutions and public
administrations located in the Espace Bruxelles-Europe area, a sustainable mobility plan to reduce traffic
congestion in the neighbourhood and the need to use the new car parks ?

Finally, does it intend to ask for an official liaison officer to be appointed in order to overcome the problem of the
fragmentation of Belgian powers and responsibilities and ensure that the commitments concerning the
integration of the European institutions in Brussels are honoured ?

Answer given by Mr Lukanen on behalf of the Commission

( 19 March 1997 )

As the Honourable Member himself points out, the Member of the Commission in charge of Personnel and
Administration has on several occasions publicly declared his support for the integration of the European
institutions into the surrounding urban environment . Not only does he wish to avoid a proliferation of offices in
the ' Espace Bruxelles-Europe ', he has also expressed the hope that this area might be redeveloped for the benefit
of its residents, for example by the creation of green areas and pedestrian precincts, the development of housing
and local shops and encouragement for the use of public transport .

In more practical terms, the Commission is playing an active part in the work of various bodies which have
recently been set up to deal with these questions, such as the ' Senders de l'Europe ' group, the ' Europe-Habitants '
monitoring committee and the ' Comite de Quartier de la rue de la Loi ', for example . Representatives of the other
institutions are also involved in the work of these groups .

Although the Member of the Commission responsible for Personnel and Administration has assured these bodies
of his willingness to help in the drafting of planned projects, possibly in the shape of a financial contribution
from the Commission, he has also pointed out that the local authorities are responsible for implementing what
has been decided and the Commission cannot usurp that responsibility .

No C 217 / 212 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

( 97 / C 217 / 332 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0570 / 97

by Maria Berger ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Subject : EUR-1 for cargoes

1 . What action does the Commission intend to take to deal with the problem that EUR-1 import certificates
may not be issued for parts of a vessel 's cargo from non-Community countries ? ( eg problem of Israeli citrus fruit :
EU — Austria — Kopar — Italy ). Austrian companies are at a severe competitive disadvantage under the present
rules, as Austria has no seaports and therefore can often take only part-cargoes .

2 . Might a possible solution be for the EU certificate to be lodged at the border and the part-cargoes recorded ?
What other solutions are under consideration ?

Answer given by Mr Monti on behalf of the Commission

( 12 March 1997 )

The Honourable Member 's question concerns goods imported under preferential treatment into Austria . The
goods are imported from a country with which the Community has concluded a free trade agreement ( e.g. Egypt,
Israel, Morocco ) or a country which gets preferential treatment under an autonomous regime ( e.g. a country
benefitting from the system of general preferences ).

All preferential trade arrangements provide for direct transport . The direct transport rule states that preferential
treatment only applies to products which are transported directly between the Community and the country party
to the agreement . Products constituting a single consignment may be transported through other territories or
temporarily warehoused in other territories provided that they remain under the surveillance of the customs
authorities in the country of transit or warehousing and do not undergo operations other than unloading,
reloading or any operation designed to preserve them in good condition .

The direct transport rule does not allow the splitting of consignments in a country of transit as this could create,
and facilitate, fraud . As soon as the goods have arrived in the Community, either directly or through a transit
country, the customs authorities can issue replacement certificates for each portion of the split consignment .

When the consignment is imported into a Community port, e.g. Trieste, the importer has the option of either
putting it into free circulation or asking the customs authorities to issue replacement certificates for the part of the
consignment destined for another Member State .

The Commission considers this procedure, laid down by the Community 's rules, to be satisfactory and from a
legal point of view the most secure solution for the problem raised by the Honourable Member . The procedure
does not appear to hinder the competitiveness of Austrian operators .

( 97 / C 217 / 333 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0571 / 97

by Carmen Diez de Rivera Icaza ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Subject : Directive on noise reduction

What has happened to the proposal for a Council directive on noise reduction, which was discussed by the
committee of experts on 21 February 1996 and of which nothing more has been heard ?

Answer given by Mrs Bjerregaard on behalf of the Commission

( 10 March 1997 )

The Commission opened consultations on a future noise policy with its Green Paper on noise (')• This covers all
relevant aspects of noise policy, including the topics discussed in February 1996 . The Commission has invited
comments on the ideas and options outlined in this green paper by the end of March 1997 . It will decide on the
follow-up in the light of these comments .

(') COM(%)540 .

17.7.97 Γ ΕΝ Otlicial Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 213

( 97 / C 217 / 334 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0572 / 97

by Elly Plooij-van Gorsel ( ELDR ) to the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Subject : Internet child-pornography reporting site

The Netherlands Justice Ministry recently opened an Internet site with the Netherlands Association of Internet
Providers on which users can report cases of child pornography on the network .

The provider asks those setting up such material if they are prepared to withdraw it from the network . If that is
not done, the person concerned is reported to the police .

This represents a self-regulation measure by Netherlands Internet access providers aimed at keeping child
pornography originating in the Netherlands off the Internet .

1 . Is the Commission familiar with this initiative ?

2 . Does the Commission see good reason to encourage other EU Member States to follow this example ?

3 . Has the Commission any plans to open a similar child-pornography reporting site on theEuropa server ?

4 . What action is the Commission taking to encourage self-regulation schemes by Internet access providers ?

Answer given by Mr Bangemann on behalf of the Commission

( 17 March 1997 )

1 . The Commission supports the Dutch hotline which allows users to report cases where the Internet is being
misused to distribute illegal material such as child pornography .

2 . Similar initiatives have already been taken in other Member States, and the Commission agrees that such
hotlines should exist all over the Community .

3 . The I*M Europe server has links from http: / /www.echo.l u /best-us e /best-use.htm to existing hotlines,
codes of conduct and other self-regulatory activities, as well as other relevant pages including advice to parents .

4 . The Commission will be giving support to further action to set up effective self-regulatory schemes in
Member States and to ensure dialogue at Community level . This will be among priority items in the action plan
on illegal and harmful content on the Internet which will be proposed shortly .

( 97 / C 217 / 335 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0573 / 97

by Christoph Konrad ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Subject : Vehicle fleet for Commission Members

1 . How many motor vehicles are available to Commission Members on an exclusive-use basis ?

2 . What principles are laid down for use of these vehicles ?

3 . What is the number of specially protected ( bullet-proofed ) Commission vehicles ?

4 . To what extent have security measures been applied to Commission Members ' houses and flats ?

5 . In what security category are Commission Members classified ?

6 . What authority is responsible for carrying out risk-analysis for Commission Members ?

7 . Do European Union Member States finance the additional expenditure on providing security for
Commission Members ?

No C 217 / 214 1 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

Answer given by Mr Lnkanen on behalf of the Commission

( 20 March 1997 )

The provision of official cars is governed by a Commission decision of 1973, updated by the decision of 29 July

1996 on the operation of the Commission 's car fleet .

Members of the Commission may be supplied with an official car and one or two drivers, as they prefer . The
rules governing their use are laid down by the same decision .

For duly substantiated security reasons, a Member of the Commission may also have the use of a second
appropriately equipped car .

Since the measures adopted for Members ' protection are based on risk-analysis, the arrangements are flexible as
regards both personal protection and physical protection ( homes, etc .). Risk is evaluated on the basis of
information supplied by the Member States ' authorities .

In certain cases, in view of a Member 's previous status, the Member States may finance additional measures for
his or her protection .

( 97 / C 217 / 336 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0574 / 97

by Concepcio Ferrer ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Subject : Erasmus, Comenius and Lingua offices

According to Article 126(1 ) of the Treaty on European Union, ' The Community shall contribute to the
development of quality education by encouraging cooperation between Member States and, if necessary, by
supporting and supplementing their action, while fully respecting the responsibility of the Member States for the
content of teaching and the organization of education systems and their cultural and linguistic diversity .'

Some regions in the Member States have exclusive powers in certain areas, thereby helping to preserve that very
cultural diversity in Europe which the Community is supposed to promote and protect .

Article 9 of Catalonia 's Statute of Autonomy states that the Catalan Regional Government has exclusive powers
in education .

Can the Commission therefore explain why there is only one central office for the whole of Spain for allocating
grants under the Erasmus, Comenius and Lingua programmes ?

Answer given by Mrs Cresson on behalf of the Commission

( 17 March 1997 )

Having regard to the principle of subsidiarity applicable to implementation of the Socrates programme, it is the
responsibility of the Member States to set up the national administrative structures to act, in the national territory,
as national agencies for this Community cooperation programme in the field of education . This principle applies
to all participating countries, including those where responsibility for education is largely devolved to the
regions .

Against this background, the Commission nevertheless encourages Member States to establish a coordination
structure, above all with a view to rationalising action to implement measures both within each Member State and
between agencies in the various participating Member States .

It goes without saying that the national agencies, as an integral part of their duties, must establish all useful
contacts with the decentralised institutions responsible for education .

17 . 7 . 97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 215

( 97 / C 217 / 337 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0586 / 97

by Alexandros Alavanos ( GUE / NGL ) to the Commission

( 25 February 1997 )

Subject : Implementation of the Philoxenia Programme

The European Parliament has already delivered a favourable opinion on the Commission 's proposal for a
Council decision adopting a First Multiannual Programme to Assist European Tourism ' Philoxenia ' ( 1997 ­
2000 ). The Economic and Social Committee has also delivered a favourable opinion on the proposal .

Given the importance of tourism in the European Union — it is the biggest job-creating sector, accounting for

13.5% of GDP and directly employing 9 million people — it is vital that the measures set out in the Philoxenia
programme are implemented .

Will the Commission say :

1 . when the programme is scheduled for final approval by the Council,

2 . whether it thinks the programme might be launched in 1997 and whether the appropriate are resources
available ?

Answer given by Mr Papoutsis on behalf of the Commission

( 20 March 1997 )

The Commission has done everything it can, and will continue to do so, to work towards approval of the
Philoxenia (') programme with a view to its implementation from 1997 onwards .

As the Honourable Member is aware, the final adoption of this programme depends on the political will of the
Council . The Commission is unable to give an opinion regarding a definite date for the Council 's decision on the
Commission 's proposal regarding this programme . The Commission will continue to do everything possible with
a view to the adoption of this programme in 1997 .

In any event, pending the Council 's Decision, the Commission intends to pursure a series of lines of action in

1997 . These will fit into a global and coherent approach through improved coordination and certain specific
measures and will be aimed at the competitiveness of the tourist industry, the quality of service, certain
accompanying measures and other initiatives such as implementation of the programme to combat child sex
tourism . They will also take into account the political priorities that the Commission has set itself for this year .

The budgetary authority has fixed commitment appropriations at ECU 4 million for 1997 . This sum is intended to
cover the financing or part-financing of specific measures to implement the Community policy to assist
tourism ( 2 ).

(') OJ C 222 of 31.07.1996, as amended by OJ C 13 of 14.1.1997 .
( 2 ) OJ L 44 of 14.02.1997 .

( 91 /C 217 / 338 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0587 / 97

by Angela Sierra González ( GUE / NGL ), Laura González Alvarez ( GUE / NGL ),
Pedro Marset Campos ( GUE / NGL ) and María Sornosa Martinez ( GUE / NGL ) to the Commission

( 25 February 1997 )

Subject : Project to set up a satellite launching station on the island of El Hierro ( Canaries, Spain )

INTA ( the National Institute for Aerospace Technology ), a body connected with dependent on the Spanish
Ministry of Defence, is planning to build a satellite launching station inside the special bird protection area called
the ' National Park of El Hierro ' included in the network of areas referred to in Council Directive 79 / 409 / EEC (')
on the conservation of wild birds .

The satellite base may be located in special protection area No 103, ' El Hierro ', covering 1 1 980 hectares . This
area was declared a special protection area because of the large number of species, some of them endemic, such
as Cory 's shearwater, the little shearwater, the sparrowhawk, the osprey, the stone curlew, the Turquedove and
the chaffinch .

No C 217 / 216 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

Furthermore, the considerable scale of the planned infrastructure, which includes port facilities, roads and
various installations such as the launching, control and monitoring complex, general services and support
facilities, may affect the natural stability of the area, in addition to the obvious social consequences which the
establishment of a centre of this kind would have for such a small and thinly populated island .

Does the Commission know about the project to set up a satellite launching station on the island of El Hierro ?

Does the Commission consider that a space launching station is compatible with the conservation of the
environment of the island, in particular as regards the protection of birdlife in the area, since the station may be
sited in the special protection area laid down in the above-mentioned Directive 79 / 409 / EEC ?

(') OJ L 103, 25.4.1979, p . I.

Answer given by Mrs Bjerregaard on behalf of the Commission

( 19 March 1997 )

The Commission is unaware of the facts raised by the Honourable Member . It will make the necessary contacts in
order to obtain close details of these facts and to ensure compliance with the Community rules applying .

( 97 / C 217 / 339 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0595 / 97

by Antoine-Francois Bernardini ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Subject : Refining and distribution of petroleum products in France

Staff of the Esso refinery in Fos-Sur-Mer have drawn my attention to the question of refining and distribution of
petroleum products in France . They query the legality of a number of measures taken by the authorities in France
which will jeopardize their jobs .

These measures include :

— the practice of a ' loss-lender price ' for major distributors which distorts competition ;

— a tax system which unduly favours diesel ;

— heavy taxes on French oil exploration, resulting in a fall in production .

Can the Commission give a ruling on the legality of these measures in the light of Community law ? If so, what
action could be taken against the French authorities ?

Answer given by Mr Monti on behalf of the Commission

(2 April 1997 )

The Commission is collecting the information it needs to answer the question . It will communicate its findings as
soon as possible .

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 340 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0596 / 97

by Arie Oostlander ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 19 February 1997 )

Subject : Press reports on marked swine fever vaccine

Is the Commission aware that the press in the Netherlands has published reports on the existence of a marked
swine fever vaccine ?

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 217

Is the Commission prepared to permit the large-scale use of the vaccine to prevent the disease spreading ? If not,
why not ?

Is the Commission prepared to exercise maximum transparency in respect of this matter and to carry out
information campaigns in the near future in order to allay fears and do away with any misunderstanding ?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 13 March 1997 )

Some research towards the production of a marker vaccine against classical swine fever has been reported in the
scientific literature and the Commission is aware of the existence of articles in journals and newspapers
concerning this issue . In order to obtain in-depth information on the subject the Commission has requested the
scientific veterinary committee to deliver an opinion on the potential advantages and disadvantages of the use of
a marker vaccine during a disease epidemic .

No marker vaccine against classical swine fever has yet received a marketing authorisation within the framework
of the Community legislation laid down in Council Directive 90 / 677 / EEC of 13 December 1990 extending the
scope of Directive 81 / 85 1 / EEC on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to veterinary
medicinal products and laying down additional provisions for immunological veterinary medicinal products (').
This means that data are not publicly available on the potency, innocuity and safety of such a vaccine . The
Commission however has been informed that attempts are being made to produce a marker vaccine and an
accompanying diagnostic test . The legislation concerning the use of a vaccine ( conventional or marker ) in the
control and eradication of classical swine fever is laid down in Council Directive 80 / 217 / EEC of 22 January 1 980
introducing Community measures for the control of classical swine fever ( 2 ). In general the use of vaccine is
prohibited, but it may be decided by a Commission decision to introduce a emergency vaccination . Since the
present legislation was adopted in 1990 no emergency vaccinations have been carried out .

When considering the use of a vaccine, one must not forget that the ' carrier sow syndrome ' is of special
importance in the control and eradication of classical swine fever . When pregnant sows are exposed to strains of
low or moderate virulence, the infection may initially go unnoticed but the virus can be transmitted to the
foetuses in the uterus . Depending on the stage of pregnancy and the virulence of the virus strain, the sow may
later abort or produce mummified piglets, weak piglets, or piglets which appear to be born healthy . Large
amounts of virus may be disseminated at farrowing . From an epidemiological point of view the apparently
healthy piglets can be the most insidious of all . They may shed large quantities of virus for months without
showing signs of disease or developing an immune response . Vaccination of carrier sows will not prevent the
birth of piglets carrying the virus .

When applying vaccination, it should furthermore be kept in mind that the immune response, being a biological
process, never confers absolute protection under field conditions nor is it equal in all pigs in a vaccinated
population . The immune response tends to follow a distribution whereby the response of most pigs will be
average, in a few be excellent and in a small proportion will be poor . Those with a poor response may not be
protected by an effective vaccine . The prohibition on the use of vaccine is mainly due to the fact that, while
vaccination stops occurrence of clinical disease, it conceals infection without guaranteeing its elimination . The
non-vaccination policy is also applied by a number of important trading partners such as Canada, Hungary, New
Zealand, Switzerland and the United States .

In order to ensure a full transparency on the policy concerning the control of classical swine fever the
Commission provided all Member States with a classical swine fever video in 1992 . The video was made
available in all the official languages and the national veterinary authorities were encouraged to make use of it in
order to inform pig producers, vets and others about the classical swine fever control and eradication policy .

(') OJ L 373, 31.12.1990 .
( 2 ) OJ L 47, 21.2.1980 .

No C 217 / 218 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

( 97 / C 217 / 341 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0614 / 97

by Pertti Paasio ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 21 February 1997 )

Subject : Securing the conditions to enable Serbia 's democratically elected town councils to function

The unprecedentedly large demonstrations in Belgrade and other towns in Serbia are achieving the result of
ensuring that the results of the local elections which the government had arbitrarily annulled are finally becoming
effective, and democratically elected town councils can begin their work . However, the problems are not over .
The members of councils and other local-government bodies who have been elected by the people lack
experience and practice in their work . The right technical preconditions are likewise needed for democratic
decision-making . It is also possible that the government may try to obstruct the work of town councils . It is
therefore essential that, once the town councils have started work, they should receive sufficient political and
practical support from the European Union . Otherwise it is possible that at least some of them may fail in their
work, which would be extremely damaging to democratic development and would represent a victory for the
anti-democratic government .

In view of the above, what will the Commission do to secure the conditions to enable the democratically elected
town councils and administration to function ?

Answer given by Mr Van den Broek on behalf of the Commission

( 12 March 1997 )

The Commission shares the Honourable Member 's concern that the municipal and city councils and
administrations in Serbia which, following the re-instatement of the November 1996 election results, are under
control of the opposition parties, should be put in a position where they can function properly . The Community,
and the Commission in particular, have only limited means to provide political and practical support to these
municipalities, given that at present the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia neither benefits from technical
assistance programmes, nor has contractual relations with the Community .

The General Affairs Council of 24 February 1997 called upon the Serbian authorities to implement the remaining
parts of the Gonzales report, notably an open dialogue with the opposition, based on democratic principles, and
reforms of the publicly owned mass media . The positive development of the relations between the Community
and the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia will depend on Belgrade taking heed of these recommendations . The
obstruction of the work of these new councils and administrations would, therefore, not only be fully at variance
with the conclusions of the Gonzales report, but also weaken the perspectives for improved relations with the
Community .

Meanwhile the Commission will strengthen its support in favour of independent media and democratisation of
the country under the relevant budget lines, and thereby indirectly underpin the position of these democratically
elected bodies .

( 97 / C 217 / 342 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0615 / 97

by Jan Sonneveld ( PPE ) to the Commission

( 21 February 1997 )

Subject : Export ban on live pigs from the Netherlands following an outbreak of swine fever

1 . Does the Commission feel that the government of the Netherlands has taken all the necessary steps — and
may have gone beyond the prescribed measures — in response to the outbreak of swine fever ?

2 . If so, why has the Commission nevertheless imposed a temporary ban on exports of live pigs from the
Netherlands ? What aspects does the Commission intend to look into during this temporary period so that, if the
results are satisfactory, it can lift the ban ?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

( 12 March 1997 )

The Netherlands reported on 4 February 1997 an outbreak of classical swine fever in the village of Venhorst,
RVV Kring Nijmegen . As soon as the disease was confirmed the Dutch authorities established control measures

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 219

within the framework of Council Directive 80 / 217 / EEC introducing Community measures for the control of
classical swine fever ('). The measures adopted under the Directive are the minimum control and eradication
requirements . It is anticipated that Member States will implement additional measures if a risk assessment
suggests that control measures may be difficult to put in place or if the prevailing conditions suggest a special
high risk for spread of the infection . The overall objective is rapidly to eliminate the swine fever virus from the
affected area . The high density of pigs in the area around Venhorst and the findings from the epidemiological
investigation on the first infected holding suggested that further outbreaks might be expected . To reduce the risk
of spreading the infection the Dutch authorities established a protection zone with a radius of 10 kilometres . The
provisions of the Directive require a protection zone with a minimum radius of 3 kilometres around the outbreak
site, which shall itself be included in a surveillance zone of a radius of at least 10 kilometres .

On 12 February 1997 the Commission adopted Decision 97 / 122 / EC ( 2 ) which introduced a temporary ban on the
export of live pigs from a well defined region of the Netherlands . The measures in this Decision were adopted to
reduce the risk of spreading the virus to other Member States and they are very similar to measures adopted for
implementation by other Member States which have experienced a classical swine fever epidemic . The value of
the measures in the'Decision could be noted when new outbreaks occurred outside the protection zone originally
established by the Dutch authorities . From 16-18 February 1997 a mission with experts from two Member States
visited the Netherlands . The mission found that there was effective management of the eradication campaign and
that certain recommendations could be made concerning epidemiological investigations and trade in animals .

(') OJL 47, 21.2.1980 .
( 2 ) OJ L 45, 15.2.1977 .

( 97 / C 217 / 343 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0627 / 97

by Luciano Vecchi ( PSE ) to the Commission

(4 March 1997 )

Subject : Allocation of funding for the ' Meda Democracy ' programme

Various Non-Governmental Organizations ( NGOs ) which are taking part or intend to take part in the ' Meda
Democracy ' campaign under the Meda programme have pointed to serious problems concerning the provision of
funding by the European Commission .

The fact that a conspicuous share of the funds are not being being allocated until after the projects have been
completed is causing particular problems, especially for the smaller NGOs which do not have easy access to
credit .

Will the Commission say what the current rules are for the allocation of funds for Meda Democracy and whether
it is prepared to alter them to take into account the NGOs ' particular requirements ?

Answer given by Mr Marin on behalf of the Commission

( 25 March 1997 )

Contracts for projects jointly financed under Meda Democracy in 1996 provided for two or three instalments to
be paid depending on the amount of grant . Where this was below ECU 100 000 the first payment after signature
could be 80% of the total, with the rest paid on completion of the project .

Where the grant was over ECU 1 00 000, the first payment after signature was 30% of the total, the second, at the
half-way stage, 40% ; the final payment, on completion, was 30% .

With sums exceeding ECU 100 000 and projects put to the Commission by non-governmental organizations, it is
planned in 1997 to reduce the final payment to 20% of the grant to facilitate the work of small associations with

meagre resources .

No C 217 / 220 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

( 97 / C 217 / 344 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0636 / 97

by Claude Desama ( PSE ) to the Commission

(6 March 1997 )

Subject : Generalized social security contribution ( CSG )

According to the French Ministry of the Budget, French nationals who reside in Belgium and are in receipt of
income from a French public employer are not liable to pay the generalized social contribution and the CRDS .

The URSSAF and the French Ministry of Social Affairs take the view that the CSG and the CRDS should be
deducted from the salaries of French state employees residing outside national territory .

Lastly, it appears that in 1994 many French state organizations ( including schools, the Ministry of Finance, the
national police and hospitals ) reimbursed all their employees residing in Belgium, and ceased making deductions
thereafter .

French citizens residing in Belgium are, therefore, confronted with two conflicting approaches depending on the
authority concerned .

Could the Commission state which approach should be adopted in the light of the bilateral agreements in force
between France and Belgium ?

Answer given by Mr Flynn on behalf of the Commission

( 25 March 1997 )

The Commission would first of all point out to the Honourable Member that the Community institutions are not
in a position to interpret the agreements between France and Belgium, which fall within the competence of the
Member States concerned .

However, as regards the circumstances in which the French authorities may deduct the generalised social
security contribution ( CSG ) and the social debt repayment contribution ( CRDS ) from the salaries of French state
employees who reside in another Member State, the question should be answered in the light of the provisions of
Regulation ( EEC ) No 1408 / 71 on the coordination of Member States ' social security schemes ( ] ).

The Commission is of the opinion that, from the point of view of Community law and more particularly
Regulation ( EEC ) No 1408 / 71, the CSG and the CRDS must be considered as social security contributions and,
consequently, the Regulation applies to such contributions . Under Article 13 ( 2 ) ( d ) of this Regulation, civil
servants and persons treated as such are subject to the legislation of the Member State to which the administration
employing them is subject, even if they reside in another Member State . Consequently, Community law allows
the French authorities to deduct the CSG and the CRDS from the salaries of civil servants and persons treated as
such who are attached to a French administration .

(') Updated version of this Regulation adopted by Regulation ( EC ) No 1 18 / 96 of 2 December 1996 : OJ L 28, 30.1.1997 .

( 97 / C 217 / 345 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0637 / 97

by Claude Desama ( PSE ) to the Commission

(6 March 1997 )

Subject : French and Belgian social security benefits

I am informed that French nationals who work in France but live in Belgium cannot receive the AJE ( young child
allowance ) and the APE ( allowance for parents foregoing paid employment to look after young children ), as the
French authorities argue that these benefits are ' non-exportable .'

However, such persons are not entitled to receive family allowances under Belgian law .

In other words, French nationals residing in Belgium are penalized by both Belgian and French social legislation
by virtue of their status as frontier workers .

Could the Commission state the approach that ought to be adopted in the light of European law and the bilateral
agreements in force between France and Belgium ?

17 . 7 . 97 ΓΕΝ Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 22

Answer given by Mr Flynn on behalf of the Commission

(2 April 1997 )

Community legislation on social security, in particular Regulations Nos 1408 / 71 and 574 / 72 ('), are concerned
with the coordination ( not the harmonisation ) of national social security schemes . Each Member State thus
remains free to decide which benefits are to be provided under its legislation, and subject to which conditions .
Consequently, the French and Belgian family benefit schemes differ . Community legislation establishes
common principles which Member States must adhere to and which are designed to avoid situations where the
diversity of national systems penalises persons who exercise their right to freedom of movement within the
Community, in particular frontier workers .

In order to avoid a situation in which workers would be insured twice or not at all, Title II of Regulation
No 1408 / 71 stipulates which legislation is applicable to them . Frontier workers are insured in the Member State
in which they are engaged in an activity . Frontier workers working in France are entitled to French family
benefits, also in respect of family members resident in Belgium, in accordance with Article 73 of Regulation No

1408 / 71 . This means they cannot simultaneously receive Belgian family benefits .

However, Article 73 does not apply to certain benefits, which are listed in Annex VI to Regulation No 1408 / 71 .
These include the ' parental child-rearing allowance ', which is granted only to persons concerned and to members
of their families residing in French territory .

Regarding the ' allowance for young children ', the Honourable Member is referred to the definition of family
benefits in Article 1 ( u ) ( i ), which excludes the special childbirth allowances mentioned in Annex II to Regulation
No 1408 / 71 . These include the ' allowance for young children ', which is therefore not covered by Regulation No

1408 / 71 and remains outside the scope of Community coordination .

Furthermore, as the case in point concerns French nationals engaged in activity in France, Community legislation
on freedom of movement for workers does not apply ( 2 ). However, the Commission will contact the French
authorities in order to examine the situation with regard to nationals of other Member States engaged in an
activity in France but resident in Belgium . Such persons could claim entitlement under Article 7 ( 2 ) of
Regulation No 1612 / 68 on freedom of movement for workers ( 3 ), which imposes equal treatment with regard to

' social advantages ', without any residence condition .

(') OJ L 28, 30.1.1997 .
( 2 ) Case C-l 12 / 91, Hans Werner v . Finanzamt Aachen-Innenstadt .
( 3 ) OJ L 257, 19.10.1968 .

( 97 / C 217 / 346 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0639 / 97

by Roberta Angelilli ( NI ) to the Commission

(6 March 1997 )

Subject : Lack of transparency

Under Italy 's multi-regional Operational Programmes for Objectives 3 and 4, whose administration is the
responsibility of the Ministry of Employment and Social Welfare, funding was provided in January 1996 for a
course for engineers specializing in the prevention of hydrogeological and seismic hazards and dangers caused
by the vulnerability of buildings, monuments and the environment . This course is organized by the Civil Defence
Department and is held at the multipurpose centre at Castelnuovo di Porto ( near Rome ).

The course appears to have been given no publicity whatever by either the Ministry of Employment or the Civil
Defence Department with the result that none of the 70 volunteers in the Civil Defence Organization Federazione
Autonoma Radio Urbe ( FARU ) ( Independent City Radio Federation ), many of whom were unemployed, were
able to apply for a place on the course, which started last November, despite the fact the FARU frequently holds
its own exercises in Castelnuovo .

Can the Commission check what measures were taken by the Ministry of Employment to publicise the course in
question and can it say whether these measures can be considered sufficient ?

Can the Commission give an overall assessment of the steps taken by the Ministry to publicise courses funded
under the Operational Programmes ?

No C 217 / 222 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

Answer given by Mr Flynn on behalf of the Commission

( 14 April 1997 )

The Commission has asked the Member State concerned for information regarding the facts raised to by the
Honourable Member . It will inform her of its findings .

( 97 / C 217 / 347 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0641 / 97

by Roberta Angelilli ( NI ) to the Commission

(6 March 1997 )

Subject : Freezing of funds in the EU 1997 budget for measures to support the elderly

On 24 September 1996, the President of the European Court of Justice issued an order blocking funds in 1996 for
measures to support the elderly and freezing future commitments pending the conclusion of the legal action taken
by the UK Government .

Can the Commission state the effect that this decision will have on the measures already under way, such as the
European network to combat the marginalization of the elderly run by Caritas in some European countries,
including Italy ?

Can the Commission also explain what the position is for 1997 given that the Court is not likely to deliver a
judgment before the end of this year ?

Answer given by Mr Flynn on behalf of the Commission

(4 April 1997 )

The United Kingdom brought an action before the Court of justice against the Commission challenging the
legality of executing budget line B3-41 04 . The effect of the order of the President of the Court of justice given on
24 September 1996 is that the Commission is authorised to sign agreements in 1996, but not to make any
payments until the date of the final judgement, and then only if the judgement is in its favour . Those
organisations responsible for the projects selected by the Commission for 1996, such as the project cited by the
Honourable Member, are able to choose whether to maintain the planned timetable or to postpone the whole
project or part of it until the Court has given its final judgement . In the event of a judgement in favour of the
Commission the agreement would become operational and both parties would be obliged to fulfil their
obligations thereunder . An unfavourable judgement would discharge the parties from their obligations under the
agreement .

The Commission is currently examining the implication for the implementation of the 1 997 budget line in favour
of older people .

( 97 / C 217 / 348 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0655 / 97

by Wilfried Telkamper ( V ) to the Commission

(6 March 1997 )

Subject : Non-governmental organizations in El Salvador

The Congress of El Salvador adopted a law in November 1996 allowing the Interior Minister to monitor and
inspect non-governmental organizations ( NGOs ), not least with regard to the origin of their funding and the use
to which such funding is put . Religious organizations, including shady right-wing sects, are exempt from such
controls .

1 . Does the Commission perceive here a danger of NGOs being obstructed in their work at the whim of
governments ? Is it prepared to make representations to the Salvadorian Government with a view to abolishing or
modifying these laws and to safeguarding the independence of the NGOs which it supports and, if so, in what
way ?

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 223

2 . The internal weekly report of the Commission delegation in Central America contains the following
passage : ' It is believed that approximately 3000 NGOs are acting illegally at present .' Does the Commission
agree with this desription or will it endeavour to ensure that this text is corrected ?

Answer given by Mr Marin on behalf of the Commission

( 21 March 1997 )

1 . The Law on non-governmental organizations ( NGOs ) came into force on 26 December 1996 and requires
NGOs to register with the Interior Ministry, which is empowered to allow or refuse registration of an NGO . The
Commission made representations before the Law was adopted to point out the situation of European NGOs
operating in the country and obtain clarification of the Interior Ministry 's new function, which is defined in the
Law in ambiguous and imprecise terms .

The Commission shares the Honourable Member 's concern about the difficulties that NGOs could experience in
their work following the adoption of the Law — particularly those working in the human-rights field . So far, and
despite fears expressed by the latter group of NGOs, no concrete evidence has emerged of abuse of power by the
Salvadorian Interior Ministry .

The Commission continues to watch developments very carefully, however, and will if need be take the
necessary steps to ensure that the NGOs with which it collaborates are able to operate properly .

2 . The internal report to which the Honourable Member refers only repeated what had appeared in the
newspapers and does not, therefore, represent the opinion of the Commission .

( 97 / C 217 / 349 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0666 / 97

by Roberta Angehlli ( NI ) to the Commission

(6 March 1997 )

Subject : Excessively high levels of asbestos dust at the Atac depot at Grottarossa, Rome

The Atac ( municipal public transport ) depot at Grottarossa, which is housed in a former Fiat factory on the Via
Flaminia in Rome, consists of a number of very large sheds ( 100 metres by 20 metres ) whose sloping roofs are
lined with asbestos fibre panels .

According to employees at the depot, in addition to the roofing being 25 years old the ceilings are very low, as the
sheds were originally designed to house the cars produced in the old Fiat factory . Consequently, it is claimed,
there are dangerously high levels of asbestos dust in the air breathed every day by those working in the sheds in
question . Despite numerous complaints on the subject, Atac has never taken any action to change the asbestos
panels .

This situation would appear to be in flagrant breach of the provisions of directives 83 / 477 / EEC (') and
91 / 382 / EEC ( 2 ) on limiting the concentration of asbestos in the air at places of work . These directives appear to
have been incorporated into Italian legislation by means of various laws and regulations including DPR No 303
of 19 March 1956, DPR No 1 124 of 30 June 1965, Law No 833 of 23 December 1978 and Legislative Decree
No 277 of 15 August 1991 ( data taken from the CELEX data bank ).

What is the Commission 's opinion on this case ?

If it is ascertained that Community law has been breached, could the Commission announce whether it intends to
initiate any proceedings against Atac to make it comply with the legislation in force ?

(') OJ L 263, 24.9.1983, p . 25 .
( 2 ) OJ L 206, 29.7.1991, p . 16 .

Answer given by Mr Flynn on behalf of the Commission

(2 April 1997 )

The Commission would emphasise that from the moment that Italy completed the transposal into national law of
Council Directive 83 / 477 / EEC, as amended by Council Directive 91 / 382 / EEC of 25 June 1991, on the protection
of workers from the risks related to exposure to asbestos at work, application of the Directive became the
responsibility of the national authorities .

No C 217 / 224 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 7.7.97

( 97 / C 217 / 350 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0678 / 97

by Frederic Stnby ( I-EDN ) to the Commission

(6 March 1997 )

Subject : Commission subsidy for ASUD / JOURNAL

I should like to thank the Commission very much for its assistance to ASUD / JOURNAL ( Spring 1995 ), a
publication planned and produced by drug users and ex-users .

Can the Commission indicate from which programme and under what heading this financial support was
possible ?

Answer given by Mr Flynn on behalf of the Commission

(7 April 1997 )

The Commission granted a single subsidy of ECU 42 471 to the ASUD association ( F ) under the first ' Europe
against AIDS ' action plan ( 1991-93 ), for the purpose of producing a quarterly publication on the subject of AIDS
prevention, aimed specifically at drug addicts .

All the projects funded under the action plan were selected after consultation of the committee composed of
representatives of the Member States, as provided for in Article 1 of the Council Decision 91 / 317 / EEC of 4 June

1991 (') adopting the plan of action .

(') OJL 175, 4.7.1991 .

( 97 / C 217 / 351 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0679 / 97

by Frederic Striby ( I-EDN ) to the Commission

(6 March 1997 )

Subject : Statistics on the number of handicapped persons

NGOs and associations involved with handicapped persons and seeking to set up aid and support programmes
are often faced with problems in obtaining statistical information to enable them to tailor their programmes to the
number of handicapped persons and / or the nature of the handicaps in a given region .

Does the Commission have access to such information under Helios or other programmes ?

Answer given by Mr Flynn on behalf of the Commission

( 14 April 1997 )

In 1993 the Commission carried out a study on statistics relating to disabled persons . A copy of the report,
published by Eurostat ( references CA-88-95-008-FR-C ISBN 92-826-9653-7 ), which is an update of a study
carried out in 1 990, is on its way now to both the Honourable Member and the Parliament Secretariat .

However, the Honourable Member 's attention is drawn to the fact that, despite the large number of disabled
persons in the Community, generally estimated to be about 10% of the total population, this study does not
include statistical data from the three new Member States . Furthermore, comparison between Member States is
difficult because of differences concerning the definitions and data collection methods applied .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 225

( 97 / C 217 / 352 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0680 / 97

by Frederic Striby ( I-EDN ) to the Commission

(6 March 1997 )

Subject : Excise duties on mineral oils

Purchasing domestic fuel oil in a neighbouring Member State ( e.g. if a person resident in France buys it in
Germany ) is subject to a complicated procedure not generally known to the public at large, the intra-Community
movement of mineral oils remains an exception to the principle of the free movement of goods .

Can the Commission supply a list of the different excise duties on fuel ?

Answer given by Mr Monti on behalf of the Commission

( 15 April 1997 )

The Commission is sending the information requested direct to the Honourable Member and to Parliament 's
Secretariat .

( 97 / C 217 / 353 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0688 / 97

by Gerardo Fernandez               - Albor ( PPE ) to the Commission

(6 March 1997 )

Subject : European Committee on Employment

A leading politician from one of the Member States, speaking to journalists, wondered why, given that a
monetary committee exists, a European committee on employment has not also been set up .

Querying why no minimum social harmonization had been achieved, he emphasized that it was illogical that a
single market and freedom of competition should not be accompanied by minimum rules on social
harmonization .

Has the Commission been urged by any European political leader to expedite proceedings and studies in
connection with this issue, and does it believe that serious consideration could be given during the forthcoming
Luxembourg Presidency to the idea of setting up a European committee on employment ?

Answer given by Mr Flynn on behalf of the Commission

( 25 March 1997 )

On 20 December 1996, following the mandate given to it by the European Council, the Council adopted Decision
97 / 16 / EC setting up an Employment and Labour Market Committee (')• This Committee, which consists of
representatives of the Member States and the Commission, became operational at the beginning of this year . It is
destined to play a central role in defining and implementing European the strategy on employment as laid down
by the Essen and subsequent European Councils .

The Commission supports the proposal, being discussed in the context of the Intergovernmental Conference, for
the institutionalisation of the Committee in the revised Treaty .

(') OJ L 6, 10.1.1997 .

( 97 / C 217 / 354 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0694 / 97

by Nel van Dijk ( V ) to the Commission

(6 March 1997 )

Subject : Capture of hamsters in France

Has the Centre National de Recherche Scientifique ( CNRS ) in Strasbourg requested permission from the French
Minister of the Environment to capture hamsters in the departement of Bas-Rhin ?

No C 217 / 226 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

Is the capture of hamsters, for which a licence has always been granted in the past, a threat to the most viable
hamster population in Western Europe which, however, like all the other populations in Western Europe, is
visibly on the decrease despite the strict protection which the hamster should enjoy pursuant to Article 12 of the
habitats Directive, 92 / 43 / EEC (')?

Does the French government have any research data to indicate that the capture of hamsters in Bas-Rhin does not
harm the efforts to enable the species in question to continue living in its natural range at a favourable
conservation status, as laid down in Article 16 of the habitats directive ?

Did the Institut de Physiologie of the medical faculty in Strasbourg succeed in breeding hamsters two years ago ?
Does this not mean that no licence should be granted for the capture of hamsters inv the wild, given that Article

16 of the habitats directive permits such capture only if there is no satisfactory alternative ?

Has the French Minister of the Environment granted permission in recent years for the capture of hamsters in
Bas-Rhin ? Has the French government provided adequate justification for this decision in the biennial report on
derogations from the habitats directive which it should have forwarded to the Commission pursuant to Article

16 ?

Has the Fauna Committee of the Conseil National pour la Protection de la Nature recently advised the French
Minister of the Environment not to grant the CNRS permission for the capture of hamsters ?

Will the Commission try ( once again ) to make clear to the French government that France, too, is obliged to
comply with the habitats directive and that there can be no question of the capture of wild hamsters ?

(') OJ L 206, 22.7.1992, p . 7 .

Answer given by Mrs Bierregaard on behalf of the Commission

(9 April 1997 )

The Commission has asked the Member State concerned for information regarding the facts raised to by the
Honourable Member . It will inform her of its findings .

( 97 / C 217 / 355 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0696 / 97

by Leen van der Waal ( I-EDN ) to the Commission

(6 March 1997 )

Subject : Exploratory talks with Syria

I understand from the Dutch version of the minutes of the General Affairs Council of 20 January 1997 that in
March there will be a second round of exploratory talks with Syria on a Euro-Mediterranean treaty .

At the same time it appears from the press that Syria is rushing to stockpile arms, possibly including chemical
and biological weapons . The extent of this rearmament programme is far in excess of what Syria needs to protect
its own security, and it therefore constitutes a threat to the region . Furthermore, Syria has shown little willingness
to reach a peace settlement with Israel .

Moreover, the Syrian government continues to tolerate the fact that in the Syrian controlled part of the Lebanon
terrorist groups ( Hezbollah ) are being trained in preparation for terrorist attacks on Israel, not least with arms
supplied by Iran via Damascus . Finally, because of its involvement in international terrorism Syria is on an
American list of states against which sanctions may be applied .

1 . In the light of the foregoing, does the Commission regard it as opportune to conduct exploratory talks with
Syria ?

2 . Have there been any conditions imposed in the talks with Syria with regard to disarmament, a more
accommodating attitude in the peace process and an end to assistance to terrorist organizations, before real talks
on a Euro-Mediterranean treaty can start ?

17.7 . 97 EN Otticial Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 227

Answer given by Mr Marin on behalf of the Commission

( 26 March 1997 )

Like the other 1 1 Mediterranean partners, Syria has signed the Barcelona Declaration which, among other things,
establishes a political and security partnership calling for observance of the essential principles of international
law and reaffirming common objectives for internal and external stability .

The Euro-Mediterranean partnership also sets out to establish an economic and financial partnership providing
for — among other things — the gradual institution of a free-trade area through association agreements .

All this provides the framework for the exploratory talks to which the Honourable Member refers .

In accordance with the arrangements adopted by the Council on 29 May 1995 and the conclusions of the
Euro-Mediterranean conference held in Barcelona, any association agreement with Mediterranean partners must
state that respect for democratic principles and human rights is an essential part of it .

( 97 / C 217 / 356 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0697 / 97

by Francisca Sauquillo Perez del Arco ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 28 February 1997 )

Subject : Consultancy assisting the Commission with the management of budget item B7-6000

With regard to the open invitation to tender for a consultant to assist Unit B / 2 of GD VIII with the management
and control of projects submitted by NGOs for co-financing under budget item B7-6000 ('),

Does the Commission not believe that it is its duty, and not that of a private company, to manage and control
projects for co-financing ?

Is the Commission to be converted into a mere ' cashier ', abandoning its role in carrying out prior control of the
implementation of the budget ?

Has the Commission considered the possibility that assigning management tasks of this kind to a private
company or companies could be prejudicial to NGOs from Member States other than those of the adjudicating
companies ?

Is the Commission aware that it is jeopardizing the principle of the administration 's neutrality ?

(') OJ C 386, 20.12.1996, p . 13 .

Answer given by Mr Pinheiro on behalf of the Commission

( 24 March 1997 )

In the recent call for tender by the Commission for a consultant to assist in the management of budget line
B 7-6000 the Commission made it very clear that it fully retained its full decision making powers at all stages on
questions of the eligibility of non governmental organisations ( NGOs ) and selection and management of
projects . As the terms of the tender itself make clear, the aim was to seek purely technical assistance for
administrative support ( with a view to receiving NGOs ' documents in full accordance with the general conditions
for cofinancing ) and there was never any question of the consultant being given a role in policy issues nor of the
Commission becoming a simple cashier .

In the meantime, agreement has been reached in principle between the Commission and the liaison committee of
European development NGOs for the European NGOs themselves to take on greater responsibility for improving
the presentation of their files . At present discussions are taking place in the framework of the liaison committee
on the best way to organize this .

The Commission is now analysing the offers and no decision has yet been taken .

No C 217 / 228 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17.7 . 97

( 97 / C 217 / 357 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0791 / 97

by Jean-Yves Le Gallou ( NI ) to the Commission

( 10 March 1997 )

Subject : Operating appropriations of the European Institutions

The Committee on Budgets ' Working Document No 7 on the 1997 budget procedure mentions 1 200 studies
carried out by the Commission in 1995 under Part B of the budget .

Can the Commission provide :

1 . a complete list of the studies carried out in 1996 by the Commission under Part B ;

2 . the cost of each separate study ;

3 . the overall cost of the studies .

Answer given by Mr Liikanen on behalf of the Commission

( 16 April 1997 )

In view of the length of its answer, the Commission is sending it direct to the Honourable Member and to
Parliament 's Secretariat .

( 97 / C 217 / 358 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0797 / 97

by Jean                - Yves Le Gallou ( NI ) to the Commission

( 10 March 1997 )

Subject : Community subsidies to associations, NGOs and various other bodies

With regard to heading A-3040 ( Support for international and non-governmental youth organizations ), can the
Commission provide a complete list of associations and other bodies benefiting from Community subsidies and
the exact amount of these subsidies for the last completed budgetary year, i.e. 1996 ?

Answer given by Mrs Cresson on behalf of the Commission

( 10 April 1997 )

The Commission is sending the information requested direct to the Honourable Member and to Parliament 's
Secretariat .

( 97 / C 217 / 359 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0799 / 97

by Jean-Yves Le Gallou ( NI ) to the Commission

( 10 March 1997 )

Subject : Community subsidies to associations, NGOs and various other bodies

With regard to heading B3-101 ( Youth for Europe ), can the Commission provide a complete list of associations
and other bodies benefiting from Community subsidies and the exact amount of these subsidies for the last
completed budgetary year, i.e. 1996 ?

Answer given by Mrs Cresson on behalf of the Commission

( 17 April 1997 )

The Commission is collecting the information it needs to answer the question . It will communicate its findings as
soon as possible .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 229

( 97 / C 217 / 360 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0802 / 97

by Jean                - Yves Le Gallou ( NI ) to the Commission

( 10 March 1997 )

Subject : Community subsidies to associations, NGOs and various other bodies

With regard to heading B3-41 10 ( Free movement of workers and measures to benefit migrants, campaign against
racism and xenophobia ), can the Commission provide a complete list of associations and other bodies benefiting
from Community subsidies and the exact amount of these subsidies for the last completed budgetary year, i.e.

1996 ?

Answer given by Mr Flynn on behalf of the Commission

( 14 April 1997 )

The Commission is sending direct to the Honourable Member and to Parliament 's Secretariat a computer
print-out containing the information requested .

( 97 / C 217 / 361 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0805 / 97

by Jean                - Yves Le Gallou ( NI ) to the Commission

( 10 March 1997 )

Subject : Community subsidies to associations, NGOs and various other bodies

With regard to heading B7-210 ( Emergency food aid for developing countries and others hit by disasters or
serious crises ), can the Commission provide a complete list of associations, NGOs and other bodies benefiting
from Community subsidies and the exact amount of these subsidies for the last completed budgetary year, i.e.

1996 ?

Answer given by Mrs Bonino on behalf of the Commission

( 15 April 1997 )

The Commission is sending direct to the Honourable Member and to Parliament 's Secretariat a table containing
the information requested .

( 97 / C 217 / 362 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0806 / 97

by Jean                 - Yves Le Gallou ( NI ) to the Commission

( 10 March 1997 )

Subject : Community subsidies to associations, NGOs and various other bodies

With regard to heading B7-217 ( Operations to help refugees and displaced persons ), can the Commission provide
a complete list of associations, NGOs and other bodies benefiting from Community subsidies and the exact
amount of these subsidies for the last completed budgetary year, i.e. 1996 ?

Answer given by Mrs Bonino on behalf of the Commission

( 15 April 1997 )

The Commission is sending direct to the Honourable Member and to Parliament 's Secretariat a table containing
the information requested .

No C 217 / 230 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17 . 7 . 97

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 363 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0808 / 97

by Jean-Yves Le Gallou ( NI ) to the Commission

( 10 March 1997 )

Subject : Community subsidies to associations, NGOs and various other bodies

With regard to heading B7-6007 ( Support for non-governmental organizations working for the Kurdish
refugees ), can the Commission provide a complete list of associations, NGOs and other bodies benefiting from
Community subsidies and the exact amount of these subsidies for the last completed budgetary year, i.e. 1996 ?

Answer given by Mr Marin on behalf of the Commission

( 26 March 1997 )

Organization Project

Community
co-financing

grant
( ECU )

550 000

International Catholic

Migration Commission

Income creating activities for Kurdish women by setting
up village cooperatives

Association DIA Agricultural development and social integration 400 000

Heidelberg International Rehabilitation and income creation 500 000

The Qandil project Water-supply project 550 000

Associazione di Rehabilitation

Cooperazione allo Sviluppo

Rehabilitation of farming and income creation 550 000

France Libertés Programme of rehabilitation of vital infrastructures,
assistance for agriculture and business creation in Taq-Taq

( 97 / C 217 / 364 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0813 / 97

by Jean             - Yves Le Gallou ( NI ) to the Commission

( 10 March 1997 )

Subject : Community subsidies to associations, NGOs and various other bodies

450 000

With regard to heading B7-610 ( Training and promotion of awareness of development issues ), can the
Commission provide a complete list of associations, NGOs and other bodies benefiting from Community
subsidies and the exact amount of these subsidies for the last completed budgetary year, i.e. 1996 ?

Answer given by Mr Pinheiro on behalf of the Commission

( 16 April 1997 )

The Commission is sending direct to the Honourable Member and to Parliament 's Secretariat a table containing
the information requested .

( 97 / C 217 / 365 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0815 / 97

by Jean             - Yves Le Gallou ( NI ) to the Commission

( 10 March 1997 )

Subject : Community subsidies to associations, NGOs and various other bodies

With regard to heading B7-6200 ( Environment in the developing countries ), can the Commission provide a
complete list of associations, NGOs and other bodies benefiting from Community subsidies and the exact
amount of these subsidies for the last completed budgetary year, i.e. 1996 ?

17.7.97 ΓΕΝΠ Official Journal of th § European Communities No C 217 / 231

Answer given by Mr Mann on behalf of the Commission

( 11 April 1997 )

In view of the length of its answer, the Commission is sending it direct to the Honourable Member and to
Parliament 's Secretariat .

( 97 / C 2 1 7 / 366 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0819 / 97

by Jean                - Yves Le Gallou ( NI ) to the Commission

( 10 March 1997 )

Subject : Community subsidies to associations, NGOs and various other bodies

With regard to heading B7-641 ( Rehabiliation and reconstruction measures for developing countries ), can the
Commission provide a complete list of associations, NGOs and other bodies benefiting from Community
subsidies and the exact amount of these subsidies for the last completed budgetary year, i.e. 1996 ?

Answer given by Mr Pinheiro on behalf of the Commission

( 16 April 1997 )

The Commission is sending the information requested direct to the Honourable Member and to Parliament 's
Secretariat .

( 97 / C 217 / 367 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0821 / 97

by Jean                 - Yves Le Gallou ( NI ) to the Commission

( 10 March 1997 )

Subject : Community subsidies to associations, NGOs and various other bodies

With regard to heading B7-7000 ( Programme for democracy in the countries of central and eastern Europe ), can
the Commission provide a complete list of associations, NGOs and other bodies benefiting from Community
subsidies and the exact amount of these subsidies for the last completed budgetary year, i.e. 1996 ?

( 91 IC 217 / 368 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0822 / 97

by Jean-Yves Le Gallou ( NI ) to the Commission

( 10 March 1997 )

Subject : Community subsidies to associations, NGOs and various other bodies

With regard to heading B7-701 ( Support for democracy in the Independent States of the former Soviet Union ),
can the Commission provide a complete list of associations, NGOs and other bodies benefiting from Community
subsidies and the exact amount of these subsidies for the last completed budgetary year, i.e. 1996 ?

Joint answer

to Written Questions E-0821 / 97 and E-0822 / 97
given by Mr Van den Broek on behalf of the Commission

( 14 April 1997 )

The Commission is sending direct to the Honourable Member and to Parliament 's Secretariat a table containing
the information requested .

No C 217 / 232 EN Official Journal of the European Communities 17.7.97

( 97 / C 217 / 369 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0823 / 97

by Jean                 - Yves Le Gallou ( NI ) to the Commission

( 10 March 1997 )

Subject : Community subsidies to associations, NGOs and various other bodies

With regard to heading B7-702 ( Human rights and democracy in the developing countries ), can the Commission
provide a complete list of associations, NGOs and other bodies benefiting from Community subsidies and the
exact amount of these subsidies for the last completed budgetary year, i.e. 1996 ?

Answer given by Mr Pinheiro on behalf of the Commission

( 16 April 1997 )

In view of the length of its answer, the Commission is sending it direct to the Honourable Member and to
Parliament 's Secretariat .

( 97 / C 217 / 370 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0824 / 97

by Jean                - Yves Le Gallou ( NI ) to the Commission

( 10 March 1997 )

Subject : Community subsidies to associations, NGOs and various other bodies

With regard to heading B7-703 ( Democratization process in Latin America ), can the Commission provide a
complete list of associations, NGOs and other bodies benefiting from Community subsidies and the exact
amount of these subsidies for the last completed budgetary year, i.e. 1996 ?

Answer given by Mr Marin on behalf of the Commission

( 10 April 1997 )

In view of the length of its answer, the Commission is sending it direct to the Honourable Member and to
Parliament 's Secretariat .

( 97 / C 217 / 371 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0837 / 97

by Anita Pollack ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 10 March 1997 )

Subject : Energy ratio improvement figures

Can the Commission list the energy ratio improvement in each Member State and in the EU as a whole over the
last 10 years and also over the last two five-year periods ?

Answer given by Mr de Silguy on behalf of the Commission

( 18 April 1997 )

The Commission is sending direct to the Honourable Member and to Parliament s Secretariat a table containing
the information requested .

17.7.97 EN Official Journal of the European Communities No C 217 / 233

( 97 / C 217 / 372 ) WRITTEN QUESTION P-0854 / 97

by Per Gahrton ( V ) to the Commission

(5 March 1997 )

Subject : Handling of a written complaint

In a written complaint to the Commission of 1 March 1995, the plaintiff, Mr Reinhard Helmers of Lund
( Sweden ), made a complaint against the Swedish government on account of alleged breaches of the principle of
equal pay laid down in Article 7 of Regulation ( EEC ) No 1612 / 68 (') of 15 October 1968 . Notwithstanding the
rules, the plaintiff has not received confirmation of receipt . Moreover, the Commission 's office in Denmark
stated in a letter of 16 August 1996 to the plaintiff that they had tried without success to trace his complaint in
Brussels, which the plaintiff takes to mean that the Commission is trying to sweep his complaint under the carpet
by not recording its receipt . The plaintiff believes that one possible reason for this could be that the
Directorate-General responsible, DG V, is now headed by Allan Larsson, who was a member of the Swedish
government whose actions are the subject of the complaint . The plaintiff subsequently wrote to the President of
the Commission about this matter (1 September 1996 ) and addressed his written complaint to the Commission
again ( 16 November 1996 ).

In view of this, will the Commission say when it received the aforementioned complaint from Reinhard Helmers
of Lund ( Sweden ), when it sent out a confirmation of receipt to him, and how and by whom his complaint is
being handled ? Has it contacted Mr Helmers, in accordance with the rules, in order to keep him informed of the
action taken ? What steps will it take as regards this complaint ?

(') OJ L 257, 19.10.1968, p . 2 .

Answer given by Mr Flynn on behalf of the Commission

(4 April 1997 )

The Commission wishes to inform the Honourable Member that the complaint to which he refers has been
investigated thoroughly .

An explanation of the resultant appraisal, from the point of view of Community law, was given in letters dated
6 February 1 996 and 9 April 1 996, in which the plaintiff was informed that the Community rules were not
applicable in his particular case .

Moreover, it should be noted that a petition which the plaintiff had also presented to the Parliament ( No 321 / 94 )
was wound up in 1995 .

( 97 / C 217 / 373 ) WRITTEN QUESTION E-0881 / 97

by Wilmya Zimmermann ( PSE ) to the Commission

( 12 March 1997 )

Subject : Declaration of intent : ' Europe against racism '

On 30 and 31 January 1997 the European Year Against Racism and Xenophobia was inaugurated in The Hague .
A ' Declaration of intent : ' Europe Against Racism " was distributed to those attending the opening ceremony in
Dutch, English, French and German .

Can the Commission state why this declaration was distributed only in these four official languages and not in all
eleven official languages of the European Union ?

Answer given by Mr Flynn on behalf of the Commission

(4 April 1997 )

The opening conference of the European year against racism was organised by the Commission in cooperation
with the Netherlands'Presidency . The budget was limited and it was therefore decided to have translation of all
documents in German, Dutch, French and English . The declaration of intent was available in these languages as
well .

As the Commission is now seeking to promote the signature of this declaration by key decision makers in the
Community, it will translate it into all official languages .