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_^ ^ ^_ / * / * • - "1 T " "I ISSN 0378-6986
# Oihcial Journal C315

_r_ 1 T - ^ . . Volume 34
### or the huropean Communities 5D«mi«i99i

#### English edition Information and Notices

Notice No Contents Page

I _Information_

European Parliament

_Written Questions with answer_

91/C 315/01 No 716/89 by Mr Karl von Wogau to the Commission
Subject: Plant protection certificates and the free movement of goods (Supplementary answer) 1

91 / C 315/02 No 2310/90 by Mr Karl von Wogau to the Commission
Subject: Standard provisions on electrical installation 1

91/C 315/03 No 2725/90 by Mr Gerhard Schmid to the Commission
Subject: Acidic corrosion of books 2

91/C 315/04 No 2851/90 by Mr James Elles to the Commission
Subject: Trade and cooperation with Central and Eastern European countries 3

91 / C 315/05 No 3019/90 by Mr Gerardo Fernandez-Albor to the Commission
Subject: Community harmonization of tax identification codes 3

91/C 315/06 No 130/91 by Mr Madron Seligman to the Commission
Subject: Greek conscientious objectors 4

91/C 315/07 No 141/91 by Mr Jose Valverde Lopez to the Commission
Subject: Widespread illegal use of clenbuterol in Spain 4

91/C 315/08 No 158/91 by Mr Jean-Pierre Raffarin to the Commission

Subject: Hake stocks 5

91/C 315/09 No 171/91 by Mr Jean-Pierre Raffarin to the Commission
Subject: Comparative advertising in the European Community 5

91/C 315/10 No 215/91 by Mr Louis Laugato the Commission
Subject: Herring fishing 5

2 (Continued overleaf)

Notice No Contents (continued) Pa e

91/C 315/11 No 281/91 by Mr Herman Verbeek to the Commission

Subject: Genetic engineering in animals 6

91/C 315/12 No 330/91 by Mr Carlos Robles Piquer to the Commission

Subject: Spanish and Portuguese scientific staff in the JRC 6

91/C 315/13 No 354/91 by Mr Joachim Dalsass to the Commission

Subject: Audi 90 Quattro, equipped with a catalytic converter 7

91/C 315/14 No 390/91 by Mr Antonio La Pergola to the Commission

Subject: Earthquake on 12 December in eastern Sicily 7

91/C 315/15 No 406/91 by Mr Hemmo Muntingh to the Commission

Subject: Flare stacks in the OPEC countries g

91/C 315/16 No 460/91 by Mr Gordon Adam to the Commission

Subject: Funding for Research Councils in the UK g

91 / C 315/17 No 516/91 by Mr Henry Chabert to the Commission

Subject: The Euro-Arab University project 9

91/C 315/18 No 533/91 by Mr Virginio Bettini to the Commission

Subject: Implementation of the budget of the European Communities 9

91/C 315/19 No 595/91 by Mr Sotiris Kostopoulos to the Commission

Subject: Failure of the EEC Information Office in Athens and the 'European News' to provide
Greek citizens with sufficient information 10

91/C 315/20 No 601/91 by Mr Madron Seligman to the Commission

Subject: Use of Panasonic cordless phone, sold in Spain, said to be illegal in the UK 11

91/C 315/21 No 602/91 by Mr Madron Seligman to the Commission
Subject: Slaughter of whales in the Faroes 12

91 /C 315/22 No 620/91 by Mr Madron Seligman to the Commission

Subject: Estimating progress in saving energy in each Member State (Supplementary answer) .. 12

91 / C 315/23 No 621 /91 by Mr Madron Seligman to the Commission

Subject: Building regulations for the insulations of homes 13

91/C 315/24 No 623/91 by Mr Madron Seligman to the Commission

Subject: Building regulations for the insulation of homes 14

91/C 315/25 No 646/91 by Mr Jesus Cabez6n Alonso to the Commission

Subject: European Social Fund in Cantabria (Spain) in 1990 14

91/C315/26 No 655/91 by Mr Arturo Escuder Croft to the Commission

Subject: Integrated development plan in the Canaries 14

91/C 315/27 No 665/91 by Mr Francesco Speroni to the Commission

Subject: Entry into Community territory of immigrants from the Swiss Confederation 15

91/C 315/28 No 678/91 by Mr Diego de los Santos Lopez to the Commission
Subject: Swine fever 1 c

Notice No Contents (continued)

91/C 315/29 No 700/91 by Mr Wilfried Telkamper to the Commission
Subject: Incorporation of the Directive on environmental impact assessment into German law 16

91 / C 315/30 No 705/91 by Mr Barry Desmond to the Commission
Subject: Aquaculture growth and sea trout decline in Ireland 17

91/C 315/31 No 717/91 by Mr Brian Simpson to the Commission

Subject: Age of civil aircraft 17

91/C 315/32 No 722/91 by the following members: Karl-Heinz Mihr, Fritz Pirkl, Madron
Seligman, Karl Partsch, Heinz Kohler, Detlev Samland, Peter Crampton and Franz
Stauffenberg to the Commission
Subject: Membership application by the Republic of Austria 18

91/C 315/33 No 732/91 by Mr Eisso Woltjer to the Commission
Subject: Accuracy of European Community cereal production figures 18

91/C 315/34 No 743/91 by Mr Maxime Verhagen to the Commission
Subject: Relations between the Commission and the Suriname Government 19

91/C 315/35 No 820/91 by Mr Thomas Megahy to the Commission

Subject: Depletion of the tropical rain forests 19

91/C 315/36 No 865/91 by Mrs Solange Fernex to the Council
Subject: Monitoring of arms sales in the Member States . 20

91/C 315/37 No 871/91 by Mr Jose Torres Couto to the Commission
Subject: Raw sugar supplies 20

91/C 315/38 No 882/91 by Mr Friedrich Merz to the Commission
Subject: PHARE programme 21

91/C 315/39 No 885/91 by Mr Anthony Simpson to the Commission

Subject: Aerial border crossing after 1992 22

91/C 315/40 No 890/91 by Mrs Ulla Sandbaek to the Commission

Subject: Asbestos                   - 22

91/C 315/41 No 898/91 by Mrs Anita Pollack to the Commission

Subject: Bathing water directive 23

91/C 315/42 No 969/91 by Mr Gerardo Nandez-Albor to the Commission
Subject: Conversion of the Astano shipyard, Spain 23

91 / C 315/43 No 984/91 by Mr Alain Marleix to the Commission
Subject: Milk reference quantities 24

91/C315/44 No 986/91 by MrAlain Marleix to the Commission

Subject: Dairy farmers in mountain areas 24

91/C 315/45 No 1019/91 by Mr Honor Funk to the Commission
Subject: EC aid to Baden-Wurttemberg 1985—1989 24

91/C 315/46 No 1024/91 by Mrs Ursula Braun-Moser to the Commission
Subject: EC membership for Eastern European countries 25

(Continued overleaf)

Contents (continued)

91/C 315/47 No 1028/91 by Mr Jean-Pierre Raffarin to the Commission

Subject: Extension of ERDF Objective No 2 25

91/C 315/48 No 1030/91 by Mr Jean-Pierre Raffarin to the Commission

Subject: Consumption of minced meat 25

91/C315/49 No 1039/91 by Mr Herman Verbeek to the Commission

Subject: Report on 'The regions in the 1990s' with regard to rural areas 26

91/C 315/50 No 1055/91 by Mr Jesus Cabezon AlonsoandMr Jose Pons Grau to the Commission
Subject: Referendum on the Western Sahara 27

91/C 315/51 No 1059/91 by Mr Gerhard Schmid to the Commission

Subject: The right of psychologists to practise as psychotherapists in the future internal market 27

91/C315/52 No 1079/91 by Mr Gerard Monnier-Besombes to the Commission

Subject: Damage to the environment caused by Community-funded projects 28

91/C315/53 No 1087/91 by Mr Madron Seligman to the Commission

Subject: Illegal sale of thrush pate 28

91/C315/54 No 1089/91 by Mrs Winifred Ewing to the Commission

Subject: EC fishing vessels affected by the eight-day tie-up 29

91/C 315/55 No 1098/91 by Mr Dieter Rogalla to the Council

Subject: Free movement of persons 29

91 / C 315/56 No 1115/91 by Mr Anthony Simpson to the Commission
Subject: CAP 30

91/C 315/57 No 1122/91 by Mr Diego delos Santos Lopez to the Commission
Subject: Identification mark for equidae 30

91/C 315/58 No 1131/91 by Mr Mihail Papayannakis to the Commission
Subject: Crop spraying in Greece 30

91/C 315/59 No 1152/91 by Mrs RaymondeDury to the Council

Subject: A reference to comments attributed to the EEC 31

91/C 315/60 No 1171/91 by Mrs RaymondeDury to the Council

Subject: Recycling of developing countries' debt 32

91/C 315/61 No 1195/91 by Mr Willem van Velzen to the Commission
Subject: Transfrontier undertakings 32

91/C 315/62 No 1198/91 by Mr Ian White to the Commission

Subject: Health care for workers within the Food Industry 32

91/C 315/63 No 1209/91 by Mr Jose Happart to the Commission
Subject: Agricultural stocks 33

91/C 315/64 No 1235/91 by Mr Manuel Medina Ortega to the Commission

Subject: Export of onions from the Canaries 33

(Continued on page 46)

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Contents (continued) p »e e

No 1250/91 by Mr Jean-Pierre Raf f arin to the Commission
Subject: Community aid for the Poitiers-Futuroscope-Chatellerault area 34

No 1258/91 by Mrs Christine Oddy to the Commission

Subject: Price of sheepmeat and subsidies 34

No 1259/91 by Mrs Christine Oddy to the Commission
Subject: Model scheme for information on rural development initiatives and agricultural
3 5
markets (MIRIAM) - • •

No 1267/91 by Mr Yves Verwaerde to the Council
Subject: Combating drugs 35

No 1274/91 by Mr Ian White to the Commission
Subject: Greyhound breeding 3 "

No 1280/91 by Mr Ernest Glinne to the Council
Subject: Shortcomings of the World Health Organisation 36

No 1288/91 by Mr Terence Wynn to the Commission
Subject: Reform of the CAP 3 7

No 1333/91 by the following members: Renzo Imbeni, Roberto Barzanti, Rinaldo
Bontempi, Luciana Castellina, Fernando Perez Royo, Luigi Colajanni, Renzo Trivelli
and Luciano Vecchi to the Commission

Subject: Situation of the Palestinian universities since January 1988 37

No 1347/91 by Mr Elio Di Rupo to the Commission
Subject: Scientific cooperation with Israel 38

No 1444/91 by Mr Hugh McMahon to the Commission
Subject: Technology for the Socio-Economic Integration of Disabled and Elderly People
(TIDE) 3 8

No 1450/91 by Mr Giinter Topmann to the Commission
Subject: Incorporating Technical Directive TRS 006 (Technical Directive on Roads, Federal
3
Republic of Germany) in the ADR Agreement - • • • ^

No 1453/91 by Mr Floras Wijsenbeek to the Commission
Subject: Delays for goods traffic at Venlo 39

No 1477/91 by Mrs Brigitte Ernst de la Graete to the Commission
Subject: EEC-China Agreement and human rights in China 39

No 1482/91 by Mr Jean-Pierre Raffarin to the Commission
Subject: Assistance for university programmes in Poitou-Charentes 40

No 1513/91 by Mr Madron Seligman to the Commission
Subject: Unjustifiable duty on masa flour 40

No 1555/91 by Mrs Winifred Ewing to the Council

Subject: EC aid to Cambodia

No 1570/91 by Mr Gerardo Fernandez-Albor to the Commission
Subject: The promotion of cooperation and mergers in the Community iron and steel industry 41

No 1597/91 by Mrs Ursula Schleicher to the Commission
Subject: Construction of a motorway in the Algarve, bridge over the Rio Guadiana 42

Notice No Contents (continued)

91/C 315/83 No 1617/91 by Mr Sotiris Kostopoulos to the Commission

Subject: Immediate removal of restrictions on currency exchange transactions for businessmen 42

91/C 315/84 No 1620/91 by Mr Madron Seligman to the Commission

Subject: Licensed aircraft maintenance engineer 42

91/C315/85 No 1697/91 by Mr Carlos Robles Piquer to the Commission

Subject: Complaints against the Community from the President of Chile 43

91/C 315/86 No 1798/91 by Mr Sergio Ribeiro to the Commission

Subject: Extension of bilateral textile agreements to Indonesia and East Timor 44

91/C 315/87 No 1887/91 by Mr Elio Di Rupo to the Commission

Subject: Amendment of Regulation (EEC) No 123/85 44

Corrigenda

91/C 315/88 Corrigendum to Written Question No 340/91 by Mr Jaak Vandemeulebrouke (ARC) to the
Commission of the European Communities (Official Journal of the European Communities No
C 210 of 12 August 1991) 45

5. 12. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 315/1

_(Information)_

##### EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT

WRITTEN QUESTIONS WITH ANSWER

WRITTEN QUESTION No 716/89

by Mr Karl von Wogau (PPE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(14 November 1989)_

(91/C 315/01)

_Subject:_ Plant protection certificates and the free
movement of goods

The Italian authorities now require Italian importers of
Community goods subject to market regulations, e.g.
cereals, to submit a plant protection certificate in respect
of each consignment of goods in addition to the
customary guarantee certificate (form T2), export
dispatch certificate and invoice.

Does the Commission know about the Italian authorities'

measure? Was the measure agreed with and approved by
the Commission? If not, will the Commission take steps
against this additional administrative obstacle to the free
movement of goods?

Supplementary answer given by Mr Mac Sharry
on behalf of the Commission

_(26 July 1991)_

Further to its answer of 26 January 1990 ('), the
Commission would inform the Honourable Member that,
following the service-of-notice letter sent to the Italian
authorities, the latter have amended the rules in question.

Under the new decree published in the Gazzetta Ufficiale
of 20 February 1991 ( [2] ), a plant health certificate and
inspection are no longer required in respect of grain
imported from other Member States.

A decision has accordingly been taken by the Commission
to close this dossier.

O OJNoC 117,11.5.1990.
O GU43.20.2. 1991.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2310/90

by Mr Karl von Wogau (PPE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(15 October 1990)_

(91/C 315/02)

_Subject:_ Standard provisions on electrical installation

1. What steps does the Commission propose to take to
harmonize provisions on electrical installations in the
Community?

2. Is the Commission aware that UNERG, the Belgian
electricity supply company, will not connect a building to
the national grid unless the building's electrical
installations have been inspected by a test engineer
licensed in Belgium?

3. Is it aware that German side-earthed safety plugs,
which comply with German DIN regulations, cannot be
used in Belgium because Belgian sockets have a central
earthing pin and German sockets may not be fitted in
Belgium?

4. Does the Commission share my view that failure to
harmonize technical standards for electrical installations

within the European Community creates barriers to trade
and obstructs free movement of goods?

Answer given by Mr Bangemann
on behalf of the Commission

_(6 May 1990)_

1. The Council Directive of 19 February 1973 on
electrical equipment intended for use within certain
voltage limits — the so-called Low Voltage Directive
(73/23/EEC) O does not cover household plugs and

No C 315/2
Official Journal of the European Communities 5. 12. 91

sockets. However, Article 4 of that Directive provides
that Member States shall ensure that electricity
distribution companies do not subject connection to the
grid and the supply of consumers with electricity to the
type of electrical equipment used.

2. Approval of an electrical system by a qualified
engineer must be considered as an intention to protect
public health and safety. However, it is clear that
measures of this type must not affect the free movement
of goods and persons.

3. As regards plugs and power sockets for household
and similar uses the Honourable Member is invited to

consult the answer given to Written Question
No 2592/88 by Mr Vanlerenberghe _et_ _al(_ _[2]_ _)._ In view of
their concern for a high level of safety most Member
States apply regulations (drawn up either by a public
authority or by the electricity distribution companies)
which regulate the fitting, on their territory, of a specific
type of socket.

These regulations differ and sometimes vary widely from
one Member State to another.

Mutual recognition and acceptance of all existing types of
plug and socket would introduce several forms of hazard
and produce a rash of adaptors.

One solution could be the adoption of a harmonized
European standard for a relatively long transitional
period. This would provide a safe effective response while
maintaining the free movement of goods and continuing
to serve consumer interests.

The European standardization body has had a standard
adopted on 2.5 A plugs, known as 'Europlugs', which are
used with widely sold household appliances.

On the other hand the work on standardizing side-earth
plugs and sockets have still not been completed. In view of
the current difficulties the European standardization
body recently decided to suspend its activities while
awaiting a better climate for reaching an agreement.

For the time being the Commission is assessing the
situation and examining what action should be taken.

4. The Commission is aware of the adverse impact of
various national standards on the free movement of

goods. The Green Paper on the development of European
standardization of 8 October 1990 ( [3] ) urges the European
standardization bodies to expand and speed up their
activities in order to minimize those obstacles. The

introduction to the Green Paper makes a special case of

electrical plugs and sockets in order to identify standard
harmonization needs in order to meet consumer demand.

0) OJNoL 77, 26. 3. 1973.
O OJNoC208, 14. 8. 1989.
O OJ No C 20, 28. 1.1991.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2725/90

by Mr Gerhard Schmid (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(10 December 1990)_

(91/C 315/03)

_Subject:_ Acidic corrosion of books

The 'self-destruction' of books manufactured with 'acid

paper', a method which has been used since the last
century, is becoming increasingly frequent. The results of
a survey by the German Library Institute in Berlin show
that 10% of scientific works are affected in the FRG

alone.

1. Is the Commission aware of this process and does this
occur in other Member States of the EC?

2. Has the Commission considered measures to prevent
the destruction of these repositories of human
knowledge?

3. What forms of cooperation within the EC does the
Commission consider to be necessary?

Answer given by Mr Pandolfi
on behalf of the Commission

_(4 April 1991)_

1. Both the Commission and the Member States are

aware of this process. The Commission in its
communication 'Books and reading: a cultural challenge
for Europe' (COM(89) 258 final) drew attention to the
need for closer cooperation between libraries and the
international organizations involved, as did the Council
and Cultural Affairs Ministers meeting within the Council
in their decision of 18 May 1989; the possibility of
publicity campaigns to encourage the use of acid-free
paper was considered, amongst other measures. The
European Committee for Standardization (CEN) is
already drawing up standards for the composition of

paper.

2. The Commission is not responsible for measures to
stabilize aluminous paper used at an earlier date;
however, by supporting relevant R&D projects, the
Commission can help to develop restoration processes.

5. 12. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 315/3

3. Since this is a Europe-wide problem, there is clearly
a need for joint research to identify the causes and
mechanisms of this deterioration and to develop and
improve remedial measures on the basis of scientific
evidence. The Commission has already begun to look into
this problem under the STEP R&D programme (Science
and Technology for Environmental Protection
(1989—1992)) ('); two coordinated research projects on
this subject have so far received support.

O OJNoL359,8. 12. 1989.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2851/90

by Mr James Elles (ED)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(17 December 1990)_

(91/C 315/04)

_Subject:_ Trade and cooperation with Central and Eastern
European countries

Trade and cooperation agreements have now been signed
between the European Community and several Central
and Eastern European countries. Has the European
Commission made any analysis of what effect these
agreements will have on imports of primary and
secondary products from these countries to the European
Community? Does the Commission have any estimate of
what the growth in this trade would mean to employment
within the European Community?

Answer given by Mr Andriessen
on behalf of the Commission

_(13 September 1991)_

Between October 1988 and March 1991, the European
Community concluded bilateral trade and cooperation
agreements with each of the Central and Eastern
European countries. These agreements are
non-preferential. The contracting parties grant
one-another most favoured nation status. ECSC products
and textiles are not included in the agreements. These
agreements thus constitute merely a normalization of
trade relations.

In order to support their transition to democracy and
market economies, the Community further decided to
abolish or suspend quantitative restrictions and to grant a
generalized system of preferences treatment. As the
Honourable Member knows, the Community is presently
negotiating association agreements with three Central
and East European countries, which will include further
trade liberalization. In its resolution of 18 April 1991
drafted by Mrs Randzio-Plath, the European Parliament
fully supports these negotiations.

Our imports from the five central and east European
countries increased from ECU 12 082 million in 1989 to

ECU 12 967 million in 1990 ( + 7,3%). Various
manufactured goods seem to be amongst the fastest
growers. EC exports to the region increased by 4,5%
(from ECU 11 484 million in 1989 to ECU 12 006 million
in 1990).

The Commission is convinced that development of
international trade leads to mutually beneficial results:
possible losses in some economic sectors will be more than
compensated in other sectors, where the respective
partners have comparative advantage.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 3019/90

by Mr Gerardo Fernandez-Albor (PPE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(28 January 1991)_

(91/C 315/05)

_Subject:_ Community harmonization of tax identification
codes

Various Community countries have introduced a tax
identification code which is necessary for engaging in any
type of financial or trading activity and makes it possible
to carry out fiscal supervision of such activities conducted
by individuals or companies.

However, the systems used by the countries which have
introduced the codes vary and as a result Community
citizens who acquire goods or hold bank accounts in
Community countries other than their own are obliged to
have a different tax identification code for each country.

Does the Commission therefore think that it should

propose a single system and a single tax identification
code for every Community citizen which would be valid
throughout the Community?

Answer given by Mrs Scrivener
on behalf of the Commission

_(5 September 1991)_

The Commission does not consider that the imposition of
a generalized Community-wide system of unique fiscal
identification codes would be justified by its likely
benefits at this juncture. However, where a clear need
arises, as in the case of the post-1992 intra-Community
VAT regime, a system for the mutual recognition of
traders' VAT registration numbers incorporating national
code identifiers, is being developed.

No C 315/4 Official Journal of the European Communities 5. 12. 91

WRITTEN QUESTION No 130/91

by Mr Madron Seligman (ED)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(11 February 1991)_

(91/C 315/06)

_Subject:_ Greek conscientious objectors

Whilst Members of Parliament fully appreciate that the
Commission does not have legal competence to involve
itself in all matters of serious public concern, there is a
growing cynicism among ordinary people at the perceived
discrepancy between its very considerable powers in some
matters and its inability to act in others.

A case in point concerns the treatment of religious
conscientious objectors in some Greek prisons. Granted
that a Member State retains the right — rarely exercised
in Europe — to regard a conscientious objector as a
criminal (rather than requiring of the objector some other
form of public service, which certainly should not be a
'soft option' in relation to conscription), that state should
not subject such people to greater humiliation,
overcrowding or deprivation than other criminals in the
same prison. There is mounting evidence of abuse of
human rights even to the point of deliberately fouling the
limited supply of food given to this group.

Surely the Commission can speak out against abuse of
human rights as, indeed, it has done on behalf of the
inmates of mental hospitals on Leros island?

Answer given by Mr Delors
on behalf of the Commission

_(21 May 1991)_

The Commission is aware of the political nature of the
problem raised by the Honourable Member and of the
possible reaction of ordinary people to the differences
between Member States' legislation on the status of
conscientious objectors. This is, however, a field in which
the Commission has no powers.

It would appear that Parliament is content with this state
of affairs: the interim report on behalf of its Committee
on Institutional Affairs (A3-163/90/Part B), which served
as the basis for the resolution of 12 July 1990 on the
principle of subsidiarity, includes civil liberties (freedom
of the press, freedom of conscience and freedom of
religion) among the areas where powers should not be
removed from the Member States.

the Commission acted within its powers in helping the
Greek authorities to remedy the situation on Leros by
providing financial assistance under Regulation (EEC)
No 815/84 O and, in accordance with the letter and spirit
of the Regulation, by organizing technical assistance and
initiatives involving professionals and volunteers from
other Member States.

O OJNoL88,31.3.1984.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 141/91

by Mr Jose Valverde Lopez (PPE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(11 February 1991)_

(91/C 315/07)

_Subject:_ Widespread illegal use of clenbuterol in Spain

It has been discovered that there are clandestine

laboratories in various regions of Spain producing
clenbuterol and that other beta-agonist products are
being used illegally. What information does the
Commission have on these fraudulent and illegal practices
in Spain and what steps is it taking to control them?

Answer given by Mr Mac Sharry
on behalf of the Commission

_(26 July 1991)_

Under Article 5 of Council Directive 86/469/EEC O

concerning the examination of animals and fresh meat for
the presence of residues, the Commission is currently
carrying out on-the-spot checks in all the Member States
in order to ensure proper application by the Member
States of the Community rules in this sphere.

The Commission, in January, began an investigation in
Spain to establish the degree of use of prohibited
substances for livestock fattening and to acertain the
measures taken by the Spanish authorities to prohibit
their use. One of the prime objectives of the investigation
is to determine the use made of beta-agonists, in
particular clenbuterol.

On completion of the investigation, the Commission will
assess its findings.

O OJ No L 275, 26.9. 1986.
The Commission cannot agree with the comparison which
the Honourable Member makes with the case of the
_/_
inmates of psychiatric institutions on Leros. In that case,

5. 12. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 315/5

WRITTEN QUESTION No 158/91

by Mr Jean-Pierre Raffarin (LDR)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(20 February 1991)_

(91/C 315/08)

_Subject:_ Hake stocks

Is the Commission aware of the existence of scientific

studies which suggest that the hake stocks in the Bay of
Biscay are not especially at risk, in contradiction to the
statements of fishermen from the port of La Rochelle
pointing to a considerable reduction in tonnage in the case
of this fish?

Answer given by Mr Marin
on behalf of the Commission

_(30 July 1991)_

The best and most recent scientific opinion on hake stocks
available was provided by the Advisory Committee for
Fisheries Management at its meeting in November 1990.
This opinion was delivered on the basis of the scientific
work of several researchers in Ireland, the United
Kingdom, France, Spain and Portugal within the
Working Party for the assessment of hake stocks of the
International Council for the Exploration of the Sea.

According to the ACFM reports of recent years, in
particular that submitted at the meeting in November
1990, stocks appear to be relatively stable, although
fishing methods could and should be improved by
reducing the general intensity of fishing and excessive
catches of juveniles.

In this context the Commission recently submitted, for
adoption by the Council, three proposals for regulations
amending Regulation (EEC) No 3094/86 laying down
certain technical measures for the conservation of fishery
resources, aimed in particular at reducing the numbers of
juvenile fish caught.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 171/91

by Mr Jean-Pierre Raffarin (LDR)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(20 February 1991)_

(91/C 315/09)

_Subject:_ Comparative advertising in the European
Community

The Commission is about to adopt a position in
connection with a proposal for a directive on the
authorization of comparative advertising in the European
Community. Is this proposal concerned with corporate
advertising, institutional advertising and, more generally,
political advertising?

Answer given by Mr Van Miert
on behalf of the Commission

_(20 March 1991)_

The Commission's work on comparative advertising falls
within the ambit of Directive 84/450/EEC of 10

September 1984 relating to the approximation of the laws,
regulations and administrative provisions of the Member
States concerning misleading advertising ('). Such work is
therefore concerned exclusively with advertising in
connection with a trade, business, craft or profession,
with a view to promoting the supply of goods or services,
including immovable property, rights and obligations.

O OJNoL250, 19.9.1984, p. 17.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 215/91

by Mr Louis Lauga (RDE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(18 February 1991)_

(91/C 315/10)

_Subject:_ Herring fishing

Can the Commission give any information on the stage
reached in drawing up Community regulations on young
herring fishing?

Can the Commission also clearly state the position of the
Netherlands on this important matter?

Answer given by Mr Marin
on behalf of the Commission

_(26 July 1991)_

With a view to rational exploitation of fishery resources,
Community legislation provides, amongst other things,
for special protection for juvenile herring by means of
various measures:

— a ban on fishing of herring for processing into meal or
oil - Regulation (EEC) No 2115/77 (');

— minimum net sizes and minimum landing sizes —
Regulation (EEC) No 3094/86 and later
amendments ( [2] );

— close seasons in certain areas where young herring
congregate — Regulation (EEC) No 3094/86 and
3926/90 O ;

— limits on the proportion of by-catches of herring in
other fisheries, in particular those directed towards
small fish for processing into oil and meal —
Regulation (EEC) No 3094/86 and (EEC)
No 3926/90.

There are presently a number of problems with regard to
the application of these Regulations owing to the
ineffectiveness of monitoring measures, for which the
Member States are responsible.

No C 315/6 Official Journal of the

Until these problems are resolved, the Commission does
not intend making further proposals for the protection of
herring except with regard to the particular problem of
waste resulting from the large percentage of discards for
this species, estimated at around 20% of catches by the
International Council for the Exploration of the Sea
(ICES), on which discussions are now taking place.

The Commission is unaware of any particular statements
by representatives of the Netherlands on this matter.

O OJNoL247,28.9.1977, p. 2.
O OJNoL288, 11.10.1986, p. 1.
O OJ No L 378, 31. 12.1990, p. 1.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 281/91

by Mr Herman Verbeek (V)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(4 March 1991)_

(91/C 315/11)

_Subject:_ Genetic engineering in animals

Since December 1990 a number of genetically engineered
calves have been born at a firm called GenePharming
Europe in the Netherlands; these calves are said to have
improved resistance to mastitis owing to the artificial
stimulation of lactoferrine production. To date (20
January 1991) no successful experimental calf has been
born (the implanted genes have not taken). In the
meantime, the same firm has announced a test involving
the implanting of human genes in cows with the aim of
producing human drugs in the milk.

1. What in the current position with regard to EC
legislation on genetic engineering in animals?

2. What new initiatives does the Commission intend to

take in this field?

3. What view does the Commission take of the fact that

genetic engineering experiments are evidently already
being carried out on animals, while neither the EC nor
any of its Member States have any criteria or
legislation on the issue?

Answer given by Mr Pandolfi
on behalf of the Commission

_(31 May 1991)_

1. Any experimentation on vertebrate animals used for
experimental purposes must be conducted under national
legislation in accordance with Community Directive
86/609/EEC (') which gives effect in the Community to
the Council of Europe Convention for the Protection of

European Communities 5. 12. 91

Vertebrate Animals used for Experimental and other
Scientific Purposes.

If the animals are used in agriculture, their general
welfare is subject to the 1976 European Convention for
the protection kept for farming purposes (Council
Decision 78/923/EEC) ( [2] ).

Directive 90/220/EEC of 23 April 1990 on the deliberate
release of GMOs ( [J] ) provides regulatory oversight and
requires a permit if genetically modified animals are to be
used or released outside strict physical confinement,
whether for experimental or for commerical purposes.
Genetic modification work with animal cells in

laboratories is also regulated under Directive
90/219/EEC O on the contained use of GMMs. Both

these Directives have to be implemented by Member
States at the latest by 23 October 1991.

c

2. The Commission services are currently considering
possible proposals for legislation

— on novel foods (which may be applicable if a genetic
manipulation were to bring novel elements into the
established food chain);

— on the placing on the market of transgenic animals
and their products.

3. The Commission is closely monitoring
developments in this area, whith a view to identifying
possible needs for Community legislation beyond that
cited above.

As explained above, the Community does have some
relevant regulation already in place concerning genetic
modification of animals and animal welfare in general
specific national legislation to implement Directive
90/220/EEC is already in place in several Member States
and is under preparation in others, to be adopted by 23
October 1991.

(') OJNoL358,18.12.1986.
O OJNoL323, 17. 11.1978.
O OJ No LI 17, 8.5. 1990.
O OJ No LI 17, 8. 5.1990.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 330/91

by Mr Carlos Robles Piquer (PPE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(4 March 1991)_

(91/C 315/12)

_Subject:_ Spanish and Portuguese scientific staff in the

JRC

The number of Spanish and Portuguese staff employed in
the Joint Research Centre QRC) increased from 61 to 74

5. 12. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 315/7

between the end of 1989 and June 1990. This increase was

lower than planned, and less than the number of posts
made available, by the Commission, which seems to have
run into difficulty with the attitude taken by the Spanish
and Portuguese authorities to releasing their scientific
staff to the JRC on long-term contracts.

Can the Commission state the number of Spanish and
Portuguese scientific staff who were contracted during
the same period as scientific experts on committees with a
strictly limited term?

What are the grades of the 13 new official posts filled by
Portuguese and Spanish scientists in the period in
question?

Answer given by Mr Pandolfi
on behalf of the Commission

_(30 May 1991)_

Over the period from 1 June 1989 to 31 December 1990
three scientific experts of Spanish nationality and three of
Portuguese nationality were contracted to the JRC.

Over the same period the following officials were
recruited:

— five officials of Spanish nationality (two in category A
and r.hree in category B);

— eight officials of Portuguese nationality (four in
category A, two in category B and two in category C.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 3 54/91

by Mr Joachim Dalsass (PPE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(7 March 1991)_

(91/C315/13)

_Subject:_ Audi 90 Quattro, equipped with a catalytic

converter

A few months ago, the author of this question purchased
a new Audi 90 Quattro in Bolzano, South Tyrol. When
placing the order, he requested a model equipped with a
catalytic converter but was informed by the supplier that
this was impossible since no catalytic converter had yet
been approved in Italy for the type of car in question, and
therefore could not be supplied.

In view of the above, can the Commission answer the
following questions?

1. Is it the fault of the manufacturer that no application
for approval of a catalytic converter in Italy has yet
been submitted, or are the Italian authorities unwilling
to allow such a catalytic converter to be fitted in an
Audi 90 Quattro?

2. What action can and will the Commission take to

enable a European citizen wishing to purchase an
Audi 90 Quattro to acquire one equipped with a
catalytic converter?

Answer given by Mr Bangemann
on behalf of the Commission

(5 _June 1991)_

1. Emissions from cars with an engine capacity of over
2 000 cc, the category to which the Honourable Member's
vehicle belongs, are covered by a Directive (') which
provides that vehicles in that category must be fitted with
three-way catalytic convertors and lambda probes.

However, the Directive is based on the principle of
'optional harmonization', so that the choice of whether or
not to make the fitting of these anti-pollution devices
mandatory in their territory is left to the discretion of the
Member States.

In practical terms, since the vehicle in question was
bought in Italy and that Member State has told the
Commission that it will not be making these devices
compulsory until 1 October 1991, Italian suppliers have
no obligation to fit catalytic convertors. However,
vehicles brought into service for the first time after that
date will have to be fitted with them.

2. Aware of these difficulties, on 5 January 1990 the
Commission submitted a new proposal ( [2] ) to amend
Council Directive 70/220/EEC in order to lay down
stringent European emission standards requiring that all
categories of cars be fitted with three-way catalytic
convertors and lambda probes from 1 July 1992 for all
types of vehicles approved for the first time and from 31
December 1992 for all vehicles brought into service for
the first time.

O Council Directive 70/220/EEC, as amended by Directive

88/78/EEC.
O COM(89) 662 - OJNo C 81, 30. 3.1990.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 390/91

by Mr Antonio La Pergola (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(7 March 1991)_

(91/C 315/14)

_Subject:_ Earthquake on 12 December in eastern Sicily

The serious earthquake which shook eastern Sicily on the
night of 12—13 December 1990, in addition to causing

N o C 315/8 Official Journal of the European Communities 5. 12.91

serious losses and suffering to the inhabitants, also caused
major damage to the island's cultural heritage.

In particular, the baroque buildings in Noto, which
already needed restoration, have now suffered serious
damage requiring urgent measures to prevent their total
loss or the need for even more extensive restoration work.

Given that the Commission had already considered
measures to preserve the baroque buildings of Noto on
the basis set out in an action programme for the region of
Sicily, what measures does the Commission now intend to
take to carry out the action envisaged prior to the
earthquake to preserve the cultural heritage and how can
the measures be stepped up to meet the new requirements?
Does the Community budget contain additional funds
which could be used for this purpose?

Answer given by Mr Millan
on behalf of the Commission

_(24 June 1991)_

The Commission has given particular consideration to the
need to preserve and restore the very rich cultural heritage
of baroque buildings in eastern Sicily, and in Noto in
particular, by including a specific measure in the
Operational Programme for Sicily 1990—93.

The implementation of this measure, scheduled to begin
in the current year, will allow genuine protection and
restoration to take place.

In collaboration with the regional and national
authorities, the Commission, which is part-financing the
measure through the European Regional Development
Fund, will closely study ways to broaden the measure, for
which further assistance may be requested from
Community loan instruments in the light of the new
conditions brought about by the earthquake of 12
December last.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 406/91

by Mr Hemmo Muntingh (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(11 March 1991)_

(91/C 315/15)

_Subject:_ Flare stacks in the OPEC countries

According to the journal _Petrostrategies,_ in 1989 the
OPEC countries are estimated to have consumed 56

billion cubic metres of fossil fuels in flare stacks kept

burning continuously in the oil fields, a practice that is
virtually unknown in Europe and North America.

1. Does the Commission not think that efforts should be

made in the OPEC countries to ensure that energy
consumption is as efficient as anywhere else in the
world?

2. How does the Commission plan to put an end to this

enormous waste of valuable fuels?

Answer given by Mr Cardoso e Cunha
on behalf of the Commission

_(2_ _May 1991)_

1. The Commission thinks that energy should be
consumed as efficiently as possible, and that the flaring of
gas should therefore be kept to a minimum. As a result of
steps taken by the States concerned, and the
encouragement given to the use of natural gas, the flaring
of gas in western Europe now represents only 1,9% (4,17
billion cubic metres) of total gross production (estimated
at 216 billion cubic metres). In the OPEC countries the
percentage is 13% (approximately 50 billion cubic
metres). Africa is the region in which the practice of gas
flaring is the most widespread, representing 18 % of total
production.

2. The Commission has no direct powers to persuade
the OPEC countries to alter their present policy.
However, in its contacts with those countries it takes
every opportunity to bring their attention to the
importance of ending, or at least reducing, the flaring of
gas. The Commission also intends to continue to support
the use of natural gas in those countries through its
development cooperation policy, thus helping to provide
the economic justification for the investments required.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 460/91

by Mr Gordon Adam (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(19 March 1991)_

(91/C 315/16)

_Subject:_ Funding for Research Councils in the UK

Is the Commission concerned at the recent announcement

by the Science and Engineering Research Council
concerning the shortfall in its funding for 1991 — 1992?

In particular, is the Commission able to assess the
implications for collaborative research within the
Community of the lack of funds for the Polar Cap Radar

No C 315/9
5. 12. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities

and the Gravitational Wave Oberservatory, the possible
closure of the Nuclear Structure Facility at the Daresbury
Laboratory, and the cutbacks in technology for
manufacturing industry?

Answer given by Mr Pandolfi
on behalf of the Commission

_(30 May 1991)_

The Commission is well aware of the situation concerning
UK research funding and, in particular, that of the
Research Councils. Whilst noting that cutbacks in UK
research expenditure could have potential effects on
European research, it feels that the problem is principally
a UK government matter.

The Polar Cap Radar and Gravitational Wave
Observatory projects were planned without EC funding
but a percentage of the projects likely to have been
undertaken using them would probably have involved
European researchers. The Commission is providing
substantial funding for the Synchrotron Radiation Source
(SRS) laboratory at Daresbury but it does not support the
Nuclear Structure Facility (NSF) on the same site.
Currently there are 16 projects running on this particular
Daresbury facility and in about half of the cases people
from outside the UK are involved.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 516/91

by Mr Henry Chabert (RDE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(26 March 1991)_

(91/C 315/17)

_Subject:_ The Euro-Arab University project

The project for a Euro-Arab University, which it was
planned to establish in a city in southern Spain, appears to
be marking time.

Now more than ever, however, in the light of the current
period of conflict and of the lasting effects which it will
have, it is vital that structures be established to promote
dialogue and deeper exchange between the Arab world
and the West. The spirit of exchange, tolerance,
emulation and intellectual kinship in which the idea for
this project was born is a step in this direction.

Locating the university in Spain would, in the light of the
centuries-old links between the two cultures found there,
be a clear symbol of constructive intent.

What action does the Commission intend to take in order

to help relaunch this project?

What timespan is envisaged for the opening of the
university? Will the Community participate in the funding
of this project, and if so, what form will this assistance
take?

Answer given by Mr Matutes
on behalf of the Commission

_(27 May 1991)_

The project mentioned by the Honourable Member was
discussed at the sixth meeting of the General Committee
of the Euro-Arab Dialogue, which was held in Dublin on
7 and 8 June 1990.

The General Committee invited the Working Committee
on Science and Technology, in consultation with the
Working Committee on Social and Cultural Questions, to
'study the role, scope and feasibility of a Euro-Arab
university, taking account of the financing available'. The
General Committee also indicated that 'follow-up would
be determined in the light of this study' (Annex I, page 7,
paragraph 4).

Unfortunately, the events of the past few months have
prevented the Working Committees of the Euro-Arab
Dialogue from meeting. The Commission reaffirms its
commitment to the Euro-Arab Dialogue in general and to
this project in particular, which it considers to be of great
importance to Euro-Arab relations. As soon as
circumstances permit, the Commission will take the
necessary steps to ensure that the Committees concerned
start work as quickly as possible.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 533/91

by Mr Virginio Bettini (V)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(26 March 1991)_

(91/C 315/18)

_Subject:_ Implementation of the budget of the European
Communities

Before finally adopting the EC budget for 1991, the
European Parliament adopted an amendment to increase
items B6-6225, B6-6222 and B6-5531 by ECU 45 million
(commitment appropriations) and ECU 12 million
(payment appropriations) for:

5. 12. 91
No C 315/10 Official Journal of the European Communities

(a) research projects (pre-demonstration pilot projects);

(b) demonstration projects;

(c) dissemination of information.

1. Has the allocation of all or part of these funds been

decided?

2. What criteria have been used, or are to be used if the
funds have not yet been allocated, for distribution
between the above sectors along the lines indicated by
the budgetary authorities?

3. Does the Commission intend to promote a working
party with Parliament on the actions adopted?

Answer given by Mr Pandolfi
on behalf of the Commission

_(5 August 1991)_

1. In 1990 the European Parliament adopted an
amendment to devote ECU 45 million (engagements) and
ECU 12 million (payments) in budget line B6-6225 for
agro-industrial demonstration projects. Moreover, in
January 1991 the European Parliament adopted its
opinion on the Commission proposal for a specific
programme of research and technological development in
the field of agriculture and agro-industry which indicated
that 10 % to 15 % of the resources should be allocated to

demonstration projects. The common position of the
Council (Doc. 5805/1/91 transmitted to Parliament on 13
May 1991) is in agreement with the opinion of the
European Parliament. The budget lines for 1991
corresponding to this programme are B6-6225 and
B6-6222.

2. In the abovementioned common position, about
ECU 330 million are devoted to the execution of the

specific programme (including demonstration projects for
ECU 45 million) and about ECU 3 million to the
dissemination and exploitation of results.

3. The Parliamentary inter-group on 'non-food uses of
agricultural products' discussed demonstration projects
on 23 January 1991 and has been fully informed on these

matters.

In conformity with the conclusions of the Presidents of
the three institutions of 17 April 1991 concerning the
specific research programmes of the third Framework
Programme, the Commission will keep the Parliament
informed about the implementation and management of
the Programme, and about their social and economic
impact.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 595/91

by Mr Sotiris Kostopoulos (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(26 March 1991)_

(91/C 315/19)

_Subject:_ Failure of the EEC Information Office in Athens
and the 'European News' to provide Greek
citizens with sufficient information

In order to provide information for citizens of the
Member States of the European Community, the
Commission has set up a number of information offices
and publishes journals and specialized periodicals.

Greek citizens, however, do not have access to
comprehensive information from the Commission's
Information Office in Athens concerning the benefits
available to them as citizens of a united Europe.

This lack of information creates the impression that,
deliberately or otherwise, an attempt is being made to
conceal the major issues being discussed in the
Commission and, more generally, all areas of activity in
the major sectors (culture, youth, sport, regional policy,
equal treatment of women, environment, health,
economics, industry, agriculture, fisheries, etc.).

Obviously, these are major issues of interest to all Greek
citizens without who should be informed as completely as
possible with a view to the completion of the Single
Market.

From this point of view, there are very serious gaps in the
'European News' journal, particularly in respect of
matters under discussion by the Commission and the
Council of Ministers. Moreover, this journal is not being
sent to all Greek Members of Parliament. As a result, the
European Community Information Office in Athens is
failing to provide adequate information for the Greek
public and mass media.

1. Will the Commission take immediate measures to

oblige the Greek Information Office in Athens to
improve the contents of 'European News'?

2. Will the Commission step up the activities of the
Information Office to ensure that, from now on
Greek citizens receive reliable and comprehensive
information to enable them to meet the challenge of
European Union in 1992?

Answer given by Mr Dondelinger
on behalf of the Commission

_(6 June 1991)_

1. The Commission's Office in Greece is making every
effort to keep Greeks abreast of Community

N o C 315/11
5. 12.91 Official Journal of the European Communities

developments and of the new opportunities offered to
them as a result of their country's involvement. These
efforts include the activities of the Office's

Documentation Department (which received 14 000
visitors, answered 15 000 telephone enquiries and wrote
1 500 letters last year), publication of the newsletter
'Evropaiki Epikairotita' (European News), participation
in exhibitions (with some 200 000 visitors last year), the
despatch and distribution of a huge quantity of printed
matter (500 000 copies a year), the travelling exhibition to
disseminate information in the provinces (last year it
visited seven prefectures), and organizing or helping to
organize conferences and seminars, together with a whole
range of lectures and other events.

At the same time, in order to broaden the channels of
information for the public, the Commission has set up a
sizeable number of relay facilities in Greece over the last
two years. These include:

— five European documentation centres;

— 13 European business information centres;

— information services for specific programmes
(Comett, Erasmus, etc.);

— two groups of specialized lecturers (Team 92 and the
Green Team);

— the European citizen's information centre, which
works from the Office and advises citizens on their

Community rights.

A further point to note is that Greek public services
authorities — both central and regional — qualified to
run Community programmes are making a particularly
helpful contribution to comprehensive information for
the citizen.

2. The fortnightly bulletin 'European Activity' is sent
free of charge to 2 165 addresses. This figure was recently
boosted to 2 500 and the 1991 target is 3 000. Naturally,
this publication is always sent to all Greek members of the
European Parliament.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 601/91

by Mr Madron Seligman (ED)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(15 April 1991)_

(91/C 315/20)

_Subject:_ Use of Panasonic cordless phone, sold in Spain,
said to be illegal in the UK

A constituent of mine bought a Panasonic KX-T3620
cordless telephone complete with AC adaptor for

approximately £ 50 in Las Palmas. He was assured by the
vendor that the device was suitable for use in the UK.

Indeed, the device functioned well for two months until
the AC adaptor failed. My constituent approached
Panasonic Service UK, who replied that they regretted
that they could not help for two reasons:

1. they were only responsible for sales and service of
products they sold in the UK,

2. it was illegal to use the product in question, if
connected to the British Telecom network, since it had
not received approval by the British Approvals Board
for Telecommunications. Apparently the products
approved by the latter could only be purchased from
certain dealers in the UK.

It would appear that the marketing practice of an
international group and the attitude of BABT in this
matter pay little regard to EC and UK policy with regard
to trading within the Community, competition and abuse
of monopoly power. Furthermore, British visitors receive
no warning from the British authorities in Spain with
regard to similar goods freely available from reputable
shops.

Is the Commission willing to take action to safeguard the
legitimate interests of people making bona fide purchases
in one Member State for use in another Member State?

Answer given by Mr Pandolfi
on behalf of the Commission

_(30 May 1991)_

The written question raises two different problems:

— Can a device bought in one Member State of the
Community be used in another Member State?

— Is a device bought in one country guaranteed by the
manufacturer in another country?

These two questions tackle different points:

— The second question concerns business practice. The
Commission is currently looking into the problem of
the geographical cover of guarantees received by the
customer. Las Palmas is one of a number of tax-free

zones where surplus products are sold extremely
cheaply, often without guarantee.

— The first question only, therefore, concerns the

Commission.

No C 315/12 Official Journal of the European Communities 5. 12. 91

It must be remembered that in the United Kingdom all
devices using radio links must be approved before being
connected to the public network.

This principle is applied in all the Community countries
and is recognized under Community law; Directive
88/301/EEC (') recognizes this principle and a directive
on the mutual recognition of approval procedures is about
to be adopted.

These approval procedures arise not as the result of the
abuse of a monopoly, but rather from a twin concern,
namely to make sure that such devices employ the
frequencies authorized and do not cause interference for
other users of the frequency range and that devices
connected to the public network do not cause interference
to this network.

The solution for the future which will enable advantage to
be gained from the single market is to be found in
pan-European systems such as the DECT (Digital
European Cordless Telephone) for cordless telephones. A
cordless telephone bought in any Member State will be
able to be used throughout the Community, since
common frequencies will be employed in accordance with
the draft directive about to be adopted by the Council,
and one Member State's approval will be valid throughout
the Community.

(') OJ No L h i, 27. 5.1988.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 602/91

by Mr Madron Seligman (ED)

. to the Commission of the European Communities

_(15 April 1991)_

(91/C 315/21)

_Subject:_ Slaughter of whales in the Faroes

Constituents write to me to express their concern —
which I share — at the annual mass slaughter of whales by
the Faroese people.

Whilst it is appreciated that the Commission does not
have the competence to interfere in a local practice, which
has an economic objective (but also seems to constitute
something of a national sport), would the Commission
feel able to use diplomacy as a means of seeking to
persuade the Faroese to at least adopt a less inhumane
way of achieving an economic objective?

I think that it is now incontrovertible that the whale is a

highly intelligent and sentient creature and should not be
made to suffer as if it were vermin encroaching uninvited
to cause harm to the Faroese people, when nothing could
be farther from the truth.

Answer given by Mr Ripa di Meana
on behalf of the Commission

_(22 May 1991)_

The Commission shares the Honourable Member's

concern about the slaughter of pilot whales in the Faroe
Islands. As a result, the Commission will try to ensure that
the hunting of these species is only carried out under the
best possible conditions or that it is totally ended.

This problem will be discussed at the next meeting of the
International Whaling Commission (IWC) to be held in
Reykjavik from 27 to 31 May. The Commission, though
only participating as an observer, will propose a ban on all
types of whale hunting, thus going even further than the
IWC at present with respect to the conservation of marine
mammals. This ban would include whaling for scientific
purposes, given that other evaluation methods are
available which do not necessarily involve capturing
whales.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 620/91

by Mr Madron Seligman (ED)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(15 April 1991)_

(91/C 315/22)

_Subject:_ Estimating progress in saving energy in each
Member State

What are the criteria for estimating progress in each
Member State in saving energy? What is the estimated
energy saving potential in each Member State as a
proportion of total energy consumption ?

Supplementary answer given by Cardoso e Cunha
on behalf of the Commission

_(24 September 1991)_

Further to its answer of 3 May 1991 ('), the Commission
can now provide the following information.

It is exceptionally difficult to establish the energy
efficiency potential of a Member State because such an
estimation can depend very substantially on the state of
technological introduction and more particularly on the
economics of energy efficiency investments, i.e. varies
with the price of energy.

The Commission has made enquiries among the Member
States and, although teams are working on this very
complex question in every Member State, there are as yet
no conclusive results.

Most of these national teams are incorporated into the
MURE project which is being administered by DG XII.

No C 315/13
5. 12. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities

To date MURE has concentrated on developing a
methodological approach and is currently at the stage
of developing results. The following table shows the
estimated situation with regard to energy savings
potentials in the tertiary and domestic sectors for 10
Member States and for the years 1995, 2000 and 2010.

The MURE project is ongoing and should be producing
results within 18 months.

Energy saving potential in the tertiary
and domestic sectors

Saving potential I nPJ

Member State

WRITTEN QUESTION No 621/91

by Mr Madron Seligman (ED)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(15 April 1991)_

(91/C 315/23)

_Subject:_ Building regulations for the insulations of homes

For each of the 12 Member States, will the Commission
state whether building regulations for the insulation of
homes have been introduced and, if so, whether they are
mandatory or optional?

With what frequency does each Member State review and
revise building regulations for the insulation of homes?
Please set out reply in tabular form.

Answer given by Mr Bangemann
on behalf of the Commission

_(15 May 1991)_

All Member States, except Luxembourg, have mandatory
regulations for the thermal insulation of buildings, but
even in Luxembourg, where no such regulations exist, the
thermal insulation of buildings is a daily common
practice.

The year of introduction of these regulations in each
Member State as well as the year of their major revision
are set out in the table attached in so far as this

information is available to the Commission.

2010

16,4

6,4

53,6

89,2

11,6

80,4

17,3

14,5

78,7

59,8

2000

10,9

5,2

26,7

49,4

8,3

50,2

15,0

12,6

55,3

43,7

Belgium

Denmark

Germany

France

Greece

Italy

Netherlands

Portugal

Spain

United Kingdom

(*) OJNoC150, 10.6. 1991.

Country

Belgium

Denmark

Germany

Greece

Spain

France

Ireland

Italy

Luxembourg

Netherlands

Portugal

United

Kingdom

1995

7,8

4,0

13,5

37,3

5,7

25,1

9,4

7,1

40,7

31,5

First introduced in

1984

(Wallon region)

1961

1977

1979

1974

1974

1976

1976

No requirements

1965

1991

1976 (England, Wales,
Scotland and N. Ireland

similar dates)

**Status**

**M = Mandatory**
**O = Optional**

**M**

**M**

**M**

**M**

**M**

**M**

**M**

**M**

**M**

**M**

**M**

**M**

**M**

**M**

**Next revision**

**envisaged in**

**1991**

**(Flemish region)**

**Since then**

**revised in**

—

**1979**,,198 198 **4**

**1984**

**1979**

**1982,1988**

**1981,1984**

—

**1975,1978,1981**
**1987,** **1990**

**1982,1990**

—

**1991**

**1992**

**1991**

—

—

**1992**

**1992**

**1993**

No C 315/14 Official Journal of the European Communities 5. 12. 91

WRITTEN QUESTION No 623/91

by Mr Madron Seligman (ED)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(15 April 1991)_

(91/C 315/24)

_Subject:_ Building regulations for the insulation of homes

Given the present state of the art, what additional
insulation measures capable of achieving significant
energy savings require inclusion in future regulations
designed to promote energy saving?

Answer given by Mr Cardoso e Cunha
on behalf of the Commission

_(30 May 1991)_

Virtually all the Member States have introduced minimum
heat insulation standards for new buildings, which vary
considerably from one Member State to another within a
given climatic zone. The national standards need to be
harmonized at a high level, for reasons of energy
efficiency and resources management and in the interests
of environmental protection.

A study is currently being carried out to pinpoint the
technical and economic requirements for the insulation of
new buildings in the different climatic zones. On the basis
of the findings of this study the Commission will draw up
proposals for the Council on ways of improving the
energy efficiency of new buildings in the Community,
while harmonizing existing standards in the Member
States. These measures will form part of the new SAVE

programme.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 646/91

by Mr Jesus Cabezdn Alonso (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(16 April 1991)_

(91/C 315/25)

_Subject:_ European Social Fund in Cantabria (Spain) in

1990

What level of funding from the European Social Fund was
invested in Cantabria (Spain) in 1990?

Which institutions and organizations in Cantabria
received aid from the European Social Fund in 1990?

Answer given by Mrs Papandreou
on behalf of the Commission

_(7 May 1991)_

Total disbursements by the Commission under the
European Social Fund to assist Cantabria ran to ECU
410 122 in 1990.

National programmes approved by the Commission
contained further indicative amounts of ECU 8 395 534.

The recipient organizations were the Deputacion
Regional de Cantabria, INEM, IE de Emigraci6n, IS de
Marina, INSERSO and Ministerio de Agricultura.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 655/91

by Mr Arturo Escuder Croft (PPE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(16 April 1991)_

(91/C 315/26)

_Subject:_ Integrated development plan in the Canaries

At its sitting of 22 January 1988 Parliament adopted a
motion for a resolution tabled by Mr Griffith, a Socialist
Group member of the Committee on Regional Policy,
calling for the establishment of an integrated
development programme for the Canary Islands
(A2-0245/87), but it appears that this resolution has not
been implemented.

In the three years since then, what measures has the
Commission taken to give effect to the European
Parliament's resolution of 22 January 1988 on the
establishment of an integrated development programme
for the Canary Islands?

More specifically, what action has been taken on
paragraphs 17,18 and 23 of the resolution?

Answer given by Mr Millan
on behalf of the Commission

_(29 July 1991)_

In February the Commission made two proposals relating
to the Canary Islands ('), prepared in partnership with the
Spanish authorities:

— a proposal for a Council Regulation on the application
of the provisions of Community law to the Canary
Islands, which deals with the status of the Canaries in
the Community and aims to step up their integration
into the full range of common policies;

— a second, consequential proposal for a Council
Decision setting up a programme of options specific to
the remote and insular nature of the Canary Islands —
POSEICAN. This sets out the principles for the
application on special terms of common policies,
notably on agriculture, fisheries and customs.

Moreover, the decisions set out below on structural Fund
assistance under special programmes in 1990 will

5. 12. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities N o C 315/15

also serve to promote the development of the Canary

Islands:

— by Decision of 30 July 1990 the Commission adopted
an integrated operational programme (IOP) for the
island of Gomera, presented by Spain in November
1989. Total expenditure is ECU 95,03 million; the
structural Funds will be involved as follows:

ERDF: ECU 38,85 million,

EAGGF Guidance Section: ECU 5,77 million,

ESF: ECU 2,56 million;

— by Decision of 14 December 1990 the Commission
approved ERDF assistance of ECU 290,018 million
for an operational programme for the development of
the Canary Islands costing an aggregate ECU 655,255
million.

— by Decisions of 6 and 30 November 1990, the
Commission approved overall ESF assistance of ECU
49,4 million for three operational programmes in the
Canary Islands.

— by Decision of 10 December 1990 the Commission
approved EAGGF assistance of ECU 7,19 million for
an operational programme to improve agricultural
structure in the Canary Islands costing a total of ECU
14,38 million. Two other EAGGF operational
programmes are under scrutiny, concerning
environmental protection and improvement and
reorganization of production.

— the Canary Islands also qualify for support under
Community initiatives designed to offset the
drawbacks of the Community's peripheral regions
(REGIS programme) or to protect the environment
(ENVIREG programme).

(') COM(90) 686 final.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 665/91

by Mr Francesco Speroni (ARC)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(16 April 1991)_

(91/C 315/27)

_Subject:_ Entry into Community territory of immigrants
from the Swiss Confederation

With the consent of the Italian authorities, the Swiss
Confederation periodically sends to Italy groups of

third-country citizens found to be illegally resident in
Switzerland, without supplying proof that they originally
entered Switzerland from Italy.

Does the Commission consider that such action by a third
country in sending immigrants into Community territory
is compatible with Community immigration policy?

Answer given by Mr Bangemann
on behalf of the Commission

_(5 September 1991)_

The Commission is unaware of the practice of the Swiss
authorities referred to by the Honourable Member, this
being at the moment a matter solely for bilateral
relationships between a Member State and a third

country.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 678/91

by Mr Diego de los Santos Lopez (ARC)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(19 April 1991)_

(91/C 315/28)

_Subject:_ Swine fever

Following the appearance of outbreaks of 'new' swine
fever in Germany and the Netherlands, the Commission
has adopted a decision on protective measures which
recognizes the possibility of the disease spreading rapidly
and endangering pig farming.

Why did the Commission not agree to emergency
territorial restrictions, enabling trade between the other
Member States to continue?

Is the Commission taking different measures because it
considers this 'new' swine fever to be less virulent than

African swine fever?

Does the Commission not consider that the deadline it

has set for amending or extending its decision on this
matter (17 April 1991) may be too late to prevent the
epidemic from spreading?

Answer given by Mr Mac Sharry
on behalf of the Commission

_(30 July 1991)_

1. Trade with other Member States has been drastically
curtailed by Commission Decision 91/237/EEC of 25

5. 12. 91
N o C 315/16 Official Journal of the European Communities

April 1991 ( [x] ). This decision is intended to limit and
prevent the spread of the disease to other major areas of
pig production within the Community.

It has become evident that the disease is spreading by
airborne transmission, as well as by the movement of pigs.
There is circumstantial evidence of airborne transmission

over 20 km. This airborne spread renders emergency area
regulations based on animal movement restrictions of
limited value.

A major obstacle to effective control is the lack of a test
for infected stock. Several laboratories in Europe and in
the USA are working on this problem and it appears that
we recently have had a breakthrough at the Central
Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory in the Netherlands
which has just announced the isolation of an agent
considered to be the cause of the disease. The

Commission is encouraging further research by providing
financial support and by organizing seminars to review
progress. In addition, the disease situation is regularly
reviewed at the monthly meetings of the Standing
Veterinary Committee.

2. Measures suggested by the Commission to control
and eradicate infectious disease are whenever possible
based on the most up-to-date scientific data available on
the disease in question. African Swine Fever has been
subjected to research activities for many years and in
contrast to the 'new' pig disease (Porcine Reproductive
and Respiratory Syndrome), it is a well-documented
disease in respect of the causative agent, the incubation
period and the means of transmission. In spite of a
shortage of scientific data with regard to the Porcine
Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome, the nature of
the two diseases appear to be very different. The control
measures introduced by Decision 91/109/EEC ( [2] ),
replaced by Decison 91/237/EEC, reflects the experience
gained in the field during the initial period of the
epidemic.

3. In accordance with the provisions of Decision
91/109/EEC, it has been possible at any time within the
period of 1 March to 17 April 1991 to propose
amendments to the adopted protection measures in the
light of the evolution of the disease. Amendments were
proposed by the Commission and reviewed by the
Standing Veterinary Committee in March and early April.
Knowledge gained during the initial phase of the
epidemic was applied when Decision 91/109/EEC was
replaced by Decision 91/237/EEC on 25 April 1991.

(') OJNoL 106,26.4. 1991.
O OJ No L 56, 2. 3. 1991.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 700/91

by Mr Wilfried Telkamper (V)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(19 April 1991)_

(91/C 315/29)

_Subject:_ Incorporation of the Directive on environmental
impact assessment into German law

1. Is environmental impact assessment compulsory for
motorways and expressways? (with effect from 3 July
1988)

2. Is it also compulsory for at least some of the roads
listed in Annex II, point lOd of the Directive on
environmental impact assessment? (since 3 July 1988)

3. Is it also compulsory when the developers are
'subordinate authorities' (Lander or municipalities)?

4. Should criteria/thresholds be laid down (with effect
from 3 July 1988) according to which environmental
impact assessment is recognized as compulsory for any
kind of road construction project? Should these
criteria/thresholds also be laid down by the Federal
Government for projects sponsored by subordinate
authorities?

5. Is the 'implicit' threshold laid down in the German
law on environmental impact assessment ( = minimum
standard for the extension of Federal trunk roads), valid,
so long as the thresholds referred in point 4 above and
other thresholds have not been laid down, more precisely
(a) since the entry into force of the Law on environmental
impact assessment, and (b) since the Directive on
environmental impact assessment became valid (3 July
1988)?

6. If an environmental impact assessment is to be
carried out (even if it is optional), does it have to be
carried out as part of the planning procedure, be specified
as such, when the plans are being presented, and be
annexed to the project documentation which is to be made
available to the public?

7. Can the papers hitherto submitted as part of the
German planning procedure take the place of an
environmental impact assessment?

Answer given by Mr Ripa di Meana
on behalf of the Commission

_(27 June 1991)_

1. Yes.

2. The road construction projects referred to in item
10 (d) of Annex II are subject to an environmental impact
assessment where the Member State considers that the

characteristics of such projects so require.

3. The Community Directive makes no distinction with
regard to the status of developers. All natural or legal
persons must carry out impact assessments where these
are required by Community and/or national provisions.

5. 12. 91 Official Journal of the

4. Pursuant to Articles 2 and 4 (2) of the Directive,
Member States must select projects of the classes listed in
Annex II which must be subject to environmental impact

assessment.

For this purpose, Member States may lay down criteria
and/or thresholds.

Consequently, Germany ought to have informed the
Commission of the measures it has taken to this end, on

the basis of Article 11.

5. Under Community law, an environmental impact
assessment of a project must take place if the project falls
within Annex I to the Directive; this obligation has been
in force since 3 July 1988 and is applicable even in the
absence of national implementing legislation.

6. At the present time, the scope of Directive
85/337/EEC (*) is limited exclusively to projects.

7. It is not clear to which plans the question refers.
Community law requires that, for each project requiring
an impact assessment, the provisions of the Directive and
in particular those contained in Articles 3, 5 and 6 must be
respected.

0 OJNoL 175,5.7.1985.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 705/91

by Mr Barry Desmond (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(19 April 1991)_

(91/C 315/30)

_Subject:_ Aquaculture growth and sea trout decline in
Ireland

Sea trout catches in internationally famous fisheries in the
West of Ireland (Mayo/Galway region) declined
drastically in 1989 and 1990. In a recent report by the Sea
Trout Action Group, which represents official and
voluntary angling interests in the area, it is concluded that
the collapse in sea trout numbers is in all probability due
to fish farm derived sea lice as a major new mortality
factor.

The Irish Multi-Annual Guidance Programme for
aquaculture forecasts a rapid expansion in fish farming.
Over 2/3 of Ireland's farmed salmon production and
many of the sites for expansion are located in the region
where sea trout numbers have collapsed.

Does the Commission accept the need for emergency
action to deal with this collapse of wild sea trout stocks?

European Communities No C 315/17

What measures has the Commission taken and what

measures does it intend to take to address this threat to a

vital local and tourist amenity?

Does the Commission accept the recommendations of the
Sea Trout Action Group on the minimum measures which
the Group regards as essential to reverse the current sea
trout collapse and to avoid the obliteration of the
gamefishing industry in the region?

Answer given by Mr Marin
on behalf of the Commission

_(22 May 1991)_

The Commission is aware of the negative effect on the
stocks of wild sea trout in Ireland which is attributed to

certain aquacultural activities.

The Commission considers that such a negative effect has
not yet been clearly demonstrated and has therefore
financed, as part of the FAR programme (Fisheries and
Aquaculture Research — Regulation (EEC) No
3252/87 (')), a research project coordinated by University
College, Cork, to develop molecular markers for studying
the interaction between wild and farmed salmon.

With regard to infection by sea lice, the Commission
financed in September 1990, again as part of the FAR
programme, a research project coordinated by Trinity
College, Dublin, to develop a new, non-polluting method
for the eradication of these parasites.

The Commission considers that any initiative for further
measures in this area is a matter for the national

authorities.

O OJ No L 314, 4.11.1987.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 717/91

by Mr Brian Simpson (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(19 April 1991)_

(91/C 315/31)

_Subject:_ Age of civil aircraft

Can the Commission indicate, for each of the following
Member State airlines, the oldest type of aircraft in
regular, commercial passenger service and their age in

years:

1. British Airways

2. Lufthansa

No C 315/18 Official Journal of the European Communities 5. 12. 91

3. Sabena

4. Air France

5. KLM

6. Alitalia

7. TAP

8. Iberia

9. Air Lingus

10. Luxair

11. Olympic?

Answer given by Mr Van Miert
on behalf of the Commission

_(26 September 1991)_

The type and age of the oldest aircraft in scheduled airline
service with the flag carriers of the Member States, as
identified in the written question, are as follows:

Age (')
(years)

23

20

21

22

20

>20

10

>20

20

15

>20

23

Airline

British Airways

Lufthansa

Sabena

Air France

KLM

Alitalia

TAP

Iberia

Air Lingus

Luxair

Olympic Airways

SAS

Aircraft type

BAC1-11

Boeing 737-200

Boeing 747-100

Boeing 727-200

Boeing 747

McDonnell Douglas DC9-30

Boeing 737

McDonnell Douglas DC9-30

Boeing 737-200

Boeing 747

Boeing 727-200

McDonnell Douglas DC9-30

(') The databases used to extract this information do not always list the
actual age of the aircraft when it is older than 20 years. In this case the
symbol > 20 is given.

A more meaningful statistic is the average fleet age. The
limited information currently available is as follows:

WRITTEN QUESTION No 722/91

by the following members: Karl-Heinz Mihr (S), Fritz Pirkl

(PPE), Madron Seligman (ED), Karl Partsch (V), Heinz
Kohler, Detlev Samland, Peter Crampton (S) and Franz

Stauffenberg (PPE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(23 April 1991)_

(91/C 315/32)

_Subject:_ Membership application by the Republic of
Austria

With reference to the application of 14 July 1989 by the
Republic of Austria to join the European Community and
the Council Decision of 28 July 1989, which requested the
Commission to deliver an opinion on this application,

1. What is the state of progress on this opinion ?

2. Is it possible at this stage to identify central problems
and difficulties which might arise during the further
progress of this application?

3. Will the Commission make contact with the European
Parliament while its opinion is in course of
preparation?

4. When can the Commission's opinion be expected?

Answer given by Mr Andriessen
on behalf of the Commission

_(23 September 1991)_

1, 2 and 4. The Commission's opinion on Austria's
application for membership was presented on 31 July
1991.

3. Under the procedures provided for in the Treaties,
the Council will adopt a decision after consulting the
Commission and after receiving the assent of the
European Parliament.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 732/91

by Mr Eisso Woltjer (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(23 April 1991)_

(91/C 315/33)

_Subject:_ Accuracy of European Community cereal
production figures

In recent years doubt has arisen concerning the accuracy
of the figures published by the Commission for the
1990/91 cereal harvest. A number of publications have

Airline

British Airways

Air France

Air Lingus

TAP

SAS

Sabena

Average fleet age
(years)

9

10

8

5

11

11

5. 12. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 315/19

suggested that the Commission's official figure of 159,7
million tonnes, which is just below the production
threshold of 160 million tonnes, does not correspond to
the real production level. Certain press reports have even
suggested that the production figures were adjusted as a
result of political pressure.

1. Do the official Commission figures for cereal
production in the 1990/91 marketing year correspond
to the actual production level for this period?

2. Does the Commission not consider that such press
reports seriously undermine the credibility of the
European Community and, consequently, the
credibility of the common agricultural policy?

3. Why has the Commission not yet introduced another,
more objective method of establishing cereal
production figures?

4. Is the Commission prepared to follow the example of
the United States by seeking the assistance of an
independent committee of experts in this sector when
drawing up the annual harvest figures?

Answer given by Mr Mac Sharry
on behalf of the Commission

_(14 August 1991)_

The Commission can confirm that the figure of 159,7
million tonnes for cereal production in 1990 was based on
all the information which it had available in February
1991. This information was provided by both farming
organizations and national administrations, came from a
variety of sources and was broken down by cereal crop
and by Member State.

The Commission considers that the method used is the

most objective possible.

The Commission can only regret that certain articles in
the Dutch press have recently called its objectivity into
question.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 743/91

by Mr Maxime Verhagen (PPE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(23 April 1991)_

(91/C 315/34)

_Subject:_ Relations between the Commission and the
Suriname Government

1. Does the Commission agree that new development
projects in Suriname under the Lome IV Convention
should be based on the structural programme developed
for Suriname by the EC?

2. Does the Commission agree — in view of the
far-reaching changes which the introduction of a

generalized system of preferences (GSP) will entail —
that Suriname should be governed by a government
elected by the sovereign will of the people?

3. If so, does the Commission share my view that
Lome IV projects can only be implemented in Suriname if
a government elected by the will of the people declares
itself ready to implement the GSP?

Answer given by Mr Marin
on behalf of the Commission

_(17 September 1991)_

Within the framework of the Lome Convention

cooperation, the Community presently assists Surinam in
preparing a structural adjustment programme (SAP). The
Commission hopes that the country will implement such a
programme and that the Lome IV cooperation will
contribute to its success. However, the Lome IV
Convention does not contain any obligation for an ACP
country to implement a SAP. Therefore, even if Surinam
should decide not to adopt such a programme, it still
would be entitled to benefit from the cooperation
mechanism and funds foreseen in the Lome IV

Convention.

As in the meantime the elections of 25 May 1991 largely
confirmed the pre-coup government parties, it can be
expected that the new Surinam Government will take up
the structural adjustment theme.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 820/91

by Mr Thomas Megahy (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(3_ _May 1991)_

(91/C 315/35)

_Subject:_ Depletion of the tropical rain forests

What action does the Commission propose to take, or is it
currently taking, to limit the contribution made by EC
trade to the depletion of the tropical rain forests? Has it
considered a complete ban on imports of timber or timber
products from forests not sustainably managed?

Answer given by Mr Marin
on behalf of the Commission

_(17 September 1991)_

The volume of tropical timber traded on the international
market accounts for only a fraction of that felled each
year, the rest being either burned to clear land for farming
or used locally.

No C 315/20 Official Journal of the European Communities 5. 12. 91

The Community imports less than a quarter of the timber
exported by the producer countries: most goes to Japan
and the other countries of South-East Asia. However, the
Commission is well aware of the situation in many
producer countries, and of the need for a broad-based
approach if the deforestation threatening tropical forests
is to be combated effectively.

With regard to trade legislation, the Commission is aware
of the importance of ensuring that any measures taken do
not breach the rules governing international trade.

The Commission feels that the impact on the wider
market in tropical timber products of any unilateral
restrictions adopted and the potential advantage to
non-member countries not applying such measures
should be weighed up very carefully. To be truly effective,
such a policy would have to be applied by all leading
trading countries. Consideration should also be given to
the repercussions on timber prices, which could
compromise reforestation attempts. Schemes to create
jobs and alternative employment for the population
might, however, be one solution.

The Commission was interested to see that on the basis of

decisions taken within the International Tropical Timber
Organization, that organization has issued operating
guidelines for the sustainable management of natural
tropical forests. This is a milestone on the way to the year
2000, after which all tropical timber sold must come from
forests that are managed sustainably.

Furthermore, at the meeting of the ITTO Council in May
this year, one of the major points of interest was the
report on measures aimed at encouraging consumers and
producers of tropical timber to promote the sustainable
development of tropical forests.

It should also be remembered that the United Nations

Conference on the Environment and Development
(UNCED) will be held in Brazil next June. The
preparatory Committee is going to look at possible ways
of reaching a consensus, particularly with the developing
countries, on the management, conservation and
development of all types of forest. The Commission
considers these initiatives to be as important as they are
promising.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 865/91

by Mrs Solange Fernex (V)

to the Council of the European Communities

_(8 May 1991)_

(91/C 315/36)

_Subject:_ Monitoring of arms sales in the Member States

Is it possible to monitor the arms sales of EC Member
States to third countries?

Is there at present any way of achieving this through the
Treaty of Rome — through industrial, trade or research
policy, for example — or do the treaties need to be
amended? If so, are amendments planned?

Answer

_(21 October 1991)_

In principle, arms are not, as such, outside the scope of
the Treaty. However, Article 223, and in particular
paragraph 1 (b), allows any Member State to take 'such
measures as it considers necessary for the protection of
the essential interests of its security which are connected
with the production of or trade in arms, munitions and
war material'. The Community does not, in the light of
this exception, have any legal basis for adopting
Community measures.

Given the Treaty as it stands at present, it is, however,
always possible that recourse may be had to its provisions
for the implementation at Community level of a political
decision taken beforehand by the Member States by
common agreement; on this interpretation, the Council
recently adopted measures intended primarily to monitor
the export of certain products (*).

Lastly, the question of monitoring arms exports is
currently being examined in the Intergovernmental
Conference on Political Union.

O See Regulation (EEC) No 3677/90 of 13 December 1990 (OJ
No L357, 20. 12. 1990, p. 1) and Regulation (EEC)
No 428/89 of 20 February 1989 (OJ No L 50, 22. 2. 1989,
p. 1).

WRITTEN QUESTION No 871/91

by Mr Jose Torres Couto (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(8 May 1991)_

(91/C 315/37)

_Subject:_ Raw sugar supplies

The Council has just adopted a proposal for a regulation
amending Regulation (EEC) No 1785/81 O (common
organization of the market in sugar).

The Treaty of Accession of Portugal to the European
Communities (Article 303) refers to the provision of
adequate supplies of raw sugar.

Portugal needs approximately 325 000 tonnes a year
which is in excess of the annual supplies of 300 000 tonnes
it has been accorded.

It is only because of the sugar stocks existing in Portugal
from before Portuguese accession that it has been possible
to maintain a balance between supply and demand, but
this situation is now coming to an end.

5. 12. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 315/21

There is nothing either in the Treaty of Accession or in
regulations restricting supplies to this amount, indeed
there are recent cases in which the volume of supplies
accorded has been based on generous consumption
estimates (for instance the former GDR at the time of
reunification).

Will the Commission say what mechanisms it intends to
implement by 31 December 1992 to guarantee supplies at
Community prices of approximately 325 000 tonnes a
year of raw sugar, giving preference to Community raw
sugar (beet sugar and sugar from the Overseas
Territories) which, however, does not exist in sufficiently
large quantities to meet Portuguese requirements?

O OJNoL193, 16.7. 1981,p. 37.

Answer given by Mr Mac Sharry
on behalf of the Commission

_(26 July 1991)_

The arrangements for the supply of raw sugar to
Portuguese refineries are governed, for the seven-year
transitional period following Portugal's accession to the
Community, by Article 303 of the Act of Accession. This
period therefore comes to an end on 31 December 1992.
Moreover, in a unilateral declaration by the European
Economic Community concerning the sugar refining
industry in Portugal the Community has, in particular,
declared itself:

'prepared to undertake, before the end of the
transitional period, an examination of the overall
situation with regard to supplies for the refining
industry in the Community and in particular the
Portuguese industry, on the basis of a report by the
Commission accompanied if necessary by proposals
enabling the Council to decide, if need be, on the
measures to be taken.'

The question of future supplies to Portuguese refineries
will be examined within this general framework. The
Commission does not envisage proposing to the Council
that the ways and means applicable in this area be altered
during the abovementioned transitional period.

However, with regard to supplies for Portuguese
refineries during the transitional period, the Commission
wishes to emphasize that in the annual decisions taken to
date on the basis of a Community forecast supply balance,
account has been taken to the greatest extent possible of
Portugal's special situation.

For example, for the 1989/90 and 1990/91 marketing
years the Portuguese refineries received special supplies
of 310 000 tonnes expressed as white sugar and, for the
1991/92 marketing year, the quantity of Community raw
beet sugar to be refined in Portugal from 1 July 1992 has
been fixed in advance in order to facilitate supply. This

comprises 82 000 tonnes of raw beet sugar produced
during the 1990/91 marketing year in the territory of the
former German Democratic Republic as part of the quota
allocated to that region.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 882/91

by Mr Friedrich Merz (PPE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(8 May 1991)_

(91/C 315/38)

_Subject:_ PHARE programme

1. What is the staff complement of the work unit in
D G I responsible for the running of the PHARE
programme (as of 15 March 1991)? How many officials
are there is each of the categories A, B and C? What is the
breakdown by nationality and by grade?

How many temporary officials and external staff are
working on the PHARE programme and what is the
make-up of this group?

2. Which reliable means, publications and other
methods does the Commission use to publicize the
PHARE programme in and outside of the Community? In
which languages and with how big a circulation?

What is the distribution of the firms taking part in the
running of this programme among the Member States of
the Community and among the beneficiary States?

How many of the firms involved are small and
medium-sized undertakings?

3. What are the linguistic requirements for
participating in the programme? Is it conceivable that
undertakings or interested parties in the beneficiary States
or the Community Member States might be excluded
from taking part in the programme because they do not
know a particular foreign language?

4. What form of political and economic performance
control — apart from the audits carried out by the Court
of Auditors — does the Commission provide to monitor
the running of this programme, the political success of
which undoubtedly depends in part on its transparency?

Answer given by Mr Andriessen
on behalf of the Commission

_(16 September 1991)_

1. The staff responsible for the running of the PHARE
programme currently comprises 14 category A officials,
seven national officials on secondment, nine category B
officials and 11 category C officials.

No C 315/22 Official Journal of the European Communities 5. 12. 91

2. The department with responsibility for PHARE
publishes a general brochure containing information
about the programme and issues special press releases on
the individual implementing programmes. Those who
work on the PHARE programme are available, in so far as
their heavy workload permits, to answer queries, attend
seminars and give speeches for interested parties. The
service intends to step up its activities in this area.

In addition, PHARE publishes an annual report on the
implementation of the programme and passes on
information to the appropriate authorities in the Member
States who may then decide to publish it themselves.

The Commission has no data as to which of the firms

involved in the programme are small or medium-sized
businesses.

3. Participation in the programme is open to all
interested parties in the Community and the beneficiary
states without discrimination, regardless of origin or
language. Major contracts are awarded in accordance
with the normal rules of good housekeeping, by means of
public invitations to tender which are published in all
languages in the _Official_ _Journal_ _of the_ _European_
_Communities._

4. The department responsible for PHARE follows the
progress and the implementation of the individual
programmes in full compliance with the rules governing
G-24 aid and, in addition to the normal financial controls,
its spending is regularly checked _in situ_ by specially
appointed, independent auditors. Moreover, a detailed
evaluation is carried out on every project. These
arrangements also apply to the Community delegations in
Belgrade, Budapest and Warsaw and will apply to Prague
and Sofia when they are set up.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 885/91

by Mr Anthony Simpson (ED)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(8 May 1991)_

(91/C 315/39)

_Subject:_ Aerial border crossing after 1992

The Commission is rightly working towards opening all
intra-Community borders by 1993. What steps are they
taking to eliminate border controls for non-commercial
flights by privately owned aircraft between Member
States?

Will pilots and passengers of such aircraft be obliged to
go through border controls on leaving one Member State
and on arriving in another?

What will be the position when the airport of original
departure and/or the airport of the ultimate destination
do not have facilities for the required controls to be
carried out? Will intermediate stops at airfields with the
facilities be necessary in both instances?

Answer given by Mr Bangemann
on behalf of the Commission

_(30 September 1991)_

On 3 August 1990 the Commission presented a proposal
for a Council Regulation concerning the elimination of
controls and formalities applicable to the cabin and
checked baggage of passengers taking an
intra-Community flight [. . .] (') which was the subject of
a joint position on 22 July 1991.

The ad hoc Working Party on immigration is examining
the problem of controls of persons at airports within the
framework of the draft Convention on the crossing of
external borders.

Although neither of those measures has been definitively
adopted, it should be pointed out that the definitions of
the concept of 'intra-Community flight' contained in the
current versions of the proposals make no distinction
between commercial and non-commercial flights.

Following the adoption and entry into force of those
instruments, all intra-Community flights, whether
commercial or not, will benefit from free movement
within the Community.

O OJNoC212,25. 8.1990.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 890/91

by Mrs UUa Sandbaek (ARC)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(8 May 1991)_

(91/C 315/40)

_Subject:_ Asbestos

With reference to the Commission's answer to Question
No H-792/90 ('), can the Commission say whether,
under the general provisions contained in Articles 30—36,
a foreign entrepreneur may use asbestos sheets in
Denmark or whether there are circumstances in which

Denmark may maintain a total ban on asbestos without
coming into conflict with the general provisions contained
in Article 30—36?

O Debates of the European Parliament No 3—392 (July 1990).

Answer given by Mr Bangemann
on behalf of the Commission

_(14 June 1991)_

The Commission refers the Honourable Member to its

answer to her oral question H-792/90.

5. 12. 91 Official Journal of th«

In this context, the Commission is willing to examine the
conformity of the Danish legislation with Articles 30—36
of the EEC Treaty, provided the Honourable Member
provides the relevant elements of law and of fact with
respect to the prohibition of construction materials
containing asbestos.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 898/91

by Mrs Anita Pollack (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(8 May 1991)_

(91/C 315/41)

_Subject:_ Bathing water directive

What action is being taken to insist that the UK bring its
designated bathing beaches up to the standards laid down
in the EC bathing water directive?

Is the Commission aware that according to the 'Good
Beach Guide' 103 of 446 British bathing waters failed
basic sewage pollution standards?

Answer given by Mr Ripa di Meana
on behalf of the Commission

_(30 July 1991)_

The Commission has received the report made by the
United Kingdom authorities under Article 13 of Directive
76/160/EEC for the 1990 bathing season ( [1] ). This shows
that 103 out of 446 identified bathing waters failed to
comply with one or both of the Directive's mandatory
standards for the coliform parameters.

The Commission is aware that the United Kingdom
authorities have plans to bring all their identified bathing
waters into compliance with the Directive's standards by
1995 or, in some cases, by 1977. The Commission will be
following closely the progress of the remedial works and
where appropriate it will take or continue action under
Article 169 of the EEC Treaty.

The Commission has already begun proceedings against
the United Kingdom concerning Blackpool, Southport
and Formby beaches. The Court is expected to give its
judgement towards the end of this year.

In addition the Commission decided in June 1990 to open
a further infringement procedure concerning
approximately 40% of United Kingdom designated
beaches which did not comply with the directive in 1987.

European Communities No C 315/23

Certain of the beaches concerned are now in conformity
with the directive.

O OJ No L 31, 5. 2. 1976.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 969/91

by Mr Gerardo Nandez-Albor (PPE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(17 May 1991)_

(91/C 315/42)

_Subject:_ Conversion of the Astano shipyard, Spain

The virtual ban on shipbuilding imposed by the European
Community on the Astano shipyard, Spain, means that
henceforth it will be able to build only off-shore oil
platforms, assuming that the Spanish National Institute of
Industry succeeds in making the undertaking profitable.

Such a measure — which was adopted without regard to
the regional government of Galicia — will entail drastic
job cuts in the El Ferrol shipyard and will make
substantial investment necessary so as to bring about a
radical change in the loss-making trend from which it has
suffered during recent years.

In the light of the above, how, in the Commission's view,
might the European Community compensate the region's
economy so as to alleviate the effects of the ban on
shipbuilding imposed on Astano by the Community, make
the manufacturing plant for off-shore oil platforms
profitable and offset the significant reductions in staffing
levels which the El Ferrol shipyard will be required to
make in the process of conversion?

Answer given by Mr Millan
on behalf of the Commission

_(30 July 1991)_

With regard to measures to alleviate adverse social
consequences following the closure of the Astano
shipyard, the Honourable Member's attention is drawn to
the Commission decision of 6 February 1991 by which the
province of La Coruna was declared eligible under the
Community RENAVAL programme to assist the
conversion of areas affected by the decline in
shipbuilding (').

As from the date of the decision, the Spanish authorities
have six months to submit to the Commission an

operational programme specifying the measures to be
taken under the RENAVAL rules.

O OJNoL50,23.2.1991.

5. 12. 91
No C 315/24 Official Journal of the European Communities

WRITTEN QUESTION No 984/91

by Mr Alain Marleix (RDE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(17 May 1991)_

(91/C 315/43)

_Subject:_ Milk reference quantities

In 1989 the EEC established a reserve of 600 000 tonnes

by way of milk reference quantities for allocation on
request to former dairy farmers who had opted for the
slaughter and reconversion (SLOM) scheme.

Since less than 500 000 tonnes were allocated to those

eligible, the EEC still has at least 100 000 tonnes available.

Since the hill and mountain areas of the EEC are at a great
disadvantage particularly in respect of the quotas
allocated to them, is there any chance of this amount
available being allocated to them as requested by the
French National Federation of Farmers' Unions (FNSEA)
and the National Federation of Dairy Producers? If so,
how long will this take?

Answer given by Mr Mac Sharry
on behalf of the Commission

_(26 July 1991)_

Under the Council's successive decisions determining the
Community reserve for the 12 month periods of
application of the additional levy, the 600 000 tonnes
mentioned by the Honourable Member can be assigned
only to SLOM producers. Further, following the Court of
Justice's recent judgments of 11 December 1990 in cases
C-l89/89 (Spagl) and C-217/89 (Pastatter) and of 21
March 1991 in case C-314/89 (Rauh), which entail both
an increase in the reference quantities already allocated to
SLOM producers and allocation of quantitites to further
SLOM producers, it is already clear that the outstanding
quantity of less than 100 000 tonnes to which the
Honourable Member refers will make only a small
contribution to the additional quantities that have to be
assigned.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 986/91

by Mr Alain Marleix (RDE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(17 May 1991)_

(91/C 315/44)

_Subject:_ Dairy farmers in mountain areas

The President of the Commission, Mr Delors, has several
times referred to the need to allocate an additional quota

of 100 000 litres to dairy farmers in mountain areas of the

EC.

How does the Commission intend to put this into practice
as part of the CAP reform in order to assist small dairy
farmers in mountain areas?

Answer given by Mr Mac Sharry
on behalf of the Commission

_(26 July 1991)_

The Commission has not made implementation of this
proposal dependent on the reform of the CAP. Under
Council Regulation (EEC) No 1183/90 O, milk
producers in mountain areas may receive a supplementary
quantity available. This measure provides proof, if proof
were needed, of the desire to continue the efforts already
made to assist mountain areas and the Commission's

determination to back up its expressed determination by

concrete measures.

(') OJNoL 119, 11.5. 1990.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1019/91

by Mr Honor Funk (PPE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(22 May 1991)_

(91/C 315/45)

_Subject:_ EC aid to Baden-Wurttemberg 1985—1989

What Community funds were paid to BadenWurttemberg from 1985 to 1989 and for what measures
from:

1. the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF),

2. the European Agricultural Guidance and Guarantee
Fund (EAGGF), Guidance Section,

3. the European Agricultural Guidance and Guarantee
Fund (EAGGF), Guarantee Section,

4. the European Social Fund (ESF),

5. European Community research programmes,

6. European Community programmes in the energy

sector,

5. 12. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 315/25

7. European Community programmes in the
environment sector,

8. other European Community programmes?

Answer given by Mr Christophersen
on behalf of the Commission

_(29 October 1991)_

In view of the length of its answer, the Commission is
sending it direct to the Honourable Member and to
Parliament's Secretariat.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1024/91

by Mrs Ursula Braun-Moser (PPE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(22 May 1991)_

(91/C 315/46)

_Subject:_ EC membership for Eastern European countries

1. What is the Commission's opinion on Commissioner
Andriessen's proposals to grant democratic Eastern bloc
countries a seat and a vote in the Community virtually on
the same basis as Member States in certain sectors such as

currency, transport, energy, environment and research, in
spite of the fact that Community membership restricted to
specific areas is impossible given the interdependence of
economic and monetary union, and although even EFTA
countries have been refused concessions in individual

areas?

2. What does the Commission think about the

Commission's proposals to the effect that the 'rich'
Austrians and Scandinavians can be kept waiting while
early membership should be made possible for the Eastern
Europeans (see report in the _Suddeutsche Zeitung_ of 22
April 1991)?

Answer given by Mr Andriessen
on behalf of the Commission

_(9 July 1991)_

The Commission considers that it is necessary to
strengthen links with the Central and Eastern European
countries who are eligible to do so through the
negotiation of Europe agreements. Such negotiations are
under way with Poland, Hungary and Czechoslovakia.
For the moment no application for accession from these
countries has been received. Nonetheless, as indicated in
the speech by Vice-President Andriessen, it is necessary to
reflect on the implications of possible additional
applications for membership in the Community.

As regards the EFTA countries, which were not
specifically referred to in Vice President Andriessen's
speech, the Commission remains committed to the
completion, before the summer, of the current
negotiations for the creation of a European economic

area. Among the EFTA countries, only Austria has so far
introduced a request for membership of the Community.
The Commission expects to deliver its opinion on that
request, in accordance with the relevant provisions of the
Community treaties, by the summer of this year.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1028/91

by Mr Jean-Pierre Raffarin (LDR)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(22 May 1991)_

(91/C 315/47)

_Subject:_ Extension of ERDF Objective No 2

In proposing that the list contained in ERDF Objective
No 2 be extended by two years (1992 and 1993) the
Commission intends to prolong its support to regions in
industrial decline.

Can the Commission specify the amount of this support
which will be allocated to the French regions, and, among
these regions, how much will be granted to the
Poitou-Charentes region?

Answer given by Mr Millan
on behalf of the Commission

_(30 July 1991)_

For the 1992—93 period, the Commission has decided to
allocate to the French Objective 2 regions a sum of ECU
527 million drawn from the Community allocation of
ECU 2 798 million.

A decision on the regional breakdown of this allocation is
expected to be taken following consultation with the
Member State towards the end of July.

In addition to the above sum of ECU 2 798 million, ECU
507 million is available for Community initiatives in
Objective 2 areas in years 1992 and 1993, a proportion of
which will go to French regions.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1030/91

by Mr Jean-Pierre Raffarin (LDR)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(22 May 1991)_

(91/C 315/48)

_Subject:_ Consumption of minced meat

A proposed amendment to Directive 88/657/EEC (') on
minced meat will distinguish between minced meat which
may be eaten 'raw' and that which must first be 'cooked'.

No C 315/26
Official Journal of the European Communities 5. 12. 91

This amendment implies a fundamental change to the
guarantees hitherto used by manufacturers to ensure that
the product purchased by the consumer is of high quality
in terms both of flavour and of health standards.

For example, how can one be sure what method of
preparation a housewife will use when she buys her
minced meat?

Is the Commission aware that minced meat produced
from various kinds of meat can never meet the required
microbiological standards and could represent a hazard to
public health?

(') OJNoL382,31.12. 1991,p.3.

Answer given by Mr Mac Sharry
on behalf of the Commission

_(26 July 1991)_

The Commission proposal for a Council Regulation
laying down the health rules for the production and
placing on the market of minced meat, meat preparations
and comminuted meat for industrial use make a

difference between products intended for direct or
indirect consumption.

It is the firm intention of the Commission to ensure a high
standard of public health through proper implementation
of this proposal.

The consumer should be advised on the method of

preparation of the product either through appropriate
labelling of the product or through suitable notices
present in the point of sale, and therefore be sufficiently
informed so as to handle subsequently the product in a
way avoiding public health risks.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1039/91

by Mr Herman Verbeek (V)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(22 May 1991)_

(91/C 315/49)

_Subject:_ Report on 'The regions in the 1990s' with regard
to rural areas

In its fourth periodic report on the social and economic
situation and development of the regions of the
Community, the regions in the 1990s (COM(90) 609
final), the Commission states that it does not have
sufficient information to give an accurate assessment of
the situation in the rural areas in Objective 5b.

1. When does the Commission expect to receive the
relevant study by the Statistical Office and the
OECD?

2. Does the study take account of the possible
implications for rural areas of the Commission's
restructuring proposals in respect of the common
agricultural policy?

3. Does the Commission not consider it essential to have

the conclusions of the study available before taking
any decisions concerning the restructuring of
agricultural policy in the EC ?

Answer given by Mr Mac Sharry
on behalf of the Commission

_(30 July 1991)_

1. There are no studies as such on rural areas.

However, several studies are being carried out at present
to produce statistical information, thus making it possible
to better characterize rural aras.

The first studies are being carried out by Eurostat and

cover:

— territorial delimitation of rural areas as precisely as
possible, where feasible at local authority level but
taking account of the diversity of administrative
structures among the Member States;

— a definition of 'employment areas', certain aspects of
which involve the rural economy.

At the same time studies are being carried out to define
more closely the eligibility criteria for Objective 5 (b)
rural areas, as laid down in Article 4 of Council
Regulation (EEC) No 4253/88 ('). These studies should
also determine whether there are geographical rural areas
with specific characteristics which do not correspond to
any relevant administrative unit. The latter studies should
be completed towards the end of this year.

2. Against the background of a further reform of the
common agricultural policy, Community rural
development activities will be of even greater importance
than at present. It goes without saying that the results of
the studies being carried out at present will make it
possible to focus even more closely, at the relevant
territorial level, measures in favour of those rural areas
which could undergo major structural adjustments as a
result of agricultural market trends and amendments of
the common market organizations.

3. Nevertheless the Commission considers that the

statistical information already at its disposal will make it
possible to evolve the broad lines of a new agricultural
and rural development policy for the Community. On the
basis of these broad lines, the planned accompanying
structural measures would be laid down at a later date in

5. 12. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 315/27

the light of the new data available and within the
framework of partnership with the competent authorities
in the Member States.

O OJ No L 374, 31.8. 1988.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1055/91

by Mr Jesus Cabezon Alonso and Mr Jose Pons Grau (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(22 May 1991)_

(91/C 315/50)

_Subject:_ Referendum on the Western Sahara

The United Nations Secretary-General is to table to the
Security Council a plan for the holding of a referendum
on self-determination for the Western Sahara.

What political and economic support has the Commission
given, or will it give, to this measure?

Answer given by Mr Matutes
on behalf of the Commission

_(30 September 1991)_

The Community has welcomed the adoption by the
United Nations Security Council of resolution 690 which
approved the Secretary-General's plan for the holding of
a referendum on self-determination for the Saharawi

people. The Commission believes that this will prove an
important step towards a fair and lasting solution to the
conflict in the Western Sahara.

The Commission also confirms its firm support for the
Secretary-General of the United Nations in his efforts to
implement the final phases of his plan.

In this context, the Commission is willing to examine
sympathetically any request made by the
Secretary-General for financial contributions, in
particular for a fund for the repatriation of Saharawi
refugees, who could then exercise their right to vote.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1059/91

by Mr Gerhard Schmid (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(29 May 1991)_

(91/C 315/51)

_Subject:_ The right of psychologists to practise as
psychotherapists in the future internal market

1. What legal provisions exist in the EC Member States
on the recognition of the right of psychologists to practise
as psychotherapists?

2. What sickness insurance rules apply in the Member
States concerning psychologists providing
psychotherapy? What conditions must be fulfilled to
ensure that the cost of psychotherapy carried out by a
psychologist is reimbursed by sickness insurance schemes?

3. Within the framework of internal market legislation,
is the Commission planning to achieve harmonization or
mutual recognition of authorization to practise
psychotherapy (in particular for psychologists) ?

Answer given by Mr Bangemann
on behalf of the Commission

_(5 September 1991)_

1 and 2. It needs to be ascertained whether or not the

person carrying on the activity under consideration is a
doctor. If he or she is a doctor, the 'doctors' Directives
75/362/EEC and 75/363/EEC ('), as amended, provide
for the recognition of diplomas and the coordination of
training. The psychiatry specialization, which is covered
by the Directives, is now common to all Member States
(Directive 89/594/EEC ( [2] ), which took effect on 8 May
1991).

The mutual recognition of these diplomas has a bearing
not only on the right to take up the activities of doctor but
also on the right to pursue those activities under the social
security system.

In the case of a psychologist who is not a doctor, Council
Directive 89/48/EEC of 21 December 1988 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 ( [3] ) also provides
for the recognition of the diplomas of such professionals
where, in the host Member State, the pursuit of their
activities, particularly as part of the social security system,
is subject to conditions regarding qualification.

It should moreover be pointed out that the breakdown of.
responsibilities between doctors and other health
professions as well as the conditions governing access to
the social security system or rates of reimbursement are
governed exclusively by the national regulations of the
Member State in question. Accordingly, the Commission
has no precise information on whether psychologists'
services are covered by the national social security systems
or by the relevant arrangements in force.

3. Since it is general in nature, and not 'sectoral' like
the abovementioned 'doctors' Directives, for example,
and since prior coordination of training and professional
activities between Member States has been deliberately
avoided, Directive 89/48/EEC represents a new approach
in this area. The Commission is not therefore planning to
draw up specific proposals for psychologists or
psychotherapists whether as regards their activities in

No C 315/28 Official Journal of the

general or their access to social security systems in
particular.

(') OJNoL167, 30.6. 1975.
O OJ No L 341, 23.11.1989.
O OJ No L 19, 24. 1.1989.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1079/91

by Mr Gerard Monnier-Besombes (V)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(29 May 1991)_

(91/C 315/52)

_Subject:_ Damage to the environment caused by
Community-funded projects

Community-funded projects (IMPs) carried out on the
'Pas des Ondes' site located in the districts of

Cornillon/Oule and La Motte Charlancon (Drome), have
had a disastrous impact on the environment and
operations have been suspended for several weeks.

Can the Commission indicate without delay its own
position on the matter and the reasons for suspending
operations?

Answer given by Mr Millan
on behalf of the Commission

_(26 July 1991)_

According to information available to Commission staff,
work on the 'Pas des Ondes' site has been temporarily
suspended while two problems are solved, the moving of
an electricity cable and of a local road.

These two problems are now on the way to being solved
and work is expected to recommence shortly.

As regards the project's impact on the area, landscaping
work is planned to preserve and rehabilitate the
countryside and vegetation cover on the site.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1087/91

by Mr Madron Seligman (ED)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(29 May 1991)_

(91/C 315/53)

_Subject:_ Illegal sale of thrush pate

In his answer to my Written Question No 38/90 ( [x] )
deploring the breach of Directive 79/409/EEC ( [2] ), as

European Communities 5. 12. 91

evidenced by the continuing sale of thrush pate,
Commissioner Ripa di Meana maintained that it was for
national authorities to enforce their own legislation (viz.
that implementing the Directive in question).

The trade continues to flourish on a large scale, notably in

Corsica.

As I suggested in my Written Question No 671/91 ( [3] )
(submitted in March this year) on the subject of 'wanton
cruelty to animals in Spain', since exhortation and
legislation and even decisions of the Court of Justice can
be ignored with apparent impunity, the Commission
should be empowered to impose fines on Member States,
which, after due warning, remain in breach of their
obligations.

According to European Report No 1663 of 23 March
1991, the Commission is indeed giving thought to giving
the Court of Justice the power to impose effective
sanctions.

Is the Commission able to do anything worthwhile to
afford protection to song thrushes and other small birds
without first enhancing the Court's powers and, if not,
will it do all it can to expedite the granting of such
powers?

0) OJNoC233, 17.9. 1990, p. 11.
O OJ No L 103,25.4.1979, p. 1.
O OJ No C 281,28. 10.1991, p. 17.

Answer given by Mr Delors
on behalf of the Commission

_(5 September 1991)_

The Commission would point out that the Treaty as it
now stands makes no provision for sanctions against
Member States that fail to fulfil their obligations under
Community law.

However, because of its concern at the relative increase in
the number of persistent infringements where Member
States fail to comply promptly with Court rulings under
Article 169 EEC, the Commission in a working paper ( [x] )
addressed to the Intergovernmental Conference on
Political Union suggested that appropriate provisions be
included in the revised Treaty.

Indeed, the most recent version of the draft Treaty (18
June 1991), drawn up by the Presidency of the
Conference, does add a new paragraph to Article 171
EEC enabling the Commission to ask the Court to impose

5. 12. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 315/29

a penalty payment or predetermined charge on any
Member State failing to implement a judgment.

O SEC(91)500,30. 3.1991.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1089/91

by Mrs Winifred Ewing (ARC)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(29 May 1991)_

(91/C 315/54)

_Subject:_ EC fishing vessels affected by the eight-day
tie-up

Will the Commission give the exact figures of the number
of fishing vessels in each of the Member States which are
affected by the eight-day tie-up ruling of Article 13 of
Council Regulation (EEC) No 3926/90 (') of 20
December 1990?

O OJ No L 378, 31. 12. 1990, p. 1.

Answer given by Mr Marin
on behalf of the Commission

_(29 July 1991)_

Article 13 of Council Regulation (EEC) No 3926/90,
based upon firm scientific advice, seeks to promote the
direct control of fishing effort for cod and haddock.

This article stipulates that an exemption may be given to
Member States which, if the article were applied, would
not be in a position to exhaust their corresponding quotas.
This is the case for Belgium, Germany, France and
Ireland.

It was also indicated by the Commission that means of
limiting effort other than the eight days rule could be
acceptable. This is the case for the Netherlands.

In practice only Denmark and the United Kingdom
remain directly affected. This is a consequence of their
pre-eminent role in the exploitation of the roundfish
fisheries. For instance, United Kingdom catches in ICES
areas IV and VI account for 90 % of EEC catches.

However, it was further accepted by the Commission that
the use of a mesh size of 110 mm should be offered as an

alternative to the eight days rule. This option was chosen
by a majority of the Danish fishermen concerned, so that
at present only four Danish vessels are affected by the
eight days tie-up rule. Although the option of using the
mesh size of 110 mm was also chosen by numerous

fishermen in the United Kingdom, 303 British vessels
remained affected by the eight days rule in April.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1098/91

by Mr Dieter Rogalla (S)

to the Council of the European Communities

_(29 May 1991)_

(91/C 315/55)

_Subject:_ Free movement of persons

1. Does the Council share my view that it has a duty,
deriving from Article 8a (an area without internal
frontiers), to provide information to all the Member
States and the other institutions, in particular the
European Parliament, on the subject of the free
movement of persons?

2. How has the Council fulfilled this obligation as
regards the details of progress made towards the free
movement of persons, have the Heads of State and
government also been kept informed of such progress
and, if so, how?

3. Does the Council share my view that from 1 January
1993 onwards definite priority should be given to the
freedom of movement of citizens and any goods they
carry with them for their personal use on which tax was
duly paid when they were purchased in one of the
Member States?

4. Does the Council also share my view that priority in
the sphere of the free movement of persons should not be
opposed on the grounds that other Community policies
are lagging behind?

Answer

_(21 October 1991)_

1. In replying to numerous Written and Oral
Questions, the Council considers that it has kept the
European Parliament properly informed of progress on
work on the free movement of persons.

2. The European Council meeting in Rome in
December 1990 received a report from the Coordinators'
Group on Free Movement of Persons setting out the
progress made in implementing the Palma document.

3. The Council is careful to ensure that the acts

required to implement Article 8a of the EEC Treaty are
adopted in such a way that the free movement of goods,
persons, services and capital will be guaranteed from 1
January 1993.

4. The Council is not aware of any delay in other areas
which has been occasioned by current work on ensuring
the free movement of persons.

No C 315/30 Official Journal of the European Communities 5. 12. 91

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1115/91

by Mr Anthony Simpson (ED)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(5_ _June 1991)_

(91/C 315/56)

_Subject:_ CAP

Will the Commission indicate how much of the CAP

budget is paid to the farmers directly through the finance
mechanisms?

Answer given by Mr Mac Sharry
on behalf of the Commission

_(5 August 1991)_

Budget appropriations set aside for the common
agricultural policy (CAP) serve to finance the numerous
measures and aids in the agricultural sector. Naturally
only part of these funds is paid directly to the farmers.
The other expenditure goes to the first purchasers of
agricultural products, processors of such products into
foodstuffs, exporters, users and consumers of agricultural
products, it therefore contributes to supporting prices and
farmers' incomes.

'Direct' and 'indirect' payments of EAGGF expenditure
could be broken down as follows (1990 figures):

_(ECUmillion)_

Indirect

payments

20 324,9

1 460,4

21 785,3

Direct

payments

4 723,0

364,9

5 087,9

EAGGF

EAGGF

- Guarantee Section

- Guidance Section

Total

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1122/91

by Mr Diego de los Santos L6pez (ARC)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(5_ _June 1991)_

(91/C 315/57)

_Subject:_ Identification mark for equidae

Commission Decision 90/553/EEC (') lays down
provisions concerning the identification mark for equidae
vaccinated against African horse sickness. In
implementation of these Community provisions, the
Government of Andalusia has adopted rules requiring the
branding of an 'X' on the back of equidae.

Is the Commission aware of the harm done to horse

breeding in Andalusia as a result of this identification
system?

Why does the Commission specify that the identification
mark must be on the left shoulder of Andalusian horses

while leaving a free choice in respect of Portuguese
horses?

In view of the objections raised by breeders, does the
Commission intend to amend its decision on the

identification mark in order to ensure that any damage to
their interests is kept to a minimum?

O OJNoL313, 13. 11. 1990, p. 40.

Answer given by Mr Mac Sharry
on behalf of the Commission

_(29 July 1991)_

Commission Decision 90/553/EEC defined the clear and

indelible mark for identification of equidae vaccinated
against African horse-sickness in the south-west of the
Iberian peninsula.

The mark consists either of a letter marked on the skin by
branding or freeze branding or, in the case of horses
identified by means of a passport, tattooing on the lip.
This identification system is essential to ensure free
movement of these horses on Community territory after
restrictions have been lifted.

For marking to be clear and indelible, it proved necessary,
when Decision 90/553/EEC was adopted, to specify that
in Spanish regions it should be applied on the left
shoulder. The situation is different in Portugal, where the
marking programme already under way provided for the
mark to be applied on the left rump or left side of the neck
of the horse.

The Commission does not consider the marking system
used in the area affected by African horse sickness is
harmful to the horses but rather sees it as an essential

condition if restrictive measures are to be lifted in the

future. Accordingly, the Commission does not intend in
the present circumstances to alter its decision.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1131/91

by Mr Mihail Papayannakis (GUE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(5_ _June 1991)_

(91/C 315/58)

_Subject:_ Crop spraying in Greece

In answer to my question No 534/89 ( [l] ) on the problem
of crop spraying on the Island of Paxos the Commission

5. 12. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities N o C 315/31

said that it was not aware of the facts and that it would ask

the competent Greek authorities to give information
regarding the application of Directives 79/409/EEC ( [2] )
(Articles 2 and 3), 80/778/EEC ( [3] ) (Articles 7 (6), 11 and
19),-75/440/EEC ( [4] ) and 80/68/EEC ( [5] ).

Given that aerial spraying to combat the olive fruit fly is
still taking place over 410 000 hectares of olive groves in
Greece and the insecticides used contain highly toxic
organophosphorous compounds, that crop spraying —
according to a report by the Ministry of Agriculture —
has undesirable effects on the environment (killing of
insects and disrupting the ecological balance) and on
public health (mainly chronic poisoning) and that there
are alternative solutions (for example nets, spraying at
ground level, etc.) can the Commission say:

1. whether it has contacted the Greek authorities? What

was their answer concerning compliance with the
above Directives?

2. whether it intends to take up this matter again and
bring pressure to bear on the Greek authorities to put
an end to aerial spraying as a means of combating the
olive fruit fly?

3. whether it has established to what extent it is

necessary and feasible to control the distribution and
use of pesticides since, in its answer, it referred to its
document on the environment and agriculture
(COM(88) 338 final) in which it stated that it was
aware of the problem of pesticides in general and that
it would investigate the matter in due course?

_i_ _[1]_ _)_ Debates of the European Parliament No 3-384 (December

1989).
O OJNoL 103,25.4. 1979, p. 1.
O OJNoL229, 30. 8. 1980, p. 11.
O OJ No L 194, 25. 7. 1975, p. 26.
O OJNoL20,26. 1.1980, p. 43.

Answer given by Mr Mac Sharry
on behalf of the Commission

_(2 August 1991)_

The Commission has indeed contacted the Greek

authorities, requesting information on the problems
resulting from the spraying of pesticides from the air on
the Island of Paxos.

The Greek authorities have replied in detail, pointing out
that the quantities of pesticides applied per unit of surface
area are extremely low, less even than those applied by
other methods, and that in fact all possible measures are
being taken to avoid negative effects on the environment
and more particularly human beings, local fauna and

water resources.

As a result, the Commission departments have come to
the conclusion that at present there is no infringement of
Community rules.

The Commission is aware of the problems which the
application of pesticides, including aerial spraying, may
represent for the environment, and will continue to work
in this field.

A Commission proposal for a Council Directive
concerning the placing of EEC-accepted plant protection
products on the market of 16 February 1989 (') was
recently adopted by the Council on 27 June 1991. This
proposal provides that plant protection products may be
authorized only if they have no unacceptable effect on the
environment when used appropriately and in compliance
with the conditions laid down when approved.

Furthermore, in its communication on 'Environment and
agriculture' ( [2] ), the Commission pointed out it would
examine in the longer term the introduction of
Community measures to ensure better control of the
distribution and application of plant protection products.
In this context it pointed out that in certain cases, such as
spraying from the aircraft, special authorizations and
technical controls might be required. In view of the
adoption of the aforementioned Directive, the
Commission will commence, in the very near future, the
study work required to draw up a proposal for such

measures.

O COM(89)34.
O COM(88)338.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1152/91

by Mrs Raymonde Dury (S)

to the Council of the European Communities

_(5_ _June 1991)_

(91/C 315/59)

_Subject:_ A reference to comments attributed to the EEC

In an article entitled 'Misery in the suburbs' and under the
heading 'Hello Europe', the Belgian newspaper _La Meuse_
of 27—28 April 1991 wrote:

'Every big city has its high-risk suburbs. Experts on
EEC committees have noted an abnormal, widespread
influx of North Africans and gypsies from Eastern
Europe'.

Has information of this kind really been provided by
members of Community services or external staff?

Answer

_(21 October 1991)_

The Council does not have any information of the kind
requested by the Honourable Member.

No C 315/32 Official Journal of the European Communities 5. 12. 91

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1171 /91

by Mrs Raymonde Dury (S)

to the Council of the European Communities

_(5_ _June 1991)_

(91/C 315/60)

_Subject:_ Recycling of developing countries' debt

What do the Community institutions think about the idea
of recycling developing countries' debt through a scheme
whereby their repayments would be paid in national
currency into a fund, possibly administered in partnership
with their creditors, to be used for the funding of basic
programmes for development (relating, in particular, to
infrastructures) ?

Answer

_(21 October 1991)_

In recent months, the Council has been examining ways of
reducing ACP debt, the ACP countries being the
Community's main developing-country debtors.
Discussion has focused on measures that could be taken

under instruments specific to the Lome Convention, in
particular STAB EX and soft loans.

The Council hopes to reach some practical conclusions in
the near future.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1195/91

by Mr Willem van Velzen (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(5_ _June 1991)_

(91/C 315/61)

_Subject:_ Transfrontier undertakings

In May 1991 the management of the BAT cigarette
factory in Amsterdam announced that the Amsterdam
operation was being closed down and production
transferred to Brussels, even though the Amsterdam
operation had made a profit in 1990.

In the light of this and similar recent developments, does
the Commission recognize the need for prompt European
arrangements guaranteeing information, consultation and
participation for workers in transfrontier undertakings,
and how far have its activities in that area progressed?

How far is the Commission prepared to go, in terms of
proposing relevant directives, in giving its attention to the
problems of the so-called 'external commissioners' in

subsidiary companies? Does the Commission agree that
these commissioners, appointed as they are by the parent
company, undermine the party-political neutrality and
independence of the company's board of commissioners
and unjustifiably restrict the authority of the 'internal'
commissioners?

What possibilities does the Commission see for
preventing subsidiaries from being closed down by the
parent company even when they are making a profit, with
a sometimes disastrous impact on national revenue in the
Member State where the subsidiary was located?

Answer given by Mrs Papandreou
on behalf of the Commission

_(5 September 1991)_

The Commission has adopted, on 5 December 1990, a
proposal for a Council Directive on the establishment of a
European Works Council in Community-scale
undertakings or groups of undertakings (') for the
purposes of informing and consulting employees about
_inter alia_ 'any management proposal likely to have serious
consequences for the interests of the employees of the
undertaking' (paragraph 1 (c) of the Proposal's Annex).

The Honourable Member would be interested to know

that the Commission is also planning to revise Directive
75/129/EEC on collective redundancies ( [2] ) so as to
properly cover cases where the redundancies decision is
taken by a decision-making centre located in a State other
than the Member State in which the collective dismissals

are to be effected.

The Commission is not considering the preparation of
any Community instrument with the purpose referred to
by the Honourable Member's question concerning
auditors.

O OJNoC39, 15.2. 1991.
O OJ No L 48, 22. 2.1975.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1198/91

by Mr Ian White (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(5_ _June 1991)_

(91/C 315/62)

_Subject:_ Health care for workers within the Food
Industry

Could the Commissioner please advise whether:

1. any of the Member States operate a system whereby
health checks are carried out on people prior to their
working in the food industry;

5. 12. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 315/33

any Member State has undertaken research into the
possibilities of serious illnesses being communicated
to members of the public by means of food handled by
carriers of such illnesses e.g. drug abusers preparing
food?

Answer given by Mr Bangemann
on behalf of the Commission

_(29 July 1991)_

1 and 2. The Commission is currently conducting a
survey on the two aspects of the issue to which the
Honourable Member refers. It will make sure that he is

informed of the results.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1209/91

by Mr Jose Happart (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(11 June 1991)_

(91/C 315/63)

_Subject:_ Agricultural stocks

1. What is the cost of the stocks of:

— milk: butter, cheese, powder

— meat,

— wine,

— oils,

— cereals,

giving details per tonne:

— in terms of transport, handling, rental and operating
cost of storage facilities (indicating geographical
location — towns, villages — and names of owners);

— in financial terms;

— in terms of the destruction or disposal of such
products?

2. What are the regions of origin (whether European
or not) of these surpluses?

Answer given by Mr Mac Sharry
on behalf of the Commission

_(26 July 1991)_

1. The Commission has several times, most recently in
answering Written Questions Nos 178/91 (') and
562/91 ( [2] ) provided information on the storage costs for
agricultural products bought in to intervention.

Storage costs are also published each year in the financial
report on the EAGGF Guarantee Section. Copies of the
latest report are being sent to the Honourable Member
and to Parliament's Secretariat.

Since storage operations are financed at flat rates and the
principle of subsidiarity operates the Commission is
unaware of detailed costs. These are of course known to

the intervention agencies managing public storage in each
Member State, which are regularly inspected, e.g. on the
occasion of clearance of accounts by the Commission.

Agricultural products held in intervention storage are not
destroyed. They are disposed of by export to third
countries or consumption within the Community.

2. Intervention purchasing is by definition limited to
products of Community origin. It is carried out in all
Member States.

O OJNoC232,5.9. 1991, p. 17.
O OJNoC248,23.9. 1991, p. 24.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1235/91

by Mr Manuel Medina Ortega (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(11 June 1991)_

(91/C 315/64)

_Subject:_ Export of onions from the Canaries

Can the Commission say how much of the annual quota
of onions from the Canary Islands has been used up from
1986 up to the present day, giving separate figures for
exports to the Spanish market and to the other
Community countries?

Answer given by Mr Mac Sharry
on behalf of the Commission

_(26 July 1991)_

The export of onions from the Canary Islands recorded
by the Community is as follows:

_(tonnes (Eurostat))_

1990

4 253

4 253

1989

7 356

7 356

1987

1 956

1 851

1988

10 072

10 072

of which Spain:

1986

18 869

17 436

No C 315/34
Official Journal of the European Communities 5. 12. 91

It is to be noted that exports fluctuate considerably
because of different annual weather conditions on the

major producer island, Lanzarote.

The annual reduced tariff quota for onions attributable
to the Canary Islands under Community legislation is
8 000 tonnes.

In accordance with the second indent of Article 2 (1) of
the Regulation on the application of Community law to
the Canary Islands (which the Council meeting of 26 June
1991 has just adopted), the rules in force for mainland
Spain henceforth apply to Canary Islands agricultural
products sent to other parts of the Community. This
involves, in particular, the abolition of the tariff quota
referred to above.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1250/91

by Mr Jean-Pierre Raffarin (LDR)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(11 June 1991)_

(91/C 315/65)

_Subject:_ Community aid for the PoitiersFuturoscope-Chatellerault area

In order to strengthen its regional capital, the
Poitou-Charentes region is planning to promote the
development of the Poitiers-Futuroscope-Chatellerault
area. The network of undertakings, training facilities and
communications constitute the first binding elements of a
new conurbation of more than 200 000 inhabitants.

How does the Commission intend to participate
effectively in the emergency of this new urban centre,
which constitutes a structural pivot of regional
development?

Is the Commission prepared to consider the entire area as
eligible for classification as an Objective 2 region, as is
currently the case for Chatellerault?

Can the Commission say what steps it has taken to date to
promote the Poitiers-Futuroscope-Chatellerault area?

Answer given by Mr Millan
on behalf of the Commission

_(30 July 1991)_

The Commission views with interest regional
improvement schemes designed to promote
well-regulated economic and urban development. A
notable example is the PoitiersFuturoscope-Chatellerault area, which received financial
assistance from the European Regional Development
Fund for several structural projects associated

with the Futuroscope site, in particular the construction
of an innovatory Lycee and transfer of the ENSMA
research laboratories.

Financing from the structural Funds has, however, been
limited, since the reform introduced on 1 January 1989, to
areas whose eligibility has been determined on the basis of
the criteria laid down in the rules governing the structural
Funds. Accordingly, in the Poitiers-FuturoscopeChatellerault area, only Chatellerault is considered
eligible for Objective 2 classification.

The Poitiers-Chatellerault area as a whole cannot

therefore be considered as eligible for classification as an
Objective 2 region.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1258/91

by Mrs Christine Oddy (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(14 June 1991)_

(91/C 315/66)

_Subject:_ Price of sheepmeat and subsidies

What was the market price of a sheep carcass in New
Zealand, France and Britain in 1990, 1985 and 1980
respectively?

What was the subsidy per sheep carcass in New Zealand,
France and Britain in 1990,1985 and 1980 respectively?

Answer given by Mr Mac Sharry
on behalf of the Commission

_(26 July 1991)_

Producer market prices for lamb, the most important
product of the sheepmeat sector, in the years requested by
the Honourable Member were as follows:

_(ecu per 100 kg)_

Marketing year

1980/81

1985

1990

Great Britain

226,781

258,284

248,331

France

361,353

367,337

264,504

Market support measures in the Community to date have
been calculated on the basis of the difference between the

basic price fixed by the Council and the regional market
price and subsequently translated into a premium payable
per ewe. However, for Great Britain part of the difference
between the market price and the basic price has been
translated into a variable slaughter premium paid on a
weekly basis and relating to sales actually taking place. At
present, the sheepmeat regime is in a transitional

5. 12. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 315/35

phase with the variable slaughter premium now due to be
phased out at the end of 1991 and after Greece having
stopped to be treated as a separate region at the end of
1992, a Community wide ewe premium is due to be
introduced from the 1993 marketing year onwards. For
Great Britain, the average level of variable slaughter
premium paid in the 1980/81 marketing year was ECU
55,43 per 100 kg, in 1985 was ECU 82,691 per 100 kg and
in 1990 was ECU 60,539 per 100 kg.

The levels of ewe premium fixed were:

_(ecu per ewe)_

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1267/91

by Mr Yves Verwaerde (LDR)

to the Council of the European Communities

_(14 June 1991)_

(91/C 315/68)

_Subject:_ Combating drugs

Following the new anti-drug initiative launched at the
Dublin European Council on 25 and 26 June 1990, could
the Council give a brief summary of the activities of the
European Committee to Combat Drugs (CELAD) ?

Answer

_(21 October 1991)_

CELAD submitted a European plan to combat drugs to
the European Council in Rome in December 1990.

This plan is being put into effect. Particular emphasis
should be laid in this connection on the examination of

the feasibility study on a 'European Drugs Monitoring
Centre' prepared by the Commission departments.

On the recommendation of CELAD, the European
Council meeting in Luxembourg on 28 and 29 June
approved the principle of setting up a European Drugs
Monitoring Centre with the provision that the discussion
remained open on the practical arrangements for its
implementation, e.g. its size, institutional structure and

computer systems.

These matters need to be examined in more detail and a

positive conclusion reached before the Monitoring Centre
can actually be set up.

The European Council instructed CELAD to continue
and complete the work to that end in liaison with the
Commission and the other relevant political bodies.

Furthermore, in accordance with the conclusions of the
Rome European Council, Member States have adopted
coordinated positions at international meetings, such as
the Oslo Conference (9 and 10 May 1991).

The work of the Task Force on precursors and the clauses
on drugs in the draft Association Agreements with
Czechoslovakia, Hungary and Poland have been closely
examined by CELAD.

With regard to Community discussions on precursors, it
should be noted that in December 1990 the Council

adopted a Regulation on trade with third countries. A
proposal for a Directive on intra-Community trade is
being discussed within the Council's subordinate bodies.

CELAD welcomed the agreement reached on 10 June
1991 on the proposal concerning money laundering.

Marketing year

1980/81

1985

1990

Great Britain

1,092

11,836

14,076

France

0

8,850

23,839

In so far as producer market prices and support measures
in New Zealand are concerned the Commission does not

have sufficient data for New Zealand.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1259/91

by Mrs Christine Oddy (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(14 June 1991)_

(91/C 315/67)

_Subject:_ Model scheme for information on rural
development initiatives and agricultural markets
(MIRIAM)

When will this scheme finally be approved? What are the
main problems in reaching agreement on this scheme?

Answer given by Mr Mac Sharry
on behalf of the Commission

_(2 August 1991)_

The Commission's proposal to create a model scheme for
information on rural development initiatives and
agricultural markets (MIRIAM) (') was discussed by the
Council on 4 March 1991, when there was no qualified
majority in favour of the proposal. The proposal remains
at present on the Council table.

O COM(90) 230 final.

No C 315/36 Official Journal of

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1274/91

by Mr Ian White (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(14 June 1991)_

(91/C 315/69)

_Subject:_ Greyhound breeding

By what criterion is the breeding of greyhounds
categorized as 'alternative farming enterprise' in the
Republic of Ireland? Who introduced this concept? How
can European monies be made available if an applicant is
already a breeder, or a farmer taking up an alternative
enterprise?

Answer given by Mr Mac Sharry
on behalf of the Commission

_(26 July 1991)_

Financial aid is available from Community funds for rural
development in the Member States. To obtain this aid,
Member States must submit, for approval by the
Commission, a detailed programme describing the
projects which they propose to support. The programme
submitted by the Irish government includes a
sub-programme for diversification of the rural economy
and part of this sub-programme involves greyhound
breeding and rearing.

Greyhound breeding and rearing is an integral part of
rural life in certain parts of Ireland, traditionally carried
out to augment the earnings of small farmers and rural
dwellers who typically keep up to three dams for breeding
purposes. Aid for these breeders will be available at a rate
of 50 % in less favoured areas and 40 % elsewhere towards

the cost of expenditure on housing and handling facilities,
subject to a ceiling of 5 000 Irish pounds investment
aided. The Community will co-finance 60 % of the public
expenditure involved.

The granting of this aid is subject to several conditions.
Among these are:

— certification by the Irish Greyhound Board that the
applicant has the necessary expertise and resources to
undertake the project, that the project is proceeding
having due regard to the market situation and that an
appropriate market plan has been prepared;

— the availability to the applicant of sufficient land to
operate the enterprise concerned, consistent with the
requirements of animal welfare and hygiene and with
the need to safeguard the environment.

Interested farmers should apply to the Department of
Agriculture, which is responsible for the administration of
these aids.

e European Communities 5. 12. 91

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1280/91

by Mr Ernest Glinne (S)

to the Council of the European Communities

_(14 June 1991)_

(91/C 315/70)

_Subject:_ Shortcomings of the World Health Organisation

The W H O Annual Assembly in Geneva recently discussed
the question of 'Health for All in the Year 2000'. The
problem facing this UN Agency appears to be not so much
budgetary ($1,7 billion for 1992—93) as structural. The
WHO, which owed its inception to the needs of post-war
Europe, is still too concerned by 'Northern' problems
such as the prevention of diseases caused by alcohol and
tobacco and safety measures, for example seat belts,
rather than 'Southern' problems such as the purchase of
the vaccines, medication and medical equipment
necessary for the prevention of diseases such as malaria,
dysentery, tuberculosis, measles etc.

1. What are the contributions of the Community and its
Member States to the W H O budget, expressed in cash
terms and percentages?

2. What proportions are earmarked for 'Northern' and
'Southern' needs respectively?

3. Is it true that 75 % (!?) of the budget earmarked for the
Geneva headquarters and regional administrations is
spent on for the remuneration of administrative
personnel, as claimed by the Institute for National
Health and Development at the Catholic University of
America in Washington, and that the WHO
(according to the same source) spends $8 on
administration and planning for every $2 spent on
implementing a specific programme?

4. Can the concentration of the WHO in Geneva, the
priority given to programmes of interest to Europe
and North America, the. increase in the amounts
earmarked for Europe (20% this year) and the
reduction in the amounts earmarked for Africa and

Latin America be justified?

5. Given that the WHO acts mainly as a research centre
coordinating working parties and, in a secondary
capacity, as an on-the-spot agency (for example, in
carrying out a study of cholera in Peru without

    - assisting any of the victims), is there any reason why
the headquarters should not be moved and the
organization restructured or replaced?

Answer

_(21 October 1991)_

It is not for the Council to reply to the questions put by
the Honourable Member. Under Article 229 of the Treaty

5. 12. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 315/37

it is for the Commission to ensure the maintenance of all

appropriate relations with the organs of the United
Nations and its specialized agencies, including the WHO.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1288/91

by Mr Terence Wynn (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(14 June 1991)_

(91/C 315/71)

_Subject:_ Reform of the CAP

What are the latest estimates of the Commission for the

evolution of agricultural expenditure with regard to the
1991 budget, the 1992 preliminary draft budget, the
agricultural guideline and the price proposals for 1991
and 1992?

Answer given by Mr Mac Sharry
on behalf of the Commission

_(30 July 1991)_

The Commission will assess the 1991 budgetary situation
in the course of the next few weeks. The present situation,
based on estimates for last January and the 1991/92 price
proposals, is as follows:

_(millions of ecu)_

1992
PD-budget

35 039 O

34 660

—

###### -o

+ 732

35 392

1991
budget

32 511

31 516

+ 1 475

 - 540

+ 79

32 530

A.

B.

Agricultural guideline
(EAGGF-Guarantee)

Agricultural expenditure
(EAGGF-Guarantee)

— initial budget

— revision January

— price proposals incidence

— price decisions incidence

Total B

(') Revised following the price decision.
( [2] ) The impact of the Commission's original proposal (- ECU 2 057 000)
is included in the 1992 preliminary draft budget.

The financial impact of the Council decisions on
agricultural prices and related measures for the 1991/92
marketing year may be financed within the limit of the
budget guideline for 1991. Moreover, taking account of
foreseeable favourable conjunctural developments and
management savings, the budget guideline for 1992 will
also be respected.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1333/91

by the following members: Renzo Imbeni,
Roberto Barzanti, Rinaldo Bontempi, Luciana Castellina,

Fernando Perez Royo, Luigi Colajanni, Renzo Trivelli

and Luciano Vecchi (GUE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(24 June 1991)_

(91/C 315/72)

_Subject:_ Situation of the Palestinian universities since
January 1988

In February 1990, at Parliament's request, the
Commission decided on a partial freeze in scientific
cooperation with Israel as a means of compelling that
country to comply with the Council's call to reopen all the
Palestinian universities closed since January 1988.

The Commission has just decided to resume that
cooperation as a mark of support for the state of Israel,
the victim of unlawful bombing attacks by Iraq.

How does the Commission intend to secure the reopening
and proper functioning of the Palestinian universities?

Answer given by Mr Matutes
on behalf of the Commission

_(13 September 1991)_

After the European Parliament resolution in January 1990
on the peace process and the situation in the Occupied
Territories, the Commission took a decision on 7
February 1990 to postpone the steering committee
meeting on scientific cooperation with Israel that was
scheduled to take place in April 1990.

On 24 January 1991 the Commission decided to resume
the normal course of its relations with Israel in the field of

scientific cooperation.

On the other hand, the Community and its Member
States have made numerous demarches before the Israeli

authorities to remind Israel of its obligations under the
Fourth Geneva Convention on the protection of the
civilian population in times of war. These obligations
include the right of the Palestinians to education.

In particular, the Community and its Member States have
asked Israel many times to reopen all Palestinian
universities in order to put an end to a situation that has
kept the vast majority of Palestinian higher-education
students out of their universities since January 1988.

The last of these demarches took place on 25 June 1991;
Israel had indicated that all remaining Palestinian
universities would be reopened by 1 June 1991 and the

No C 315/38 Official Journal of the European Communities 5. 12. 91

Community and its Member States reminded the Israeli
authorities of this statement and recalled the importance
they attach to this question.

Currently, the universities of Bethlehem and Al-Quds are
functioning, Hebron University is open although not
functioning normally, and An-Najah University of
Nablus has been given permission to reopen. Only Bir
Zeit University and the Islamic University of Gaza remain
closed; however, they account for over half of the total
number of higher-education students.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1347/91

by Mr Elio Di Rupo (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(24 June 1991)_

(91/C 315/73)

_Subject:_ Scientific cooperation with Israel

About a year ago the Commission decided to impose a
partial freeze on scientific cooperation with Israel in
order to press for the permanent reopening of all the
Palestinian universities closed since January 1988.

On 26 January 1991, when everyone in Europe
commended the restraint shown by the Israeli
Government in not retaliating in response to the
unjustifiable Iraqi missile attacks, the Commission
decided to resume this cooperation.

Does this mean that the reopening of the Palestinian
universities, which has frequently been announced as
imminent by the Israeli occupying forces, is now definite?

The entry into the government of Mr Shamir of the
Moledet Party, which openly advocates transferring the
entire Palestinian population from the occupied
territories as well as the Israeli Arabs, suggests that the
search for a fair and lasting solution to the Palestinian
question will be compromised. Europe has always
supported a balanced approach to this question with
secure borders for Israel and a state for the Palestinians.

Would the Commission state its position on this matter?

Answer given by Mr Matutes
on behalf of the Commission

_(6 November 1991)_

The Commission would refer the Honourable Member to

the reply to the oral question H-147/91 by Mrs Valent,

which it gave during question time at Parliament's
February 1991 part-session ( [1] ).

(') Debates of the European Parliament No 3-401 (February
1991).

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1444/91

by Mr Hugh McMahon (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(12 July 1991)_

(91/C 315/74)

_Subject:_ Technology for the Socio-Economic Integration
of Disabled and Elderly People (TIDE)

Can the Commission inform the House what their

intentions are concerning the above programme and in
particular will disabled groups be allowed to be part of the
planning group agreeing projects.

Answer given by Mr Pandolfi
on behalf of the Commission

_(31 July 1991)_

The objective of the Commission concerning TIDE at this
time is to ensure the implementation of a successful pilot
phase.

The call for proposals has just finished and some 70
proposed projects are in the process of evaluation by an
international panel of experts. A report on the results of
the evaluation will be prepared and presented to the TIDE
expert Committee which is due to meet in Brussels on the
4 and 5 September.

Disability groups were directly and extensively consulted
for the creation of the work plan for the pilot phase, to
ensure that their expertise and concerns were
incorporated in TIDE prior to the call for proposals.
However the evaluation group selecting projects for the
pilot phase is not constituted on the criterion of disability
but on their outstanding knowledge in the areas of
control, communication and information technologies
with particular reference to the field of rehabilitation
technology. Rehabilitation technology is based on the
adaptation of existing high technology to the user
requirements in order to increase their independence and
integration.

For the implementation of the TIDE programme a
coordination will be assured with the HELIOS

programme for disabled people.

5. 12. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 315/39

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1450/91

by Mr Gunter Topmann (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(12 July 1991)_

(91/C 315/75)

_Subject:_ Incorporating Technical Directive TRS 006
(Technical Directive on Roads, Federal Republic
of Germany) in the ADR Agreement

Directive TRS 006 gives further guidance on the
requirement 'legible' in Regulation 10 500,
paragraph 5(2) of Annex B of the ADR regulations on
carriage of dangerous goods by road. The requirement
'legible after a fire' is said to have been fulfilled if the
identification plaque is subjected to a fire test according
to Regulation 3637, paragraph 3 GGVS/ADR, and all the
figures are legible after the test. '

According to Regulation 3637, paragraph 3 GGVS/ADR,
a heating test is satisfactory if the heat directed onto the
material to be tested is not less than that which would be

produced if the whole of the article to be tested was
subjected to a surrounding temperature of 800 °C for 30
minutes, with a radiation coefficient of at least 0,9.

Does the Commission think it possible to incorporate the
strict provisions of German Directive TRS 006
(requirements for orange warning signs) in the ADR
agreement?

Answer given by Mr Van Miert
on behalf of the Commission

_(4 October 1991)_

The Commission will always welcome any improvement
to the safety conditions in which the carriage of
dangerous goods must be undertaken.

However, as the European Community is not a signatory
to the European Agreement concerning the international
carriage of dangerous goods by road (ADR), the
Commission is not in a position to comment on the
amendment sought by the Honourable Member,
particularly as, at the moment, it does not have enough
details to enable it to gauge the validity of such a measure.

Nevertheless, if the Government of the Federal Republic
firmly believes it appropriate to incorporate such an
amendment into the ADR, it will doubtless take steps
through its own delegation at the periodic meetings of
Working Party No 15 of the UN Inland Transport
Committee in Geneva, which is the appropriate forum in
which to consider any such proposals.

In this instance, and within the limits of its observer

status, the Commission could support consideration for
such a measure within this body.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1453/91

by Mr Floras Wijsenbeek (LDR)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(12 July 1991)_

(91/C 315/76)

_Subject:_ Delays for goods traffic at Venlo

Is the Commission aware of the enormous damage being
done to Netherlands fruit and vegetable exports by delays
at the Venlo frontier crossing on the E3, as a result of the
reduction in working hours of German customs officials
who are thus anticipating European unification?

Does the Commission not agree that until frontier checks
are abolished traffic should be dealt with correctly and
rapidly, particularly where perishable goods such as fruit
and vegetables are concerned?

What steps does the Commission propose to take?

Answer given by Mrs Scrivener
on behalf of the Commission

_(20 September 1991)_

The Commission has been informed of the regrettable
situation referred to by the Honourable Member and has
brought it to the attention of the German authorities.

The Commission would point out that it is the
responsibility of the Member States' competent
authorities, under the Treaty, to ensure that customs
procedures are carried out properly.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1477/91

by Mrs Brigitte Ernst de la Graete (V)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(16 July 1991)_

(91/C 315/77)

_Subject:_ EEC-China Agreement and human rights in
China

At the meeting of the Foreign Ministers of the European
Community of 2 and 3 June 1991 in Dresden, the Italian
Foreign Minister, Mr de Michelis, proposed a political
agreement between the European Community and China.

No C 315/40 Official Journal of the European Communities 5. 12. 91

How does the Commission view this proposal, given
China's lack of progress in respect of human rights since
the crushing of the pro-democracy demonstrations in
Peking and the continued occupation of Tibet?

Answer given by Mr Andriessen
on behalf of the Commission

_(19 September 1991)_

The Commission has no knowledge of any Italian
proposal concerning a political agreement between the
Community and China. The contractual framework for
the Community's relations with China is the 1985
Commercial and Economic Cooperation Agreement.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1482/91

by Mr Jean-Pierre Raffarin (LDR)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(16 July 1991)_

(91/C 315/78)

_Subject:_ Assistance for university programmes in
Poitou-Charentes

The central and local authorities are currently drawing up
a plan for the development of university-level education
in Poitou-Charentes in order to promote education and
training as a priority in respect of regional development
centred on the university campus of Poitou and other
localities, including two industrial redevelopment sites: La
Rochelle and Chatellerault, Objective 2 areas defined by
the Community for Poitou-Charentes.

The Community has already announced that it is willing
to extend the aid for the industrial and social

redevelopment areas in Poitou-Charentes for the next

two years.

What measures and procedures will enable the
Commission to provide funding for the new university
programmes in the areas covered by the European
Structural Funds?

Answer given by Mr Millan
on behalf of the Commission

_(6 September 1991)_

In areas eligible under Objective 2, expenditure on
investment and the equipping of research and higher
education facilities in science and technology is entitled to

ERDF assistance in 1992—93 subject, to the following

conditions:

— official resubmission by the Member State of
conversion plans and operational programmes
submitted in 1989 for the period 1989—91 suitably
updated or amended for the new period 1992—93;

— consistency of these plants with the financial resources
available, with the recognized strengths and
weaknesses of the areas concerned, and with the
planned conversion strategy

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1513/91

by Mr Madron Seligman (ED)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(23 July 1991)_

(91/C 315/79)

_Subject:_ Unjustifiable duty on masa flour

A firm in my constituency, C. Shippam, Ltd., sought my
help long ago because a substantial duty is levied on masa
flour imported from an American company in this group
for processing into taco shells by a Dutch subsidiary, 'Old
El Paso BV, notwithstanding the fact that there is no EC
manufacturer of masa flour, which might have needed
protection.

The British Department of Trade and Industry
established at the end of 1990 that EC-EFTA agreement
had been secured in May of that year to remove the duty.
The matter was said to be handled by DG XXI, DG I and
the Commission's legal services.

My attempts to cut through bureaucratic red tape and put
an end to apparently limitless procrastination by speaking
to some of the people concerned have, alas, proved
fruitless; hence this question. If it has been agreed that the
duty is not necessary, why has remedial action been so
long delayed?

Answer given by Mrs Scrivener
on behalf of the Commission

_(13 September 1991)_

The request to amend the rules of origin of Protocol No 3
to the EEC/EFTA Free Trade Agreements for certain
products of HS heading No 1905, referred to by the
Honourable Member, has been dealt with in accordance
with the normal procedures for such cases which involve
consultations within the Commission, discussions with
Member States in the EC Origin Committee, meetings

5. 12. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities N o C 315/41

with EFTA officials, the adoption of a common position
of the Community by the Council and the formal
submission of the proposal to the six EC/EFTA Joint
Committees through the appropriate diplomatic channels.

The agreement between the EEC and EFTA reached in
the course of last year and mentioned by the Honourable
Member was only an informal agreement at expert level
on the principle of the requested derogation. This could
neither replace nor prejudge the outcome of the formal
procedures to be subsequently followed with a view to the
adoption of a Decision by the Joint Committees.

The Commission submitted to the Council on 23 July
1991 a proposal for the adoption of a common position of
the Community on this matter. The draft Decision should
normally be submitted to the Joint Committees shortly
after the summer recess and the Decision is expected to
enter into force in the course of the autumn.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1555/91

by Mrs Winifred Ewing (ARC)

to the Council of the European Communities

_(24 July 1991)_

(91/C 315/80)

_Subject:_ EC aid to Cambodia

Will the Council please state what its current position is
with regard to Cambodia? Does it have any current or
future plans to send development aid to that country and,
if so, are there any preconditions?

Answer

_(21 October 1991)_

The Community and its Member States have always
supported the efforts of the Five Permanent Members of
the UN Security Council and the two co-Chairmen of the
Paris Conference to achieve lasting peace in Cambodia
and have followed closely the recent meetings in Thailand
and in Paris. They hope that these steps will improve the
prospects for a comprehensive settlement of the
Cambodian conflict.

The Community and its Member States are already
providing humanitarian aid to the Cambodian people in
particular to assist refugees. They stand ready to
contribute to Cambodia's reconstruction and

development as soon as a political solution has been
found to the conflict.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1570/91

by Mr Gerardo Fernandez-Albor (PPE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(24 July 1991)_

(91/C315/81)

_Subject:_ The promotion of cooperation and mergers in
the Community iron and steel industry

Following the creation of the Spanish iron and steel
holding company which unites all the integrated iron and
steel companies in the country, some of its directors
consider that it is not on a large enough scale and that in
future the sector should be linked with other European
iron and steel companies.,

Some of them feel that the iron and steel industry must be
reshaped in the context of the Community market; and in
view of the excessive fragmentation of the market, since
there are 17 iron and steel companies in the European
Community, competing with one another, and therefore
mergers or links between them should be encouraged.

To what extent does the Commission consider that the

views of Spanish iron and steel management reflect the
truth and, if it agrees with them, how does it consider its
moral authority might influence a process of mergers or
links in the sector on a Community scale, in order to
develop the sector and create a truly modern and
competitive Community iron and steel industry?

Answer given by Sir Leon Brittan
on behalf of the Commission

_(16 September 1991)_

As the Honourable Member is no doubt aware, the
Commission has powers under Article 66 of the ECSC
Treaty to authorize certain transactions which result in a
concentration between steel undertakings.

In its General Objectives for Steel — 1995 ('), the
Commission spelled out the twin objectives that it will
continue to pursue in applying Articles 65 and 66 of the
ECSC Treaty: (a) preserving effective competition, in the
interests of the dynamism of producers and distributors
and in the interests of consumers, and (b) facilitating the
structural development which is still necessary and which,
without jeopardizing the first objective, will enable the
steel industry to continue its restructuring and
modernization effort with a view to facing keener
international competition more squarely.

Although it is aware of statements by managers of the
companies concerned, the Commission decides on a
concentration solely on the basis of the files submitted for
the purpose of the authorization proceedings, taking
account of the conditions for maintaining effective
competition laid down in Article 66. Under Article 47 of

No C 315/42 Official Journal of the European Communities 5. 12. 91

the ECSC Treaty, the Commission is moreover bound by
the obligation of professional secrecy.

O COM(90) 201 final.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1597/91

by Mrs Ursula Schleicher (PPE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(24 July 1991)_

(91/C 315/82)

_Subject:_ Construction of a motorway in the Algarve,
bridge over the Rio Guadiana

The Portuguese authorities are currently building a
motorway in the south of Portugal in the Algarve. Both
the local population and tourists object that the work
involved in the construction of the motorway is
destroying valuable natural habitats and landscapes which
ought to be preserved.

1. Is the Commission aware of the ecological impact of
this motorway project?

2. Was an environmental impact assessment carried out
when plans for the motorway were submitted or when
construction work commenced?

3. If not, is it possible that if such an environmental
impact assessment had been carried out, the
construction of the motorway in its present form
would not have been authorized?

Answer given by Mr Ripa di Meana
on behalf of the Commission

_(8 November 1991)_

The Commission would refer the Honourable Member to

the reply to the oral question H-1078/90 by Mr da Cunha
Oliveira, which it gave during question time at
Parliament's November 1990 part-session (').

(') Debates of the European Parliament No 3-396.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1617/91

by Mr Sotiris Kostopoulos (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(25 July 1991)_

(91/C 315/83)

_Subject:_ Immediate removal of restrictions on currency
exchange transactions for businessmen

Greece imposes a ceiling on currency exchange for
businessmen, craftsmen and manufacturers which
hampers them in conducting business abroad. These
problems will of course disappear after 1992 following the
creation of the Single European Market, complete

liberalization of currency exchange and the free
movement of capital.

Will the Commission request the Greek Government
immediately to liberalize currency exchange transactions
for businessmen who are able to prove that they are
travelling abroad on business since the next two years will
be crucial for bringing Greek industry into line with
Community standards?

Answer given by Mr ChristopherSen
on behalf of the Commission

_(30 September 1991)_

Payments linked to professional journeys abroad
constitute current transactions and as such they should be
carried out without foreign exchange restrictions in all
Community countries.

Since Greece is allowed to keep temporarily certain
restrictions on the movement of, mainly short-term,
capital, the Greek authorities keep the right to verify the
authenticity of the relevant transactions when they exceed
a certain basic allowance that is granted without any
justification.

Concerning journeys for professional reasons this basic
allowance is 200 US dollars per day for a maximum period
of 100 days. For companies that fulfil certain criteria, such
as the value of exports, the basic amount is 150 dollars per
day for as many days as the journey lasts. Enterpreneurs
can, alternatively, make use of the tourist allowance
which was recently raised to ECU 1 400 per person per
journey. Additional amounts can be provided on the basis
of supporting documents. Moreover, the use of credit
cards is now fully liberalized. These arrangements widen
significantly the possibility for enterpreneurs to obtain
foreign exchange.

In view of the above it could be argued that there is no
infringement, by Greece, of Community regulations
concerning the foreign exchange regime of payments
linked to professional journeys. The Commission services
continue nevertheless to monitor the way national
regulations are applied so that authenticity control of
transactions does not lead to indirect obstacles to

liberalized capital movements.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1620/91

by Mr Madron Seligman (ED)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(25 July 1991)_

(91/C 315/84)

_Subject:_ Licensed aircraft maintenance engineer

With the approach of the Single Market the EC has
already taken steps to secure the mutual recognition of

5. 12. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 315/43

professional diplomas within the Community. However, a
number of my constituents who are members of the above
described profession, have expressed their concern to me
that they may be unable to secure employment in another
Member State, since their professional competence is
attested by their employers rather than by a university or
other independent organization.

Although I have received assurances from the Civil
Aviation Authority in the UK that the present practice of
the Joint Aviation Authorities has never, to their
knowledge, operated to the detriment of any engineer
seeking employment abroad, I would ask the Commission
to consider liaising with the JAA with a view to ensuring
that the Joint Aviation Rules (JAR 65), which are designed
to ensure aircraft safety internationally, and the current
certification procedures are acceptable to all airlines
operating in Member States, so that such engineers are
able with confidence to seek employment in any Member
State.

Answer given by Mr Van Miert
on behalf of the Commission

_(26 September 1991)_

The Commission is proposing the harmonization of
technical requirements and procedures applicable to civil
aircraft ('). Part of this harmonization applies to the
certification of individuals and organizations involved in
the maintenance of aircraft. The Commission proposes to
base these Community rules on Joint Aviation
Requirements (JARs) as developed by the Joint Aviation
Authorities (JAA).

The main objective of the JAR code is to ensure that
aircraft are maintained to a consistently high level to
ensure they achieve the same standard of safety
irrespective of the type of organization or country of
operation within the Community.

The question of whether a maintenance engineer should
be licensed by the aviation authorities or by the
maintenance company has not yet been resolved.
However, whichever approach is adopted, maintenance
engineers will be licensed in accordance with Community
requirements and procedures as specified in JAR 65, and
could therefore be recognized by other authorities and/or
companies within or outside of the Member States as
meeting a specific standard.

Liaisons between the Commission and the JAA will

continue at the necessary levels.

O OJNoC270,26. 10. 1990.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1697/91

by Mr Carlos Robles Piquer (PPE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(6 August 1991)_

(91/C 315/85)

_Subject:_ Complaints against the Community from the
President of Chile

During the Chilean President's visit to Spain he
complained bitterly about the European Community's
lack of interest in Latin America and Chile in particular.

Spain's well-known willingness to ensure that greater
priority is given to that continent is not reflected in the
rest of the Community. The Chilean President also
complained that there are still 'very tangible obstacles'
jeopardizing trade in Latin American products.

What measures does the Commission think it could

propose to ensure that the 'tangible obstacles' referred to
by Mr Patricio Aylwin are removed and do not continue
to be detrimental to Latin American products.

Answer given by Mr Matutes
on behalf of the Commission

_(24 September 1991)_

The Commission does not have the impression that the
'bitter complaints' said to have been expressed in Spain by
the Chilean President are characteristic of Chile's attitude

to the Community. One has only to refer to the speech
President Aylwin gave in the European Parliament on 17
April this year, in which he spoke of:

'the constructive and vital relationship which has
sprung up between Chile and the European
Community during my government's first year. The
recent ratification of the Framework Cooperation
Agreement between the European Economic
Community and Chile shows that we now share the
same principles and the same optimism with regard to
the consolidation of our democracy and the challenges
it faces. It is also a sign of our growing friendship'.

With regard to the 'very tangible obstacles' to Chilean
exports also referred to in President Aylwin's speech, the
Commission would simply point out that:

— the European Community takes 37,3 % of Chile's total
exports and is by far the most important of Chile's
trading partners;

— from 1985 to 1990 there was an average annual
increase of 19,5% in Chile's exports to the
Community: the corresponding figure for Chilean
exports to the USA is only 11 %;

No C 315/44 Official Journal of the European Communities 5. 12. 91

— Chile's balance of trade with the Community showed
a surplus of $US 1,685 billion in 1990, while Chile's
overall of trade surplus was $US 1,3 billion.

It is clear, moreover, that a successful conclusion to the
Uruguay Round will, in general, facilitate trade flows
between the European Community and Latin America.
This is the objective being pursued by the Commission.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1798/91

by Mr Sergio Ribeiro (CG)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(1 September 1991)_

(91/C 315/86)

_Subject:_ Extension of bilateral textile agreements to
Indonesia and East Timor

The Commission has recently negotiated, within the
framework of GATT, a one-year extension to the
agreements concluded between the Community and the
main exporters of textiles to it. Indonesia is the principal
exporter of textiles to the Community, having increased
its exports by 50% in 1990. In view of UN Resolutions
Nos 384, 389 and 688 and other UN declarations,
together with the resolutions and declarations adopted by
the European Parliament on human rights violations and
the unlawful and illegitimate occupation of East Timor by
Indonesia, will the Commission take this and subsequent
opportunities offered by the negotiations to insist on
compliance by Indonesia with the above UN resolutions
and the declarations by the Community, in particular the
European Parliament, on East Timor?

Answer given by Mr Matutes
on behalf of the Commission

_(8 October 1991)_

In the Commission's view, the East Timor question
cannot be adequately dealt with in technical negotiations
for a one-year extension of the textile agreement with
Indonesia which it is in the Community's interest to
conclude.

The Commission will, nevertheless, do all it can to
impress upon the Indonesian authorities, whenever
possible, the need for compliance with the UN resolutions
to settle the East Timor question.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1887/91

by Mr Elio Di Rupo (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(1 September 1991)_

(91/C 315/87)

_Subject:_ Amendment of Regulation (EEC) No 123/85

Commission Regulation (EEC) No 123/85 (*) exempts
motor vehicle dealership agreements from the ban laid
down in Article 85 (1) of the EEC Treaty where they are
offset by advantages to the consumer (such as after-sales
service).

The next time that Regulation (EEC) No 123/85 is
amended, would the Commission consider incorporating
a specific provision to protect consumers who have
purchased a vehicle from a dealer who is part of a network
against the bankruptcy of a member of that network?

O OJNoLl5, 18. 1.1985,p. 16.

Answer given by Sir Leon Brittan
oq behalf of the Commission

_(24 September 1991)_

Regulation (EEC) No 123/85, like any other block
exemption based on Article 85 (3) of the EEC Treaty, may
be applied only if consumers are allowed a fair share of
the benefit resulting from the exempt agreements.

In particular, a manufacturer is obliged to make sure that
any consumer who has purchased a new vehicle through a
dealership is afforded, under identical conditions, the
same after-sales and guarantee service throughout the
Community. Consequently, if a member goes bankrupt,
his customers are not likely to suffer since they can obtain
the service in question from another dealer.

The Commission is not, at this stage, planning to
introduce any special provision in this connection.

5. 12. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities N o C 315/45

CORRIGENDA

Corrigendum to Written Question No 340/91 by Mr Jaak Vandemeulebrouke (ARC) to the Commission of the

European Communities

_(Official Journal of the European Communities No C 210 of12 August 1991)_

(91/C 315/88)

On page 25 in the answer given by Mrs Scrivener on behalf of the Commission, in the second paragraph:

_for:_ '. . . Article 5, paragraph 1 or paragraph 2 of Directive 77/388/EEC . . .',

_read:_ _'. . ._ Article 15, paragraph 1 or paragraph 2 of Directive 77/388/EEC . . .'.