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# Official Journal

## of the European Communities

#### English edition Information and Notices

ISSN 0378-6986

### C70

Volume 34

18 March 1991

```
Notice No

91/C70/01

91/C 70/02

91/C 70/03

91/C 70/04

91/C 70/05

91/C70/06

91/C70/07

91/C70/08

91/C70/09

91/C70/10

```

Contents Page

I _Information_

European Parliament

_Written Questions with_ _answer_

N o 1039/89 by M r Christopher Jackson to the Commission

Subject: Release of liability under customs guarantee (Supplementary answer) 1

N o 144/90 by M r H e m m o Muntingh to the Commission

Subject: Structural Funds 1

N o 252/90 by Mrs Jessica Larive to the Commission

Subject: European car stickers 2

N o 273/90 by Lord O'Hagan to the Commission

Subject: Use of animals in cosmetics 3

N o 333/90 by M r Mihail Papayannakis to the Commission

Subject: Threat to the environment (Supplementary answer) 3

N o 586/90 by M r Gerard Deprez to the Commission

Subject: Programmes in Sicily financed under the Structural Funds 4

N o 680/90 by M r Thomas Megahy to the Commission

Subject: The common fisheries policy 5

N o 712/90 by M r Yves Verwaerde to the Commission

Subject: Barbaric traditions 5

N o 724/90 by Mrs Winifred Ewing to the Commission

Subject: Seminars which the Commission proposes to hold in 1990 on the future of the common
fisheries policy 6

N o 725/90 by Mrs Winifred Ewing to the Commission

Subject: Participation in the seminars which the Commission proposes to hold in 1990 on the
future of the common fisheries policy 6

2 (Continued overleaf)

Notice N o Contents (continued)

Joint answer to Written Questions Nos 724/90 and 725/90 6

91 / C 70/11 N o 832/90 by Mrs Cristiana Muscardini to the Commission

Subject: Treatment of animals in zoos 7

91 / C 70/12 N o 951 /90 by M r Gerhard Schmid to the Commission

Subject: EC research into the bee disease varroatosis 7

91 / C 70/13 N o 1179/90 by M r Manfred Vohrer to the Commission

Subject: Infrastructural projects and environmental impact appraisals of such projects 8

91 / C 70/14 N o 1220/90 by Mr Arias Canete to the Commission

Subject: Multiannual guidance programme for aquaculture (1987 to 1991) for Belgium 9

9 1 / C 70/15 N o 1221/90 by Mr Arias Canete to the Commission

Subject: Multiannual guidance programme for aquaculture (1987 to 1991) for Germany 9

91/C 70/16 N o 1276/90 by M r Jesus Cabezon Alonso, M r Josep Pons Grau and Mrs Maria

Izquierdo Rojo to the Commission

Subject: Low utilization rates of Articles 550 and 552 of the 1988 budget 10

91 / C 70/17 N o 1289/90 by M r Kenneth Collins to the Commission

Subject: Tamper-proof of tamper-resistant odometers 10

91 / C 70/18 N o 1295/90 by M r Jose Happart to the Commission

Subject: Aid for ecological practices 11

9 1 / C 70/19 N o 1322/90 by Lord O'Hagan to the Commission

Subject: FRG's special lorry tax 12

91 / C 70/20 N o 1362/90 by M r Adrien Zeller to the Commission

Subject: Heavy goods vehicle tax in the Federal Republic of Germany 12

Joint answer to Written Questions Nos 1322/90 and 1362/90 12

91 / C 70/21 N o 1331 /90 by M r Ernest Glinne to the Commission

Subject: Cruelty to animals in certain Spanish towns and villages 12

91 / C 70/22 N o 1364/90 by M r William Newton Dunn to the Commission

Subject: Prohibited chemicals on fruit and vegetables 13

9 1 / C 70/23 N o 1410/90 by M r Victor Manuel Arbeloa Muru to the Commission

Subject: Co-financing programmes in Africa 13

9 1 / C 70/24 N o 1432/90 by M r Gerardo Fernandez-Albor to the Commission

Subject: Community control over the scrapping of fishing boats 13

9 1 / C 70/25 N o 1434/90 by M r Jean-Pierre Raffarin to the Commission

Subject: Bovine somatotropin 14

9 1 / C 70/26 N o 1453/90 by M r Elio di Rupo to the Commission

Subject: Community spending in the tobacco sector 14

9 1 / C 70/27 N o 1476/90 by M r Pol Marck to the Commission

Subject: Price of sugar beet in Belgium 15

Notice N o Contents (continued) Page

91 / C 70/28 N o 1506/90 by Mrs Raymonde Dury to the Commission

Subject: Belgian environmental protection projects 15

91 / C 70/29 N o 1508/90 by Mrs Raymonde Dury to the Commission

Subject: Application of Directive 88/378/EEC on the safety of toys 16

9 1 / C 70/30 N o 1521/90 by Sir James Scott-Hopkins to the Commission

Subject: Colourings in animal feed 16

9 1 / C 70/31 N o 1535/90 by M r Miguel Arias Canete to the Commission

Subject: Multiannual guidance programme for the fishing fleet (1987 to 1991) forwarded by
Spain pursuant to Regulation (EEC) No 4028/86 16

9 1 / C 70/32 N o 1543/90 by M r Eugenio Melandri to the Commission

Subject: Iraqi supergun and safety of nuclear weapons in Europe 17

9 1 / C 70/33 N o 1759/90 by M r Giacomo Porrazzini and M r Roberto Speciale to the Commission

Subject: Illegal traffic in arms with Iraq 17

Joint answer to Written Questions Nos 1543/90 and 1759/90 18

9 1 / C 70/34 N o 1565/90 by M r Jean-Pierre Raffarin to the Commission

Subject: Financing of the Erasmus programme 18

9 1 / C 70/35 N o 1636/90 by Mrs Dorothy Piermont to the Commission

Subject: Exclusion of New Zealand foodstuffs from the EC market in 1986 18

91/C 70/36 N o 1654/90 by Mrs Teresa Domingo Segarra to the Commission

Subject: Compatibility of sharecropping with the Community's rural development policy L9

91/C 70/37 N o 1656/90 by Mr AdrienZeller to the Commission

Subject: ECSC research assistance to iron and steel undertakings 20

9 1 / C 70/38 N o 1659/90 by M r Victor Arbeloa Muru to the Commission

Subject: An EEC Senate 20

9 1 / C 70/39 N o 1718/90 by M r Marc Galle to the Commission

Subject: Measures to protect European flora 21

9 1 / C 70/40 N o 1733/90 by M r Pierre Carniti and M r Luigi Vertemati to the Commission

Subject: Prevention of health risks from electromagnetic fields generated by electrodes 21

91 / C 70/41 N o 1749/90 by Mrs Mechtild Rothe to the Commission

Subject: Classification of animals as 'sensitive animals' instead of 'agricultural products' 22

9 1 / C 70/42 N o 1764/90 by M r Florus Wijsenbeek to the Commission

Subject: Cooperative in the rail transport sector 22

9 1 / C 70/43 N o 1793/90 by M r James Ford to the Commission

Subject: Threat to Erasmus and Comett funding 23

(Continued overleaf)

Notice N o Contents (continued)

9 1 / C 70/44 N o 1796/90 by Mrs Patricia Rawlings to the Commission

Subject: Rings of light for bicycle riders 23

91/C 70/45 N o 1798/90 by M r Lyndon Harrison to the Commission

Subject: East-West cultural cooperation 23

9 1 / C 70/46 N o 1800/90 by M r Mihail Papayannakis to the Commission

Subject: Extension of the airport on the Greek island of Chios 24

91/C 70/47 N o 1826/90 by M r Florus Wijsenbeek to the Commission

Subject: Confidentiality of information 25

91/C 70/48 N o 1864/90 by M r Hermann Verbeek to the Commission

Subject: EEC tennis tournament in Antwerp 25

91/C 70/49 N o 1865/90 by Mrs Carmen Diez de Rivera Icaza to the Commission

Subject: Application of the Erasmus scheme in the musical sector 26

9 1 / C 70/50 N o 1949/90 by M r Francois-Xavierde Donnea to the Commission

Subject: Notice of invitation to tender concerning the establishment of an Industrial Relations
Observatory 26

9 1 / C 70/51 N o 1962/90 by M r Gerard Monnier-Besombes, M r Gianfranco Amendola, M r Juan

Bandres-Molet, M r Virginio Bettini and Mrs Maria Santos to the Commission

Subject: EEC structural intervention and protection of the natural and biological heritage 27

9 1 / C 70/52 N o 2013/90 by Mr Mihail Papayannakis, M r John Iversen, Mrs Adriana Ceci, M r

Renzo Imbeni, M r Alonso Puerta and M r Cesare de Piccoli to the Commission

Subject: Community structural measures and the protection of the natural and biological
heritage 27

Joint answer to Written Questions Nos 1962/90 and 2013/90 28

91/C 70/53 N o 1974/90 by M r Alex Smith to the Commission

Subject: Market distortions in the European polyester films industry 29

9 1 / C 70/54 N o 1982/90 by M r H e m m o Muntingh to the Commission

Subject: Imports of dead wild birds into Spain 29

9 1 / C 70/55 N o 1988/90 by M r Dieter Rogalla to the Commission

Subject: Incorporation of Directive 85/203/EEC by the Federal Republic of Germany into its
legislation and its immediate implementation 30

9 1 / C 70/56 N o 2015/90 by Mrs Christine Crawley to the Commission

Subject: Discrimination against British forces wives living in Europe with their husbands 30

9 1 / C 70/57 N o 2016/90 by Mrs Christine Crawley to the Commission

Subject: Social security regulations as they affect service wives 31

91/C 70/58 N o 2018/90 by Mr Madron Seligman to the Commission

Subject: Profitable, pollution-free disposal of worn tyres 31

(Continued on page 46)

Notice N o

9 1 / C 7 0 / 5 9

91/C 70/60

91/C 70/61

9 1 / C 7 0 / 6 2

91/C 70/63

91/C 70/64

91/C 70/65

9 1 / C 7 0 / 6 6

91/C 70/67

9 1 / C 7 0 / 6 8

9 1 / C 7 0 / 6 9

91/C 70/70

9 1 / C 70/71

91/C 70/72

9 1 / C 7 0 / 7 3

91/C 70/74

91/C 70/75

9 1 / C 70/76

9 1 / C 70/77

Contents (continued) Page

N o 2103/90 by M r Mauro Chiabrando to the Commission

Subject: International agreements on trade in tanning products 32

N o 2174/90 by M r Rolf Linkohr to the Commission

Subject: SNCF high-speed rail link: infringement of EC directive on the protection of birds . . . 33

No 2186/90 by Sir James Scott-Hopkins to the Commission

Subject: Advertising of consumer products 33

N o 2194/90 by Mrs Mary Banotti to the Commission

Subject: Birds Directive 79/409/EEC 34

N o 2215/90 by M r Anthony Simpson to the Commission

Subject: Fire safety in vehicles 34

N o 2272/90 by Mr Gerardo Fernandez-Albor to the Commission

Subject: Oil pollution on the Costa del Sol (Spain) 34

N o 2276/90 by Mr Alonso Puerta to the Commission

Subject: 'Barranco da Loba' (La Coruna — Spain) 35

No 2302/90 by Mr Virginio Bettini to the Commission

Subject: Energy and the environment 35

N o 2311 /90 by Mr Karl von Wogau to the Commission

Subject: Standard telephone card system 36

N o 2326/90 by M r Yves Verwaerde to the Commission

Subject: Mauritius: fraud in connection with certificates EUR 1 36

N o 2343/90 by M r Peter Crampton to the Commission

Subject: Rehabilitation schemes for ex-prisoners 37

N o 2356/90 by Mrs Jessica Larive to the Commission

Subject: EC-US cooperation in biotechnological research 37

N o 2358/90 by M r Jean-Pierre Raffarin to the Commission

Subject: Classification of the bobwhite (Colinus virginianus ridgwayi) 38

N o 2360/90 by M r Jean-Pierre Raffarin to the Commission

Subject: Community Customs Code 38

N o 2372/90 by Mrs Caroline Jackson to the Commission

Subject: Regulation on substances that deplete the ozone layer 38

N o 2373/90 by Mrs Caroline Jackson to the Commission

Subject: Bathing water directive 39

N o 2376/90 by Mrs Sylvie Mayer to the Commission

Subject: Council Directive 79/409/EEC on the conservation of wild birds 40

N o 2390/90 by M r Jose Valverde Lopez to the Commission

Subject: Checks on medicinal products in the EC 40

N o 2393/90 by M r Alexander Langer, Mrs Birgit Cramon Daibler, M r Paul Staes,

Mrs Claudia Roth, M r Juan Bandres Molet, M r Eugenio Melandri and Mrs Hiltrud

Breyer to the Commission

Subject: 111 treatment of animals during religious fiestas in Spain 40

Notice N o Contents (continued)

9 1 / C 70/78 N o 2395/90 by Mrs Ursula Schleicher to the Commission

Subject: Protection of natural habitats in Portugal — endangered habitats in the Ria do Alvor 41

91/C 70/79 N o 2400/90 by M r Jean-Pierre Raffarin to the Commission

Subject: Rural tourism in Europe 41

9 1 / C 70/80 N o 2410/90 by M r Jesus Cabezon Alonso to the Commission

Subject: The destruction of the Montehano mountain in Cantabria (Spain) 42

9 1 / C 70/81 N o 2421/90 by Mrs Mireille Elmalan to the Commission

Subject: Reduction of VAT on technical aids for the blind and partially sighted 42

9 1 / C 70/82 N o 2430/90 by Mr Ernest Glinne to the Commission

Subject: The allocation to municipal budgets of parking fines 43

9 1 / C 70/83 N o 2450/90 by M r Gerard Monnier-Besombes to the Commission

Subject: Threats to the environment and public health in the South Pacific 43

9 1 / C 70/84 N o 2527/90 by M r Stephen Hughes to the Commission

Subject: Nuclear testing in French Polynesia 43

Joint answer to Written Questions Nos 2450/90 and 2527/90 43

9 1 / C 70/85 N o 2736/90 by M r Pol Marck to the Commission

Subject: Checks at a Spanish border post 44

9 1 / C 70/86 N o 2776/90 by M r Mihail Papayannakis to the Commission

Subject: Unsuitably located waste dump in the commune of Petra on the island of Lesbos 44

91/C 70/87 N o 2839/90 by Mrs Ursula Braun-Moser to the Commission

Subject: Distortions of competition resulting from aid granted by the French authorities with
the Commission's authorization 45

9 1 / C 70/88 N o 2892/90 by M r Carles-Alfred Gasoliba i Bohm to the Commission

Subject: New fibre factory in Longwy 45

Joint answer to Written Questions Nos 2839/90 and 2892/90 45

9 1 / C 70/89 N o 6/91 by Mrs Brigitte Ernst de la Graete to the Commission

Subject: Marketing of breast-milk substitutes 45

18. 3. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 70/1

###### I

_(Information)_

##### EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT

WRITTEN QUESTIONS WITH ANSWER

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1039/89

by Mr Christopher Jackson (ED)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(8 February 1990)_

(91/C 70/01)

_Subject:_ Release of liability under customs guarantee

Liability under guarantee for customs purposes is only
released when the travelling document, the SAD, is
discharged satisfactorily at the Customs Office of
destination and copy 5 of the document returned to the
originating Customs by way of proof.

A firm in my constituency has recently been penalized
under guarantee for West German taxes to the sum of
£ 7 860,71 due on four consignments that were, according
to the UK customs, discharged satisfactorily.

The reason that the firm in my constituency has been
penalized by the German authorities is that they were
unable to collect taxes in Germany because the agent
responsible in Germany went into liquidation.

Clearly it seems unfair that the agent in the UK who
discharged his responsibilities adequately should be
penalized because of the failure of an agent in Germany.

Is the situation described above justifiable in European
Community law? If it is, will the Commission consider
making changes in order to remove this apparent
inequity?

Copies of the relevant papers have been sent separately to
the Commission.

Supplementary answer given by Mrs Scrivener
on behalf of the Commission

_(24 October 1990)_

Further to its answer of 13 February ('), the Commission
would like to inform the Honourable Member that its

approaches to the relevant authorities of the Member
States concerned have revealed that the VAT on the four

consignments he referred to has been paid by the
consignee.

The measures to recover the money from the principal
and the guarantor have therefore beeen cancelled.

(') OJNoC303,3. 12. 1990, p. 9.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 144/90

by Mr Hemmo Muntingh (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(8 February 1990)_

(91/C 70/02)

_Subject:_ Structural Funds

Will the Commission list all those projects accepted for
funding in 1987 and 1988 under the Integrated
Mediterranean Programmes or the other Structural
Funds which have involved or envisage work within sites
listed in the Corine biotopes register or which might
significantly affect such sites?

Will the Commission list the sites concerned?

No C 70/2 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 3. 91

Answer given by Mr Christophersen
on behalf of the Commission

_(26 September 1990)_

The Corine biotopes data base describes and gives the
geographical location of 5 500 biotopes of importance for
the protection of nature in the Community.

However, the location of projects receiving assistance
from the Community structural Funds is listed only by
administrative unit (municipalities).

This means that it is at present impossible to run an
automatic cross-check on the two files to identify projects
which could have an impact on biotopes. To obtain this
information would require documentary research into the
precise location and nature of hundreds of projects which
received support from the structural Funds in 1987 and
1988. At present the Commission does not have the
resources to carry out this work.

It would in any case be impossible for the Commission to
consider systematic examination of all projects. The body
in charge of the project is responsible for assessing the
environmental impact and taking it into account,
following guidelines laid down in Directive 85/337/EEC
on the assessment of effects on the environment ( [1] ).
Nevertheless, it is the Commission's task to ensure
compliance with this obligation and, since the reform of
the structural Funds was implemented, it has had available
certain resources to monitor measures financed,
principally through partnership with national and
regional authorities and more specifically at the periodic
meetings of the monitoring committees. The Commission
would also draw the Honourable Member's attention to

the fact that major development projects financed by the
KIB are now evaluated from the point of view of biotopes
and areas under special protection. The Commission is
sending direct to the Honourable Member and to the
Secretariat of Parliament an example of this type of work.

(') OJNoL 175,5.7. 1985, p. 40.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 252/90

by Mrs Jessica Larive (LDR)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(19 February 1990)_

(91/C70/03)

_Subject:_ European car stickers

In view of the Commission's answer to Written Question
No 696/89 (') on European car stickers:

1. Will the Commission propose to the Council and the
European Parliament that the European Community
should sign the Vienna Convention Relating to Road
Traffic (UN, 1968)?

2. Will the Commission have the Convention, and in
particular Article 37 and Annex III thereof,
scrutinized to confirm that European citizens may
indicate their national and European citizenship by
placing these Eurostickers on their cars (national
symbol within the twelve stars of the European flag)?

(*)OJNoC93, 11.4. 1990, p. 28.

Answer given by Mr Dondelinger
on behalf of the Commission

_(13 November 1990)_

1. The Commission is taking an active part in the
revision and updating of the 1968 Vienna Conventions on
traffic and road safety signs and the supplementary
European Agreements of 1971 and 1973 ('). As part of this
revision the Commission, in collaboration with a group of
government experts, has begun looking into the
differences between Member States as regards regulations
on road safety signs. The upshot of these endeavours
should be a joint Community position on the
abovementioned international legal instruments. If the
Community is to become a contracting party to the said
Conventions (through a negotiating mandate given to the
Commission by the Council) it is necessary that such
Community participation be related to a specific field for
which it is competent, i.e. a field covered by Community
law. Given that there are only Community regulations
covering weights and dimensions and driving licences but
not road safety signs, it would be premature for the
Commission to embark upon action of this kind referred
to by the Honourable Member.

If Community regulations should one day emerge from
the Commission's work on road safety signs, it could then
consider the advisability of steps leading to the
Community becoming a contracting party to the
Conventions in question.

2. The Commission has no objection to stickers
showing the Member State where a vehicle is registered
and a European symbol. However, it should be pointed
out that the Commission has embarked, at Parliament's
request, on a study on the feasibility of introducing a
Community number plate. As things stand, it is planned
that such a number plate should include the Community
flag (gold stars on a blue background) and the symbol of
the Member State.

18. 3. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 70/3

If this project should come for fruition, the Commission
might propose that vehicles registered in the Community
be exempt from bearing the elliptical sticker for
intra-Community travel.

(') Instruments drawn up by the United Nations Economic
Commission for Europe in Geneva.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 273/90

by Lord O'Hagan (ED)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(19 February 1990)_

(91/C 70/04)

_Subject:_ Use of animals in cosmetics

Will the Commission agree to impose a ban on the use of
animals to improve or test cosmetic products?

Answer given by Mr Van Miert
on behalf of the Commission

_(28 May 1990)_

The Commission was responsible for the adoption of
Directive 86/609/EEC (') on the approximation of laws,
regulations and administrative provisions of the Member
States regarding the protection of animals used for
experimental and other scientific purposes.

The Commission also supports research projects to
develop alternative experimental methods.

As regards cosmetics, the Commission sees no way of
guaranteeing the safety of cosmetic products in the event
of a general ban on the use of animals in experiments,
particularly in areas where no alternative tests have been
devised.

In any event it must be stressed that tests on animals are
rarely necessary, and concern new substances only.

(') OJNoL358, 18. 12. 1986, p. 1.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 333/90

by Mr Mihail Papayannakis (GUE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(21 February 1990)_

(91/C 70/05)

_Subject:_ Threat to the environment

The Turkish Government is planning to construct a 700
MW power station in the Ali-Aga area 40 km from Nitilini
on the island of Lesbos. The power station will use
approximately 60 000 tonnes of seawater per day as a
coolant, which will then be discharged back into the sea
(in Candarli Bay) at a much higher temperature and
without any form of processing. Serious concern is being
expressed concerning the effect on the surrounding
waters which are a breeding ground for sardines. This
would cause great damage to both Turkish and Greek
fishermen (around the islands of Lesbos and Khios). On
28 January 1990 Greek and Turkish environmentalists
held a large demonstration. Given that in 1976 Turkey
signed the Barcelona Convention concerning specially
protected areas of the Mediterranean Sea and that it has
been in force there since 1981, can the Commission say:

— What progress has been made in the implementation
of the Protocol signed in Athens on 17 May 1980 for
the protection of the Mediterranean Sea against
pollution from land-based sources (Council Decision
82/191/EEC O of 28 February 1983)?

— Does it intend, in its capacity as an International
Energy Agency observer, to ask for more details and
guarantees from Turkey, whose energy policy, like
that of the other IAE member countries, is subject to
regular review in respect of its environmental impact,
so as to judge the validity of the fears expressed about
the effects of this project on the environment?

— What pressure does it intend to exert on the Turkish
Government to comply with the provisions of the
Barcelona Convention and prevent the realization of
this project, which would destroy all forms of life in
the surrounding waters?

(') OJ No L 67, 12. 3. 1983, p. 1.

Supplementary answer given by Mr Ripa di Meana
on behalf of the Commission

_(22 November 1990)_

Further to its answer of 12 October 1990 ('), the
Commission is now able to add the following details,
having contacted the Government of the Republic of
Turkey to obtain details on the construction of a power
station on the shores of the Aegean Sea.

No C 70/4 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 3. 91

In its reply, the Turkish Government assured the
Commission that all necessary measures would be taken
to comply with the 1988 Decree on the control of water
pollution. The Turkish authorities added that the station
would operate in accordance with the conditions laid
down in the Convention for the Protection of the

Mediterranean Sea against Pollution, signed on 16
February 1976 in Barcelona.

(*) OJNoC 328,31. 12. 1990, p. 10.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 586/90

by Mr Gerard Deprez (PPE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(16 March 1990)_

(91/C 70/06)

_Subject:_ Programmes in Sicily financed under the
Structural Funds

Can the Commission:

1. indicate the total amount granted under the Structural
Funds to finance programmes in Sicily in general, and
the province of Enna in particular, over the last five

years;

2. provide a description of the projects supported in the
province of Enna?

Answer given by Mr Millan
on behalf of the Commission

_(29 June 1990)_

European Regional Development Fund (ERDF)

1. Community finance in Sicily over the last five years
has included:

— an integrated Mediterranean programme (IMP) for
1988-92 totalling ECU 231 141 000, including ECU
107 829 000 in Community assistance broken down as
follows:

ERDF 43 965 000

Social Fund 5 340 000

EAGGF 19 115 000

Fisheries (Regulation (EEC) No 4028/85)

1 939 000

Article 551 37 470 000;

— two non-quota programmes for textiles for 1987-89
with a total investment of ECU 18 542 000, of which
the ERDF provided ECU 3 880 000;

— a non-quota programme for shipyards for 1988-91
totaling ECU 4 160 000, of which the ERDF
contributed ECU 2 155 000.

In addition, the Star programme (telecommunications)
for 1987-91 included a total investment of ECU 41

million in Sicily, of which the ERDF provides ECU 18,6
million. Over the same period investment in Sicily under
the Valoren programme (energy) totalled ECU 35,2
million, of which ECU 17,9 million came from the ERDF.

Part of the province of Enna is eligible under the IMPM
for Sicily; however, at this juncture it is not possible to
provide a breakdown of the assistance envisaged.

The only programme which specifically concerns the
province of Enna is the non-quota programme for
textiles, involving a total investment of ECU 2,1 million,
including ECU 350 000 from the ERDF.

2. During the same period, the ERDF has contributed
ECU 398,34 million to infrastructure projects in Sicily
and ECU 26,02 million to industrial projects.

The province of Enna has benefited from the financing of
71 infrastructure projects involving ECU 13,55 million in
ERDF assistance broken down as follows:

— 55 transport infrastructure projects (ECU 9,84
million);

— 12 water infrastructure projects (ECU 2,75 million);

— 2 environmental protection projects (ECU 720 000);

— 2 projects for socio-cultural infrastructures (ECU

240 000).

3. Under the reform of the structural Funds, on 31
October 1989 the Commission approved the Community
support framework (CSF) for the eight Italian regions
under Objective 1 for the period 1989-93.

In Sicily the priorities for transport, industry, craft firms
and services, tourism, infrastructures directly serving
productive activities and technical assistance with the
implementation of the CSF include contributions from
the ERDF totalling ECU 457,6 million. The priorities
include training measures attracting a Social Fund
contribution of ECU 218,3 million. The priority
concerning the exploitation of agricultural resources and
rural development includes a number of measures which
will receive part-finance from the EAGGF totalling ECU
83,2 million.

It is not yet possible to state whether any of these
measures will affect the province of Enna because

18. 3. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 70/5

the Commission has not yet officially received any of the
operational programmes.

European Social Fund (ESF)

The Commission has approved the following applications
from the region of Sicily for assistance from the European
Social Fund over the last five years:

1985: ECU 21 802 666

1986: ECU 26 096 905

1987: ECU 37 714 193

1988: ECU 51 128 575

1989.-ECU46 830 781.

Of these applications, only two, made in 1985 and
totalling ECU 189 591, concerned bodies located in the
province of Enna.

Other training measures supported by the Social Fund in
Sicily will undoubtedly have benefited residents of the
province of Enna but the Commission has no details of
the place of origin of trainees.

European Agricultural Guidance and Guarantee Section
(EAGGF)

1. The Guidance Section of the EAGGF has

reimbursed ECU 29 million of expenditure incurred by
the region of Sicily under Regulation (EEC) No 2511/69
laying down special measures for improving the
production and marketing of Community citrus fruits.

Implementation of this plan for citrus fruits affected the
province of Enna but no breakdown of reimbursements
by the EAGGF is available.

2. Between 1985 and 1989, 23 projects in the region of
Sicily received EAGGF assistance totalling ECU 18,4
million under Regulation (EEC) No 355/77 on improving
the conditions under which agricultural products are
processed and marketed.

Over the last five years, the EAGGF has provided aid
totalling ECU 1,98 million in the province of Enna for
four investment projects, three of which were for the
storage of cereals and one for the processing of fruit.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 680/90

by Mr Thomas Megahy (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(23 March 1990)_

(91/C 70/07)

_Subject:_ The common fisheries policy

In view of Commissioner Marin's statement that the

present method of allocation of catch share under the

common fisheries policy is 'open to question', what new
methods of allocation does the Commission intend to

consider or propose?

Answer given by Mr Marin
on behalf of the Commission

_(16 October 1990)_

The Honourable Member is probably referring to Mr
Marin's speech to the Fisheries Subcommittee on 21
February 1989.

On that occasion Mr Marin mentioned the report which
the Commission has to present before the end of 1991 on
the results of the common fisheries policy over the last 10
years. He said the aim was to study in depth the operation
of the common fisheries policy, the broad lines of the
policy, any changes which should be introduced and the
objectives to be achieved.

In view of Parliament's wish to be involved more closely
in the fisheries policy and the desirability of involving it in
the preparation of the report, the members of the
Fisheries Subcommittee have been invited to attend

discussion meetings, the first of which was held in
Brussels on 21 and 22 June, concerned the conservation
and management of fishery resources.

In this connection the Honourable Member is asked to

refer to the Commission's answer to Oral Question
H-418/90byMrLane( [1] ).

(') Debates of the European Parliament No 3-389 (April 1990).

WRITTEN QUESTION No 712/90

by Mr Yves Verwaerde (LDR)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(27 March 1990)_

(91/C 70/08)

_Subject:_ Barbaric traditions

In the Spanish village of Villanueva, 200 km from
Madrid, a barbaric tradition is repeated, every year — a
donkey is beaten to death by the villagers.

What immediate and decisive action does the Commission

intend to take to put an end to this cruel and barbaric
tradition which is unworthy of a civilized country such as
Spain?

No C 70/6 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 3. 91

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

_(26 April 1990)_

The Commission is very concerned about animal welfare
in the Community and, in the areas falling within its
sphere of competence (animal experiments, intensive
farming), it has already taken steps to ensure that animals
are protected.

The Commission fully shares the Honourable Member's
repulsion for any cruel and bloodthirsty treatment of
animals, whether it constitutes a popular tradition or not.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 724/90

by Mrs Winifred Ewing (ARC)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(27 March 1990)_

(91/C 70/09)

_Subject:_ Seminars which the Commission proposes to
hold in 1990 on the future of the common

fisheries policy

1. Will the Commission comment on how it intends to

organize and finance the seminars on the future of the
common fisheries policy which Vice-President Marin has
announced he intends to convene during 1990, giving
details of the topics proposed for consideration, the
budget line or lines under which the seminars will be
financed, the individuals, specialists and representatives
the Commission proposes to invite and the purpose of this
initiative?

2. Will the Commission state whether these seminars

will be open to all Members of the European Parliament
who express an interest in attending the same, or limited
to Members who happen to sit on the Fisheries
Subcommittee?

3. Will the Commission contribute towards the

travelling expenses of the MEPs and European
Parliament officials who express an interest in attending
these seminars?

WRITTEN QUESTION No 725/90

by Mrs Winifred Ewing (ARC)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(27 March 1990)_

(91/C 70/10)

_Subject:_ Participation in the seminars which the
Commission proposes to hold in 1990 on the
future of the common fisheries policy

Vice-President Marin has announced his intention to

convene a number of seminars during 1990 on the future
of the common fisheries policy.

1. Will the Commission state whether representatives of
the fishing industry will be invited to participate in
these seminars and, if so, will the Commission publish
a list of the fishing industry organizations it proposes
to invite?

2. Does the Commission propose to invite Members of
the Council of Fisheries Ministers or their delegates to
attend and participate in these seminars, and if not,
why not?

Joint answer to Written Questions Nos 724/90 and 725/90

given by Mr Marin
on behalf of the Commission

_(7 August 1990)_

The discussion seminars concerned will be as follows:

First seminar (21-22 June in Brussels)

(a) the conservation and management of fish stocks

(b) control

(c) the protection of the marine environment

(d) the Mediterranean

Second seminar (in Arcachon, on a date to be agreed with
the Subcommittee on Fisheries during November). The
date of this second seminar has had to be changed because
of Parliament's decision to hold two plenary part-sessions
in October 1990.

(a) structure policy

(b) artisanal fishing

(c) aquaculture

Third seminar (early 1991, venue to be decided)

International issues

(a) fisheries agreements with third countries

(b) fisheries and GATT: trade

The Commission will finance the physical organization of
the seminars (meeting rooms, interpreters), from the
appropriations available for the organization of meetings
(item 2 500). Parliament will be responsible for its
members expenditure in accordance with the usual
procedures for this type of meeting.

The seminars will be open to Members of Parliament and
members and substitutes of the Subcommittee on

Fisheries.

The Commission will, of course, take part in the seminars.

Staff of the European Parliament political groups
working for the Subcommittee on Fisheries and, for the

18. 3. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 70/7

first seminar, representatives of the four main scientific
institutes have also been invited to enable them to take

part in the discussion on conservation.

All these decisions were taken in consultation with

Parliament through the chairman of the Subcommittee on
Fisheries.

Despite the decisions taken by Parliament itself on the
participation of its Members in the seminars (strictly
reserved for members of the Subcommittee), the
Honourable Member asked to be invited and his request
was granted.

As the Commission said in its reply to oral question
No H-417/90 (') submitted by Mr Lane during question
time in the April part-session, the aim of the seminars is a
joint discussion on the principal questions raised by the
common fisheries policy, its results and future, and the
initiation of an open dialogue between the Subcommittee
on Fisheries and the Commission.

The Commission is convinced that this will help in the
preparation of the report it is to present to the Council
before the end of 1991 under Regulation (EEC)
No 170/83 of 25 January 1983 ( [2] ).

(') Debate of the European Parliament No 3-389 (April 1990).
O OJNoL24, 27. 1. 1983.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 832/90

by Mrs Cristiana Muscardini (NI)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(4_ _April 1990)_

(91/C70/11)

_Subject:_ Treatment of animals in zoos

Why has no directive yet been issued concerning
supervision of living conditions of animals in zoos in the
Member States, since a report has shown that there are
not only enormous differences in the conditions under
which animals are kept and reared but also a serious lack
of national laws to guarantee humane conditions for
animals in captivity?

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

_(28 May 1990)_

A proposal for a directive on the protection of animals in
zoos was announced in the Commission's 1989 work

programme. The technical work on this proposal is now
complete, but it still needs to be finalised at service level
for adoption by the Commission.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 951/90

by Mr Gerhard Schmid (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(17 April 1990)_

(91/C 70/12)

_Subject:_ EC research into the bee disease varroatosis

In the past the Community has financed research projects
to eradicate varroatosis as part of expenditure for
agricultural structures. Can the Commission say which
bodies have received what amounts, what results they
have achieved and how beekeepers in the European
Community are kept informed of the results of this
research?

Answer given by Mr Mac Sharry
on behalf of the Commission

_(4 July 1990)_

Within the framework of Council Regulation (EEC)
No 1196/81 ('), which provided for an aid to beekeepers
payable on a per hive basis, for a period of three
marketing years, appropriations were also made for the
financing of scientific studies. Between 1983 and 1,985
twelve University or public sector institutes, in seven
Member States including the Federal Republic of
Germany, carried out projects involving a total
Community expenditure of just over ECU 260 000.

The Institutes concerned in the Federal Republic of
Germany were the Baden-Wiirttemberg Veterinary
Institute (Tierhygienisches Institut), Freiburg-i.-B, and
the Institute for Beekeeping of the Goethe University of
Frankfurt-am-Main.

In the meantime, the Community had launched the
five-year-programme for coordination of agricultural
research 1984-1988. As a corollary of the integrated plant
protection programme the Commission coordinated the
work of a similar number of institutes on projects
connected with Varroasis, and the results were published
in three separate volumes under Commission auspices in
1983, 1988 and 1989. The total expenditure within the
five-year programme on projects specifically concerning
Varroasis amounted to about ECU 300 000.

^oCBOB^ official journal of the European Communities 1^ 3 ^1

Researchers currently have the opportunity to suhmit
proposals for financing under the l ^ ^ r ^ ^ programme
for research and technological development in the field of
competitiveness of agriculture and management of
agricultural resources

Purthermore^ five specialised investigations are currently
being financed^ to the tune of ECUiOO 000 into aspects
ofVarroa control methodologywhich are of particularly
direct interest to operators in the field These tnalsm^ be
completed early in P ^ P involve joint work between
institutes in Belgium^thePederal Republic of (German^^
Pranced (Greece^ Itah^ the Netherlands and the United
kingdom The necessary financing has been appropriated
outof t h e a i d t o Varroacontrol r^totalECU 1 millions

provided in the t ^ ^ budget sheading ^ 0 ^

The emphasis in choosing projects for Community
financing under the three distinct headings described
above^submissions are still awaited under t h e t ^ t ^

programmed has been applied as opposed to basic
research A number of different avenues have been

followed^ involving not only the search for new or
improved products and physical control methods against
the Varroa mite^ but also the avoidance of residues in

hone^ and other concomitant effects of chemical

treatment

It has to be stated in reply to the final part of the
Idonourable^iembePsenquiry that up to now no single
totally effective method of control has been identified
The effectivenessof treatments andthereductionof its

undesirable side^effects^ are in many cases conditioned b^
climatic or other environmental conditions^ and by
varying beekeeping practices as between the different
regions of the Commurnty

This background is reflected in the way scientific
investigation has been structured of late^ involving a
greater degree of comparative methodology and
cooperation between different member ^tatesmnstitutes
Rart of the task of coordination of the work of

beekeepers^ organisations against Varroa^ supported bv
the Community aid for this purpose since t^D^ and
carried out by Commission services in close collaboration
bothwith aid beneficiaries andwith scientific e^perts^ has
beento ensure the dissemination ofoperationally usable
research results and advice ofcontrol methods wherever

this has been appropriate This effort continues to be part
of the follo^Dup to the t ^ Parliament report and
resolution on the encouragement of beekeeping The
Commission is fully conscious of the gravity and
wide^reaching implications of theVarroa problems and is
makingevery effort to see thatCommunity beekeepers
are made aware of the danger and effects ofVarroa^ and
of the most effective control means available to date^

togetherwith the correct mannerof applying them

^ O t ^ L U U 4 ^ t ^ t D t

^ ^ T T E ^ ^ U E ^ T ^ ^ ^ o t t ^ B ^ O

hy^r^^redVohrer^LfOR^

to the C^omr^issior^ of the European C^ommunities

^iBCBOBP^

^ ^ c ^ Infrastructural projects and environmental
impact appraisals of such projects

Ifthe recent article in the magazine ^ r ^ ^ ^ O ^ ^ ^
is accuratemhe EC is promoting infrastructural projects in
^pain and Portugal without taking any account of the
resulting environmental problems ^ h a t steps have since
been taken to ensure that infrastructural projects
promoted with EC resources are subject to an
environmental impact appraisals and that such
investigations are accessible to concerned citizens and
environmental organisations^

Answer^ivenhy^r^^an
onhehatfoftheC^omm^sion

measures which are part^fmanced from Community
Punds must comply with Community legislation and
policies^ including those on the protection of the
environment Accordingly^ when so required under
Commission legislations environmental impact
assessments for infrastructure projects receiving financial
assistance from the ERMpform part of the information to
be supplied by the member states when submitting
apphcationsforpartfinancing

It is primarily the responsibility of the member states to
see that the measures are compatible with environmental
policy and it is they which must provide the Commission
with any e^tra information it requires to check
compliance

Individual citizens should find it easier to secure

information following the recent adoption by the Council
of the POirective on the freedom of access to information

on the environment

The following points should be noted with regard to the
C^bject^etregionsof^pain

^ The C^P includes two development subDpnonties
directly related to the environment

^ protection and improvement of the environment
^ s u b p n o n t y ^ ^

^ protectionof the environment andconservation
of natural resources^sub^prionty^^

This representsasubstantial change of emphasism
assistancefromthePunds^particularly theERPOP^

18. 3. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 70/9

since in the years preceding the reform there was no
heading so specifically concerned with the
environment.

(b) The CSF includes investments totalling ECU 958,8
million (including ECU 575 million in assistance
from the ERDF) specifically for the protection and
improvement of the environment. This means that of
the ECU 6 199 000 in ERDF grants in the CSF, 9,3 %
is earmarked for assistance directly related to the
environment. It should also be noted that the

Objective 1 regions of Spain are eligible under the
Community Envireg initiative.

The Community support framework for the
Objective 1 regions of Portugal has no specific
priority covering environmental matters. However,
while the CSF was being negotiated, it was agreed
with the Portuguese authorities that such matters
would be taken into account when deciding on

measures.

Accordingly, several operational programmes,
mainly at regional level, will include a substantial
number of measures to protect the environment (e.g.
the operational programme for the Vale do Ave). The
regions of Portugal are also eligible under the
Envireg initiative.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1220/90

by Mr Arias Canete (PPE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(22 May 1990)_

(91/C 70/14)

water species reared in heated water and in recirculation
units. The programme proposes a modest expansion of
aquaculture, mainly in freshwater, and the modernization
and rationalization of existing units to increase
profitability. The other main objectives of the programme
are the development of the cultivation of species for
which there is a shortfall of European production (for
example eel), the market promotion of new species (for
example tilapia and catfish) and of species which are
currently in surplus in the Community (for example carp
and trout) and the production of species for restocking
natural fresh waters (this activity is not eligible for aid
under Regulation (EEC) No 4028/86). In Belgium there
is particular interest in using the cooling water from
power stations and industrial plants for the culture of
fresh water fish species, some of tropical origin.

The forecast total investment in aquaculture for this
period is ECU 6 million, with national aid of ECU 1,5
million included. Total expenditure by species is:

— eel: ECU 3,6 million

— trout: ECU 0,7 million

— carp and cyprinids: ECU 0,7 million

— other: ECU 1,0 million.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1221/90

by Mr Arias Canete (PPE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(22 May 1990)_

(91/C 70/15)

_Subject:_ Multiannual guidance programme
aquaculture (1987 to 1991) for Belgium

_Subject:_ Multiannual guidance programme
aquaculture (1987 to 1991) for Germany

for

for

Having regard to Commission Decision 88/2/EEC (') of
11 December 1987 on the multiannual guidance
programme for aquaculture (1987 to 1991) submitted by
Belgium pursuant to Council Regulation (EEC)
No 4028/86 _(_ _[2]_ _),_ can the Commission give details of the
programme's specific objectives, in order of priority, and
the investment provided for in the programme?

(') OJNoL4, 7. 1. 1988, p. 19.
O OJNoL376, 31. 12. 1986, p. 7.

Answer given by Mr Marin
on behalf of the Commission

_(17 July 1990)_

At the start of the 1987 to 1991 period aquaculture was a
small sector of the Belgium economy with an annual
production of 650 tonnes of trout, 850 tonnes of carp and
other cyprinids and less than 100 tonnes of other fresh

Having regard to Commission Decision 88/3/EEC ( [l] ) of
11 December 1987 on the multiannual guidance
programme for aquaculture (1987 to 1991) submitted by
Germany pursuant to Council Regulation (EEC)
No 4028/86 ( [2] ), can the Commission give details of the
programme's specific objectives, in order of priority, and
the investment provided for in the programme?

(') OJNoL4,7. 1. 1988, p. 20.
O OJ No L 376, 31. 12. 1986, p. 7.

Answer given by Mr Marin
on behalf of the Commission

_(13 July 1990)_

The programme objectives are focused on aquaculture in
fresh water although some limited development in the sea

No C 70/10 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 3. 91

is proposed. At the start of the period production was
confined to trout (14 000 tonnes) and carp (6 000 tonnes)
with a few pilot or experimental projects concerned with
the culture of oysters, sea trout and turbot in the Baltic
Sea.

The programme does not envisage a substantial increase
in the number of aquaculture units but aims to improve
hygiene and quality, reduce losses through disease,
improve marketing and rationalize production methods in
order to increase the economic viability of existing units.
Measures designed to protect the environment by
cleaning fish farm effluents are also proposed. The
programme forecasts the establishment and extension of
fish hatcheries mainly for rearing fresh water species
other than trout and carp in order to restock natural
waters. These latter projects are not eligible under
Regulation (EEC) No 4028/86 which is restricted to
culture for direct human consumption.

The total investment in aquaculture forecast for the
period is ECU 29 million of which ECU 2,9 million would
be national grant aid. The total investment will be
distributed in three major categories:

— pond aquaculture: ECU 4,4 million

— intensive units: ECU 19,3 million

— hatcheries nurseries: ECU 5,3 million.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1276/90

by Mr Jesus Cabezon Alonso, Mr Josep Pons Grau and
Mrs Maria Izquierdo Rojo (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(22 May 1990)_

(91/C 70/16)

_Subject:_ Low utilization rates of Articles 550 and 552 of
the 1988 budget

Why were the appropriations provided for under
Articles 550 (Mediterranean programmes — Preparation
of integrated programmes) and 552 (Integrated
Mediterranean programmes — Technical assistance) of
the 1988 budget not fully utilized?

Answer given by Mr Millan
on behalf of the Commission

_(25 July 1990)_

In 1988 Article 550 contained only payment
appropriations to cover commitments for actions in
preparation for the integrated Mediterranean

programmes.

In each case, payment of the amounts due is dependent on
receipt of a statement of expenditure and the final
implementation report.

Payments could not be made at the level expected because
national authorities either provided the information late
or failed to provide it at all.

Article 552 was created in 1987 to enable the Commission

to provide the technical assistance required for
implementation of the IMPs. The national and/or
regional authorities made little use of this Article in 1988
since in Italy (which accounted for 15 of the 29 IMPs)
1988 was a year in which examination of projects was
completed, a process requiring little technical assistance,
while most of the regions of France and Greece found
their own solutions.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1289/90

by Mr Kenneth Collins (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(22_ _May 1990)_

(91/C70/17)

_Subject:_ Tamper-proof of tamper-resistant odometers

Will the Commission say what progress has been made in
the investigations announced by Lord Cockfield in his
answer to Written Question No 2492/87 (') ?

0) OJ No C 244, 19. 9. 1988, p. 39.

Answer given by Mr Bangemann
on behalf of the Commission

_(11 September 1990)_

As the Commission announced in its answer to Written

Question No 2492/87 by the Honourable Member, it has
been pursuing its examination of the inviolability of
odometers.

Its findings have shown that the expense involved in
seeking inviolability would be disproportionate compared
with the cost of carrying out technical modifications.

The idea of inviolability has been examined from two
angles: (i) the counter should not totalize when the
control system is reversed; (ii) it should be protected from
any tampering intended to produce a reading lower than
the number of kilometers actually covered.

t ^ . ^ l Official Journal of the European Communities ^oCBOBM

rio^ever,any technical solution liable to meet these t^o
requirements ^vouldmeanadisproportionate increase in
costs and the need to design ne^v counters, ^vhich^ould
bedifficultto integrate into the dashboardsof todays
vehicles.

studies in the United states have produced similar
findings, and the American authorities have for this
reason opted for administrative solutions. The
Commission too ^vould prefer to explore an
administrative avenue and come up ^vith appropriate

measures.

^ R l T T E ^ ^ U E ^ T ^ ^ ^ o t ^ ^ ^ B ^ u

bylvtr]oser^app^rt^

to the C^ornmission of the European C^o^r^u^iue^

^tBC^OBl^

^ ^ c r . Aid for ecological practices

In vie^v of the publicity ^vhich has been given to the
matter, the sum allocated to the improvement of
environmental conditions and ecological practices in
agriculture appears unlikely to constitute an incentive.

The ERG has been penalized for granting a rate of
assistance in excess ofthe fixed amount.

Are member states not permitted to exercise flexibility in
the matter^Are they authorized to complement EEG aid
^vith national measures^

^ h o decides on the type of investment proiect to be
supported^

^ h a t is the amount of aid allocated to Belgium, and
specificallyto^alloniaB

Answer ^ven by Ivir^vi^c gharry
on behalf of the C^ommiss^on

The protection and improvement of the environment are
an important component of the common agricultural
policy. In practical terms, there are a number of
opportunities in this contextforEA(G(GE assistance.

In the case of investment aid, the member states may
grant aidtofarmers^vhoinvestinordertoprotect and
improve the environment, for example for storage of
agricultural ^vaste. The Commission, pursuant to
Regulation ^ E E ^ ^ o ^ ^ B ^ C ^ ^ 1 1 ^^rnme whether

such aid is in compliance ^ith the community legislation
as Bellas the possibility of Community cofinancing.

Lender the Community investment aid arrangements
specified in this Regulation, the value of the aid granted
by the ^iember^tate, expressed as apercentageof the
amountof theinvestment, maybe ^ ^ for immovable
property and ^O^o forothertypesof investments these
rates of aid may be increased byrOpcDints in lessfavoured
areas.Belgium is reimbursed by the EAGGE^^^oof the
total amount of the investment aid ^vhich it has granted.
The figures sho^ that the EAGGE has reimbursed
Belgium, in respect of all aid for investment in agricultural
holdings, since the beginning of the scheme in l^Bu^and
u p t o ^ l M e c e m b e r t ^, a t o t a l o f t h e o r d e r o f E C U ^ O
million, figures specifically relating to investment in
environmental protection and in ^allonia are not
available.

In the case of investments involving environmental
protection, the member ^tate may grant national aid,
^here appropriate in additiontoCommunityaid,under
the conditions laid do^n in Article^of Regulation ^EEG^
^ o ^ ^ B ^ The Commission may request a member
^tate to bring certain rates of aid into line ^vith
community measures^ within thelimits and restrictions
^hich apply in respect of such measures, the ^tate or the
aid recipients determine the type of investments ^vhich
may receive support.

^ i t h r e g a r d t o aid for agriculturalpractices compatible
^ith the requirements of environmental protection
CArticlel^ofRegulation^EEC^o^^B^,the member
^tate determines, taking account of the losses of earnings
resulting fromtheconditions stipulated, theamountof
the annual premium per hectare paid to volunteer farmers
within the areas designated as sensitive.

The rate of Community cofinancing is asageneral rule set
a t ^ ^ o ^ O ^ t O D ^ ^ f o r regions covered by C^biectivelof
Regulation ^ E E C ^ o ^ O ^ B ^ ^ ^ i t h i n the limit o f a
maximum eligible amountofECUl^O per hectare.

The member states remain totally free,ho^vever,topaya
premium inexcessof thiseligibleceiling, on condition
that it is iustified by the nature of the commitment entered
into by the farmer and complies ^ i t h A r t i c l e s ^ a n d ^ o f
the EEC Treaty ^ith regard to national aid. several
member states have made use of this possibility federal
Republic of (Germany,l^etherlands,United Kingdoms

^ i t h regard to Belgium, and more specifically ^allonia,
noproiectfalling^vithin thetermsof the legislation in
question has yet been received by the Commission. The
competent authorities did, however, at the beginning of
theyear announce an examination of thepossibility in
question.

^eo^DL^,^o^m^^,Dm
rmeed^DLt^m^o^,D^

No C 70/12 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 3. 91

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1322/90

byLordO'Hagan(ED)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(28 May 1990)_

(91/C 70/19)

_Subject:_ FRG's special lorry tax

The Commission will have heard that the Federal

Republic intends to apply a special lorry tax on heavy
goods vehicles from 1 May 1990.

1. Would such a tax be in conformity with Articles 76
and 95 of the Treaty of Rome?

2. Would not such a tax oppose the principle and practice
of competition policy within the Community?

3. What action does the Commission now propose to
take against the Federal Republic?

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1362/90

by Mr Adrien Zeller (PPE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(11 June 1990)_

(91/C 70/20)

_Subject:_ Heavy goods vehicle tax in the Federal Republic
of Germany

On 1 July 1990 the Federal Republic of Germany will be
introducing an annual heavy goods vehicle tax to be paid
by all haulier, regardless of nationality, crossing its
territory.

The tax — ranging from DM 1 000 to DM 9 000,
depending on vehicle size — introduces an element of
disparity between German hauliers and their counterparts
from elsewhere in the Community in the former will be
able to set off the tax in full against axle tax.

What action does the Commission propose to take to
eliminate this disparity?

Joint answer to Written Questions

Nos 1322/90 and 1362/90

given by Mr Van Miert
on behalf of the Commission

_(24 September 1990)_

The Commission is of the opinion that the German lorry
tax is incompatible with the provisions of Article 76 of the
EEC Treaty because it discriminates against non-German
hauliers.

Whilst increased transportation costs will make exports of
goods to the Federal Republic of Germany more
expensive, it can be expected that the competitive position
of non-German products imported into the Federal

Republic will deteriorate as a consequence of the German
lorry tax. This might go against Article 95 of the Treaty.

Since the tax will be applicable to German as well as
non-German vehicles of more than 18 tonnes maximum

permissible gross laden weight, the lorry tax alone does
not change the relative competitive situation of the
hauliers. It is the combination of the new lorry tax and the
simultaneous decrease in national vehicle taxes for

German hauliers which will have a detrimental effect on

the situation of non-German hauliers who do not have the

advantage of such a reduction.

The Commission has already initiated proceedings
according to Article 169 of the EEC Treaty.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1331/90

by Mr Ernest Glinne (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(11_ _June 1990)_

(91/C 70/21)

_Subject:_ Cruelty to animals in certain Spanish towns and
villages

In accordance with an ancient custom, Spanish towns and
villages allow various forms of cruelty to be inflicted on
animals. In Coria, Caceres, for example, bulls are
wounded, blinded and mutilated. At Villa Nueva, the
oldest donkey in the village is killed after being led
through narrow streets where it is beaten and mistreated.

However, the Mayor of Tossa de Mare, Costa Brava, has
described bullfighting as 'a national disgrace' and banned
bullfights and other cruel sports in his municipality.

The example of this courageous mayor should be
followed and a ban imposed by all the authorities
concerned, given the deterrent effect it might have on
popular customs which are shocking both to animal
welfare campaigners and in general ethical terms.

What is the Commission's current attitude on this matter?

Answer given by Mr Bangemann
on behalf of the Commission

_(15_ _June 1990)_

The Commission would refer the Honourable Member to
its answer to Written Question No 712/90 by Mr
Verwaerde (').

(') See page 5 of this Official Journal.

18. 3. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 70/13

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1364/90

by Mr William Newton Dunn (ED)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(11_ _June 1990)_

(91/C 70/22)

_Subject:_ Prohibited chemicals on fruit and vegetables

Is the Commission satisfied that the list of prohibited
chemicals on fruit and vegetables is applied equally
throughout the Community, and what plans has the
Commission to persuade the newly democratic Central
and Eastern European countries to introduce the same
limitations?

Answer given by Mr Mac Sharry
on behalf of the Commission

_(3 October 1990)_

Council Directive 79/117/EEC (') prohibits the
marketing and use within the Community of plant
protection products containing certain active substances.
The Commission follows attentively the application by
Member States of the provisions of this Directive within
the framework of the specific procedures introduced by
the Commission to monitor the application of
Community directives. All Member States have notified
their implementing measures to transpose the provisions
of Directive 79/117/EEC into national law.

The Trade and Cooperation Agreements recently
concluded with most countries of Eastern and Central

Europe contain provisions for consultation on
environmental matters which also includes public health.
Until now no occasion has arisen to necessitate

consultation on this particular subject.

O OJNoL33,8.2. 1979, p. 36.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1410/90

by Mr Victor Manuel Arbeloa Muru (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(13 June 1990)_

(91/C 70/23)

_Subject:_ Co-financing programmes in Africa

What is the Commission's opinion of the resolution
adopted at the 'Euro-African Encounters of
Decentralized Firms' (Dakar), in which the European
institutions are called upon to organize 'new programmes
permitting the co-financing of joint actions managed by
decentralized African and European firms' and to set up a
multi-regional fund for development in Africa?

Answer given by Mr Marin
on behalf of the Commission

_(13 November 1990)_

The Dakar resolution corresponds with the new
guidelines for decentralized cooperation contained in
Lpme IV, as the text of the resolution itself mentions.
This form of cooperation is aimed at not only the
decentralized public authorities but also a wide range of
private development bodies (see Article 20 of Lome IV).

The Commission is very keen for numerous ACP
initiatives to emerge on the basis of these guidelines,
where appropriate in close cooperation with European
decentralized counterparts. It intends to encourage this
and to provide all possible support under the EDF.

According to the Dakar resolution, the multi-regional
fund referred to in the question would contain
contributions from the regions of Europe. Community
financial support for decentralized cooperation under
Lome IV will come from EDF resources.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1432/90

by Mr Gerardo Fernandez-Albor (PPE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(13_ _June 1990)_

(91/C 70/24)

_Subject:_ Community control over the scrapping of fishing
boats

Community legislation regarding the renewal of the
fishing fleet specifically states that an old vessel must be
scrapped before a new vessel is brought into operation.

Although it may seem easy to achieve what is laid down in
Community rules on the subject there are persistent
suspicions that this is not always the case and while some
boat-owners comply with the Community regulations
others do not appear to do so.

In view of this situation, does the Commission consider
that it may establish stricter Community controls over the
scrap-and-build scheme so as to ensure compliance with
Community rules and prevent the kind of irregularities
which are allegedly taking place?

Answer given by Mr Marin
on behalf of the Commission

_(17 July 1990)_

Vessel construction projects submitted to the Commission
for consideration of Community financial aid are

No C 70/14 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 3. 91

examined within the framework of Regulation (EEC)
No 4028/86 of 18 December 1986 O and having
particular regard to the targets on fleet capacity reduction
laid down in the multiannual guidance programmes
adopted by the Commission for the period 1987 to
1991 ( [2] ).

In accordance with Annex B2 of Regulation (EEC)
No 970/87 of 26 March 1987 ( [J] ), applicants may
undertake to withdraw from fishing activity a vessel
whose essential particulars are provided in the
application.

Withdrawal from fishing activity may be effected by
breaking up, sale outside the EEC or use for purposes
other than fishing.

Before any aid granted can be paid in full, withdrawal
must be confirmed by an official document issued by the
competent authority of the Member State attesting that
the vessel in question has been removed from the register
of fishing vessels and certifying that the vessel has been
permanently based from fishing in Community waters.

Furthermore, in accordance with Article 2 of the
multiannual guidance programmes of 11 December 1987,
Member States submit to the Commission information on

entry and exit of vessels from the fleet at intervals of six
months.

Member States have also submitted information in

accordance with Regulation (EEC) No 163/89 of 24
January 1989 ( [4] ) for the purpose of establishing a
Community Register of fishing vessels and this
information is updated regularly.

The Commission will monitor and review progress made
by Member States in achieving the targets on fleet
capacity reduction through these measures.

(') OJNoL376,31. 12. 1986, p. 7.
O OJN0L66, 14. 3. 1990, p. 30.
O OJNoL96,9.4. 1987, p. 2.
O OJNoL20,25. 1. 1989, p. 5.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1434/90

by Mr Jean-Pierre Raffarin (LDR)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(13_ _June 1990)_

(91/C 70/25)

_Subject:_ Bovine somatotropin

The Commission intends to ban the use of bovine

somatotropin (BST) mainly because this product
increases milk yields.

In doing so, does the Commission not fear that, by
ignoring the criteria of innocuousness and effectiveness, it
may slow down research in a field which is so important
for the future of stock-farming and European industry?

Answer given by Mr Mac Sharry
on behalf of the Commission

_(30 July 1990)_

Following a proposal by the Commission the Council
adopted its Decision of 25 April 1990 concerning the
administration of Bovine Somatotropin (').

This Decision was proposed in order to ensure that a
necessary period be provided for in-depth studies into the
various effects of Bovine Somatotropin which are not yet
sufficiently understood, and to ensure a common
approach in Community Member States. Criteria
mentioned by the Honourable Member will be taken into

account.

The decision does not prohibit research, Article 2 of the
Decision enables scientific and technical trials to be

carried out, subject to strictly controlled conditions.

O OJNoL 116,8.5. 1990, p. 27.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1453/90

by Mr Elio di Rupo (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(13 June 1990)_

(91/C 70/26)

_Subject:_ Community spending in the tobacco sector

Would the Commission please state:

1. the exact amount spent under the common
agricultural policy in 1989 on the tobacco sector
(premiums, Community intervention, etc) by country
and by tobacco variety?

2. the final figures for Italian production of Badischer
Geudertheimer tobacco in 1989, given that the EC
provisional estimates referred to a figure of 70 000
tonnes?

Answer given by Mr Mac Sharry
on behalf of the Commission

_(27 July 1990)_

1. The Honourable Member is referred to the table

below which sets out Community expenditure in 1989 in
the tobacco sector, broken down for each Member State
between refunds, premiums and intervention. The
Commission has no breakdown of data by variety as
declarations are made by the Member States on the basis
of the type of measure or scheme according to the
relevant budget heading.

18. 3. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 70/15

Expenditure in the tobacco sector — 1989 financial year

_(ECU million)_

The so-called C beet and the resulting C sugar are
produced totally at the risk of the producers who establish
the terms of purchase through inter-trade agreements.

The practice described by the Honourable Member
appears to be totally compatible with the present rules on

sugar quotas.

The production of sugar in excess of the A and B quotas
by beet-growers depends on the profitability of
alternative crops and world sugar prices, since this sugar
cannot be sold on the Community's internal market.

Given the favourable conditions on the world sugar
market during the 1989/90 marketing year, the stability
of Community sugar production does not appear to have
been affected by any significant increases in areas under
beet. In particular, the area planted with sugar beet in
Belgium only increased by 1 %.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1506/90

by Mrs Raymonde Dury (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(21 June 1990)_

(91/C 70/28)

_Subject:_ Belgian environmental protection projects

Council Regulation (EEC) No 1760/87 (') states that aid
may be granted to areas which are particularly sensitive
from the point of view of the environment, natural
resources or maintenance of the landscape and the
countryside.

Has Belgium submitted any projects in this context? If so,
what were they and what Community aid was either
granted or refused?

(') OJNoL 167,26.6. 1987, p. 1.

Answer given by Mr Mac Sharry
on behalf of the Commission

_(30 July 1990)_

The Commission has not been informed by Belgium, to
date, of any scheme which would qualify for aid for areas
sensitive in terms of environmental and natural resource

protection and countryside conservation (Title V of
Council Regulation (EEC) No 797/85 ('), as last
amended by Regulation (EEC) No 1760/87).

The Commission has taken note, however, of the
statement by the Minister of the Walloon Region with
responsibility for Agriculture, Environment and Housing,

Premiums

6,972

0

43,750

241,129

57,653

66,510

0

545,356

0

0

10,943

0

972,315

Member State

Belgium

Denmark

Federal Republic of
Germany

Greece

Spain

France

Ireland

Italy

Luxembourg

Netherlands

Portugal

United Kingdom

Total

Refunds

0,764

0

3,253

17,820

1,659

0,787

0

37,505

o

0,114

0,060

0

61,961

vention

c

0

3,453

19,283

0

0,198

0

81,639

0

0

0

0

104,573

Total

7,736

0

50,457

278,232

59,312

67,495

0

664,500

0

0,114

11,003

0

1 138,849

2. According to the figures currently available to the
Commission, production of the Badischer Geudertheimer
variety and hybrids thereof in Italy should amount to
85 169 tonnes of leaf tobacco.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1476/90

by Mr Pol Marck (PPE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(13 June 1990)_

(91/C 70/27)

_Subject:_ Price of sugar beet in Belgium

The price of c-quota sugar beet in Belgium is much lower
than in other Member States. This is apparently because
of distribution arrangements between producers and
manufacturers with the latter advising individual
producers to plant 20 % more than the maximum quota.

Can the Commission agree with this and is such a practice
in line with the Community's stabilization policy?

Answer given by Mr Mac Sharry
on behalf of the Commission

_(17 July 1990)_

Price guarantees given to Community beet-growers and
sugar producers are only given for quantities produced
within the A and B quotas. There is no C quota.

No C 70/16 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 3. 91

delivered on 10 February 1990 on the occasion of
International Agriculture Week in Brussels, concerning
studies with a view to the implementation of Title V in
sensitive areas in Wallonia and the possibility of aid for
agricultural practices beneficial to the environment.

(') OJNoL93,30. 3. 1985.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1508/90

by Mrs Raymonde Dury (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(21 June 1990)_

(91/C70/29)

_Subject:_ Application of Directive 88/378/EEC on the
safety of toys

During the debate on a draft law on toy safety aimed at
transposing Council Directive 88/378/EEC (') into
Belgian law, a problem arose regarding Article 11 (1) of
the Directive. The affixing of the name and address of the
manufacturer to the product would enable consumers to
purchase directly from the manufacturer.

This practice could heavily penalize both retailers and
wholesalers.

1. Has the Commission given thought to this matter?

2. Would indication of the name and address of the

manufacturer in the form of a bar code be compatible
with the provisions of the Directive?

(') OJNoL 187, 16.7. 1988, p. 1.

Answer given by Mr Van Miert
on behalf of the Commission

_(11 September 1990)_

Article 11 (1) of Council Directive 88/378/EEC of 3 May
1988 provides that certain particulars such as the name
and/or trade name and/or mark and address of the

manufacturer or his authorized representative or the
importer into the Community, must be affixed either to
the toy or on the packaging in a legible form.

This provision is not aimed at modifying relations
between manufacturers and retailers or wholesalers.

The risk of a change in these relations in the manner
referred to by the Honourable Member was not raised
during discussions relating to the adoption of the
Directive.

The objective of Article 11 (1) is that both the inspection
authorities and consumers, whose attention must be

drawn to the advisability of retaining this information if it
is not affixed to the toy, may easily identify the person
within the Community capable of providing all
information or who may be contacted if there is a
problem.

With regard to the easy identification of the person to
contact within the Community, it does not seem desirable
to use bar codes which are less easily understood by

consumers.

Article 11 (4), however, provides that these particulars
may be abbreviated, provided that it is still possible to
identify the person concerned.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1521/90

by Sir James Scott-Hopkins (ED)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(21_ _June 1990)_

(91/C 70/30)

_Subject:_ Colourings in animal feed

What is the Commission doing to make it compulsory to
declare the use of artificial colourings in animal feed?

Answer given by Mr Mac Sharry
on behalf of the Commission

_(31_ _July 1990)_

Under the provisions of Council Directive
70/524/EEC (') concerning additives in feedingstuffs, the
declaration of colouring matters in animal feedingstuffs is
already obligatory.

(') OJNoL270, 14. 12. 1970, p. 1.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1535/90

by Mr Miguel Arias Canete (PPE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(27 June 1990)_

(91/C 70/31)

_Subject:_ Multiannual guidance programme for the fishing
fleet (1987 to 1991) forwarded by Spain pursuant
to Regulation (EEC) No 4028/86

In view of Decision 90/108/EEC (') of 9 February 1990
amending Decision 88/149/EEC ( [2] ) of 11 December 1987
on the multiannual guidance programme for the fishing
fleet (1987 to 1991) forwarded by Spain pursuant to

18. 3. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 70/17

Regulation (EEC) No 4028/86 ( [3] ) of 18 December 1987,
can the Commission say:

What are the reasons applied in the case of Spain for
altering the limits within which it must develop its fishing
fleet (in GRT and engine power) for the period covered
by the programme?

(') OJN0L66, 14.3. 199C,p. 27.
O OJNoL70, 16. 3. 1988, p. 27.
( [3] ) OJNoL376, 31. 12. 1986, p. 7.

Answer given by Mr Marin
on behalf of the Commission

_(7 August 1990)_

Decision 90/108/EEC of 9 February 1990 amending
Decision 88/149/EEC on the multiannual guidance
programme for the Spanish fishing fleet took account of
three factors:

— changes agreed for all Member States (exclusion of
vessels for aquaculture and fishing for bivalves,
programme target figures),

— changes in the basic list Spanish fleet, bringing it into
line with the terms of the Act of Accession

(Article 158),

— the specific situation of vessels construction of which
was authorized before accession, the principle being
set that this capacity should be taken into account in
the overall capacity reduction policy.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1543/90

by Mr Eugenio Melandri (V)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(27 June 1990)_

(91/C 70/32)

_Subject:_ Iraqi supergun and safety of nuclear weapons in
Europe

According to recent press reports, which have never been
denied by the military circles concerned, defective nuclear
weapons have been stationed in Europe for years and are
still being stationed here.

Trafficking in weapons and technology from Italy to Iraq
has recently come to light; this makes it possible for
Baghdad to construct powerful weapons designed to
destabilize the Middle Eastern region still further.

1. What measures to control arms trafficking have been
promoted by the Commission?

2. What controls are actually carried out in Europe to
monitor the safety of nuclear weapons ?

3. Is the Commission at last making plans to regulate
arms trafficking at European level, and if so by what
means? Is the Commission considering this matter?

4. Which Member States are availing themselves of the
possibility of importing weapons free of customs
duties and tax?

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1759/90

by Mr Giacomo Porrazzini
and Mr Roberto Speciale (GUE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(12 July 1990)_

(91/C 70/33)

_Subject:_ Illegal traffic in arms with Iraq

Whereas in the last few days the Italian security services
and judiciary have confirmed the outcome of the
investigations previously carried out by the UK and
revealed the existence of a dangerous international
network which organizes illegal arms deals on a massive
scale and in particular, at Iraq's request, the construction
of a new super-weapon, capable of undermining the
already precarious political and military balance in the
Mediterranean,

whereas it is especially serious that public and private
industrial and financial undertakings in various EEC
countries — with particular responsibility falling on Italy,
the United Kingdom, Belgium and Spain — are associated
with or involved in this initiative in a practical way,

whereas investigations have still to be carried out into
possible political and institutional cover-ups concerning
the Iraqi supergun operation which, if proven, are
extremely serious,

whereas the judiciary and security forces of the various
Community countries concerned must cooperate to carry
out a rapid and effective investigation and to impose
exemplary penalties,

what representations does the Council intend to make to
the governments of the countries concerned in order to:

1. prevent any recurrence of such serious and dangerous
abuses;

2. achieve at an early date harmonization and more
rigorous and effective controls in national legislation
over the construction of and trade in arms, not least in

No C 70/18 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 3. 91

order to affirm in a practical and consistent manner a
mission for peace in the world on the part of the
countries of the EEC?

Joint answer to Written Questions

Nos 1543/90 and 1759/90

on behalf of the Commission by Mr Andriessen

on behalf of the Commission

_(17 October 1990)_

The question of the Iraqi supergun and the safety of
atomic weapons in Europe does not come within the area
of the Commission's responsibility.

Nevertheless, the Commission is following this question
closely when it is raised elsewhere. This was the case in
particular when the Member States of the Community
took the view in the declaration of 20 April 1990 that the
acquisition of weapons of mass destruction by any Middle
Eastern country could only aggravate tensions and
increase the threat to peace and stability in the region.

For reasons of national security the Member States regard
information concerning trade in military equipment as
confidential. Accordingly the Commission is unable to
provide detailed information concerning the way in which
the Member States handle such imports. It can however be
stated that the approach differs greatly from country to
country.

Most Member States import duty free certain items of
military equipment included on the list adopted by the
Council in 1958 in application of paragraph 1 (b) of
Article 223 of the EEC Treaty but the situation differs
according to product.

In order to put an end to these differing approaches the
Commission has drawn up a proposal for a Council
Regulation designed to ensure uniform customs treatment
of imports of military equipment into the Community.

As regards the tax aspect there are no specific provisions
relating to trade in military equipment, which is subject to
VAT like any other goods. The Commission does not
intend to introduce such provisions.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1565/90

by Mr Jean-Pierre Raffarin (LDR)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(27 June 1990)_

(91/C 70/34)

_Subject:_ Financing of the Erasmus programme

The aim of the Erasmus programme, which is to ensure
the mobility of at least 10% of university students, is far
from being achieved.

The programme, which has aroused considerable
enthusiasm, is nevertheless failing to achieve optimum
development owing to the fact that its funding for the
current three-year period is grossly inadequate.

In order to take account of demand and achieve the initial

objective, does the Commission intend to review and
increase the funding for this programme?

Answer given by Mrs Papandreou
on behalf of the Commission

_(24 October 1990)_

In view of the constraints imposed by the financial
perspective 1988-92 attached to the interinstitutional
agreement, the Commission proposed the sum of ECU
192 million, which was adopted by the Council in its
Decision of 14 December 1989 on the implementation of
the Erasmus programme in 1990-92 (').

The Commission, aware of the difficulties arising out of
the fact that the budget is too small to cover the large
number of applications submitted by universities and
students, called on the Ministers of Education at the
Council meeting of 31 May 1990 to grant additional aid to
students wishing to spend part of their initial training in a
higher education establishment in another Member State
under the Erasmus programme.

With regard to 1993-94, the Commission will look into
ways of increasing the resources allocated to the
programme in a future financial perspective.

(') OJ No L 395, 30. 12. 1989.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1636/90

by Mrs Dorothy Piermont (ARC)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(4_ _July 1990)_

(91/C 70/35)

_Subject:_ Exclusion of New Zealand foodstuffs from the
EC market in 1986

A report in _Le Monde_ of 8 May 1990 quotes the former
New Zealand Prime Minister, David Lange, as saying that
in 1986 threats from France 'at the highest level' had
compelled New Zealand to accept a compromise
concerning the two French secret service agents involved
in the attack on Rainbow Warrior. Failure to accept this
compromise would have meant the exclusion from the EC
market of 245 000 tonnes of sheepmeat and 80 000 tonnes
of butter from New Zealand.

18. 3. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 70/19

1. Did these threats emanate from France alone or were

they discussed and agreed on in the Commission?

2. If so, on what occasion, when and where?

3. Does the Commission consider that there can be any
justification for repraisals against a third country
which has already been the victim of action by the
secret services of one of the Member States?

Answer given by Mr Mac Sharry
on behalf of the Commission

_(19 September 1990)_

The Commission is without knowledge of the rumoured
measures against New Zealand referred to by the
Honourable Member.

EC imports of butter and sheepmeat from New Zealand
have been the subject of agreements between the two
parties for many years.

Under the 1980 Voluntary Restraint Agreement on
sheepmeat, the annual quantity to be imported into the
Community was fixed at 245 500 tonnes with an import
levy of 10% ad valorem. In fact this quantity was never
utilized in full. The agreement has been subsequently
adjusted with effect from 1 January 1989 and now allows
for 205 000 tonnes to be imported every year until the end
of 1992. This quantity still allows New Zealand to
continue its exports at previous levels; in addition to
compensate for the reduced quota, the import levy has
been reduced to zero.

The import regime for butter entails a gradual reduction
of the import quota; this was decreased by 10 000 tonnes
to 64 500 tonnes at the beginning of 1989 and will
progressively reach 55 000 tonnes at the end of 1992. The
import levy has been reduced from 25 to 15% of the
intervention price for butter.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1654/90

by Mrs Teresa Domingo Segarra (GUE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(4 July 1990)_

(91/C 70/36)

_Subject:_ Compatibility of sharecropping with the
Community's rural development policy

Traditional forms of land ownership based on
sharecropping still exist in certain regions of the

Community. These contracts have an unfavourable
impact on the rural development of these areas, since they
frequently enable the owner to intervene in the
management of the farm, thereby reducing the tenant
farmer's independence. In addition, the system of crop
sharing reduces farmer's incentive to improve efficiency.
In the case of the Menorca 'Sociedad Rural' (included in
the special compilation of Balearic Civil Law based on
customs and usages), the contract can also be rescinded at
any time, which means that the tenant farmer is in a state
of permanent insecurity.

Does the Commission consider that such contracts are

compatible with current Community farm legislation?

If so, should not clear legal guarantees in respect of land
ownership arrangements be provided in order to avoid
jeopardizing the objectives of the rural development
policy?

Are the holdings under the system of 'Sociedad Rural' in
Menorca eligible for structural aid under Regulation
(EEC) No 797/85?

Who should receive such aid, the tenant farmer or
landowner?

Answer given by Mr Mac Sharry
on behalf of the Commission

_(2_ _August 1990)_

The Commission is well aware that certain types of
agricultural land tenure, particularly short-term
tenancies, can present risks for farmers envisaging
investments. However, given the diversity of legislation
concerning farm tenancies, which bear the stamp of
national and even local traditions, the Commission takes
the view that defining legal guarantees at Community
level could involve a very complex harmonization task.
The question of the compatibility of farm tenancies with
Community legislation and with the objectives of rural
development policy should therefore be tackled
pragmatically, i.e. by considering the practical
consequences of the leases on the application of
Community legislation.

As far as investment aids are concerned, under Regulation
(EEC) No 797/85 (') any person with legal and economic
responsibility for the holding may qualify for aid,
provided they satisfy certain conditions. In the case of
sharecropping, it is the tenant who is regarded as the
farmer. The objective of the Regulation is to improve the
competitive position of the holding and the farmer's
income. That is why the beneficiary can only be the
farmer. An owner can qualify for aids only for land he
farms himself.

No C 70/20 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 3. 91

According to the information available to the
Commission, the Community investment aid
arrangements introduced by Regulation (EEC)
No 797/85 are being properly applied in the Balearics,
including in the case of tenants farming land under the
Sociedad Rural Menorquina system. The special system
of farm tenancies which this organization operates does
not therefore seem to be an obstacle to the application of
the Community rules. However, the Commission
considers that where there is uncertainty farmers would
certainly benefit if it was stipulated in the lease that they
have possession of the land for a period commensurate
with the normal duration of the investments envisaged.

(') OJNoL93,30.3. 1985, p. 1.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1656/90

by Mr Adrien Zeller (PPE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(4_ _July 1990)_

(91/C 70/37)

_Subject:_ ECSC research assistance to iron and steel
undertakings

Iron and steel undertakings in the Member States are
eligible for assistance from the ECSC budget to carry out
research and development projects submitted annually to
the ECSC for its approval.

No research programme has yet been drawn up for 1990,
although appropriations are available under the
budgetary lines concerned and this would also appear to
be the outlook for the 1991 programme. This is creating a
climate of uncertainty for undertakings which have
proposed research projects to the ECSC and means that
these projects may well be abandoned in the absence of a
prompt decision.

What are the exact reasons for the delay by the ECSC in
adopting research projects eligible for its assistance?

Can the Commission give a firm undertaking concerning
the adoption of the programme of aid research for 1990 as
soon as possible and give adequate guarantees that such
delays will not recur in future?

Answer given by Mr Pandolfi
on behalf of the Commission

_(22 November 1990)_

At its meeting on 1 August 1990, the Commission decided
to refer to the ECSC Consultative Committee for an

opinion regarding the 1990 programme of technical
research projects and pilot/demonstration projects
(Steel).

There has indeed been a delay of several months
compared with other years, this being due to internal
discussions on the appropriate level of assistance.

In view of the circumstances, the Commission considers
that the Steel research programme will in future be able to
follow its usual timetable.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1659/90

by Mr Victor Arbeloa Muru (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(4_ _July 1990)_

(91/C70/38)

_Subject:_ An EEC Senate

In view of the fact that certain Member States have put
forward the suggestion of establishing a Senate to
represent the national parliaments, does the Commission
intend to ask the Advisory Committee on Regional and
Local Authorities to draw up a report or to hold a
working session dealing with this delicate subject, which
could have very major repercussions for the Community's
regions?

Answer given by Mr Millan
on behalf of the Commission

_(28 September 1990)_

Article 2 of the Commission Decision of 24 June 1988

setting up a Consultative Council of Regional and Local
Authorities (') states that the Consultative Committee
may be consulted by the Commission on any matter
relating to regional development.

However, acting on a proposal from its Bureau, the
Consultative Committee may place on its agenda points
for discussion which do not lead to a decision. At its

meeting of 21 and _22_ June 1990, the Consultative
Committee considered possible improvements to its
method of working within the existing legal provisions
and held an initial discussion on how the role of the

regional and local authorities could be strengthened as
part of the institutional reform of the Communities.

(') OJNoL247,6.9. 1988.

18. 3. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 70/21

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1718/90

by Mr Marc Galle (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(5_ _July 1990)_

(91/C 70/39)

_Subject:_ Measures to protect European flora

The Commission recently published the annexes to its
draft directive on habitat. In the annexes only 244 of the
1 000 plant species under threat in Europe are mentioned
as being eligible for protection under the habitat directive.

Does not the Commission agree that, in view of the real
protection requirements, this figure is ridiculously low?

Does the Commission share the view that the issue of the

protection of European wild flora, after more than a
decade of inactivity on its part, is more urgent than ever?

Apart from the habitat proposal, is the Commission
seriously considering modifying its other policies, in view
of the need for more effective protection of European
native flora?

In particular, is the Commission aware that over the last
decade the common agricultural policy and the regional
development policy have caused considerable damage to
the biotopes of numerous European plant species because
of the support given to intensive, uncontrolled
agricultural schemes?

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

_(14 November 1990)_

The Commission is fully aware of the urgent need to
protect plant species and their habitats in the Community.
For this reason more than 460 plant species are listed in
the annexes to the 'Habitats Directive' ('). It would also
remind the Honourable Member that it is primarily the
task of the Member States to decide which areas are to be

protected.

The Commission does not believe that the number of

species mentioned as eligible for protection is
'ridiculously low'. Careful examination of the annexes
shows that many species are protected via their habitats.

The Commission has undertaken to make substantial

improvements to other aspects of its policy to protect not
only European flora but the environment in general, and
to this end it is seeking to apply the principle of
integration referred to in the Treaty.

Thus, within the framework of the Common Agricultural
Policy the EAGGF Guidance Section can cofinance the
maintenance of biotopes in areas designated under
Articled (Regulation (EEC) No 797/85) ( [2] ), an
extension of which has recently been proposed.

In addition, in accordance with the provisions of the
Community Support Frameworks for regional assistance
by the structural Funds in objective 1, 2 and 5b regions
under the reform, the Commission is seeking to ensure,
when the operational programmes are approved, that the
Member States take due account of the effects they may
have on the environment.

O COM(90) 59 final.
O OJ No L 93, 30. 3.1985, p. 1.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1733/90

by Mr Pierre Carniti and Mr Luigi Vertemati (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(5 July 1990)_

(91/C 70/40)

_Subject:_ Prevention of health risks from electromagnetic
fields generated by electrodes

In view of the potential risk to human health from
prolonged exposure to ambient electrical and magnetic
fields, as borne out by recent studies (Italian health
ministry report of June 1989 entitled 'High-tension power
lines: ways and means of describing and assessing the
health risk', articles in _Scientific American_ (Environment
and Molecular Mutagens), in the _New York Times_ and
_International Herald Tribune_ of 13 July 1989 and in the 17
July 1989 edition of _Time,_ etc.), and in view of the
possibility of a close link between the onset of acute
pathological conditions and proximity to high-tension
power lines over extended periods, does not the
Commission believe that it should take stock of the

relevant studies carried out in the Member States and

consult the higher-education and research communities
and power companies with a view to drawing up a
directive to safeguard health by making it mandatory to
lay cables underground near built-up areas?

Answer given by Mrs Papandreou
on behalf of the Commission

_(9 November 1990)_

The Commission keeps abreast of knowledge on the
dangers of electromagnetic fields, including the review of

No C 70/22 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 3. 91

this subject by the International Non-ionizing Radiation
Committee (INIRC-IRPA), which includes several
high-level experts from Member States. The Committee,
which is supported by the Commission, works in liaison
with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the
International Labour Organization (ILO).

In drawing up its proposal for a directive on the
protection of workers against the risks from exposure to
physical agents (including electromagnetic fields) the
Commission has based itself on established facts. The

proposal is expected to be adopted at the end of 1991.

Protecting the public from these dangers (including those
of electricity supply networks) does not form part of the
Commission's programme at the present time.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1749/90

by Mrs Mechtild Rothe (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(12_ _July 1990)_

(91/C7C/41)

_Subject:_ Classification of animals as 'sensitive animals'
instead of 'agricultural products'

The European Parliamant's adoption of the Simmonds
report on calves and pigs kept in intensive farming
systems and the Morris report on the protection of
animals during transport has clearly demonstrated that
animal protection must be treated more seriously, even in
the case of stock farming.

Animal protectionists and their associations in particular
are calling for the relevant articles in the Treaty of Rome
to be amended so that animals are classified as 'sensitive

animals' instead of 'agricultural products'. This would
demonstrate their specific need for protection.

What is the Commission's view of this matter, and would
it approve a corresponding amendment to the Treaty of
Rome? If not, why not?

What measures or initiatives has the Commission taken

which would take account of this demand?

Answer given by Mr Mac Sharry
on behalf of the Commission

_(4 October 1990)_

The use of the term 'agricultural products' in Article 38 of
the EEC Treaty and the inclusion of live animals on the

list of products set out in Annex II of the Treaty, do not
imply that live animals are to be considered as inanimate.

On the contrary, the inclusion of live animals within the
scope of the common agricultural policy has resulted in
several Community Acts and proposals for Acts
concerning the welfare of animals on farms, during
transport and at the time of slaughter.

The Commission has consistently taken careful account in
its proposals of the special needs of live animals, and will
continue to do so in the future.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1764/90

by Mr Floras Wijsenbeek (LDR)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(12_ _July 1990)_

(91/C 70/42)

_Subject:_ Cooperative in the rail transport sector

In my Written Question No 642/90 (') on the creation of
the BTT cooperative in the Federal Republic of Germany
I asked the Commission whether this constituted a

distortion of competition.

Is the Commission aware that in France now there is a

similar development, in that the French Railways (SNCF)
have set up the cooperative 'Transeurochem' together
with the French company 'Compagnie Nouvelle de
Conteneurs' (CNC) which transports containers using
combined techniques and the French shipping company
Bourgey-Montreuil, which is, it should be noted, a
subsidiary of SNCF?

Can the Commission ascertain whether and to what

extent this constitutes distortion of competition and, if
this is the case, what steps will it take to deal with it?

(') OJ No C 266, 22. 10. 1990, p. 39.

Answer given by Sir Leon Brittan
on behalf of the Commission

_(7 September 1990)_

The Commission is aware that, in a matter of months, two
companies, 'Bahn Tank Transport' (BTT) and
'Transeurochem', have been set up in the Federal
Republic of Germany and France respectively.

Requests for information on BTT's practices have already
been sent to the German authorities and to the Deutsche

Bundesbahn (a partner in BTT). A similar request is about

18. 3. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 70/23

to be sent to the SNCF with a view to ascertaining the
nature and scope of collaboration between the firms
taking part in Transeurochem.

The Commission will be certain to keep the Honourable
Member informed of developments.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1793/90

by Mr James Ford (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(13 July 1990)_

(91/C7C/43)

_Subject:_ Threat to Erasmus and Comett funding

The urgent need for funding for Eastern Europe being
unquestionable, can the Commission, however, give an
assurance that the important groundwork already laid in
facilitating and encouraging Erasmus and Comett
schemes will not be threatened by reducing current levels
of funding so that resources can be channelled elsewhere
and further confirm that adequate provision will be made
for Eastern Europe's special needs out of a separate fund?

Answer given by Mrs Papandreou
on behalf of the Commission

_(5 November 1990)_

The Honourable Member may rest assured that all
financial assistance to the countries of Central and

Eastern Europe is additional to the funds already
provided for existing Community programmes. The
Tempus programme, which is designed to be a companion
programme drawing on the experience of the Comett and
Erasmus programmes, is funded from the Phare budget.
The creation of Tempus has had no impact on the budgets
of either Erasmus or Comett.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1796/90

by Mrs Patricia Rawlings (ED)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(13 July 1990)_

(91/C 70/44)

_Subject:_ Rings of light for bicycle riders

In response to Oral Question No H-1010/88 ('), the
Commission promised to investigate the result of a road

safety test in Holland on the retroflecting ring on bicycle
wheels.

Has the Commission reached a decision as to whether the

use of such a lifesaving device should be compulsory
within the Community and is the legislation being drawn
up at the moment?

(') Debates of the European Parliament No 2-377 (April 1989).

Answer given by Mr Van Miert
on behalf of the Commission

_(7 September 1990)_

The evaluation of the use of retroflecting rings on bicycles
in the Netherlands has indicated that such a device indeed

has a positive impact on road safety.

Making such devices compulsory on a Community scale is
being considered but would require a comparison with
other systems of retroflecting devices.

Introduction of such a proposal at manufacturing level
would call for some kind of European type approval. This
has to be considered next to other priorities in the field of
type approval for transport to which the Commission has
committed itself before the opening of the Single Market
in 1993.

Making the fitting of such devices compulsory would
require a change of attitude by certain Member States
which are contesting Community's competence in the
field of road safety and have blocked several important
proposals on the table of the Council.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1798/90

by Mr Lyndon Harrison (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(13 July 1990)_

(91/C 70/45)

_Subject:_ East-West cultural cooperation

What initiatives is the Commission planning for
cooperation between the European Community and the
countries of Eastern Europe in the field of culture?

No C 70/24 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 3. 91

Answer given by Mr Dondelinger
on behalf of the Commission

_(20 September 1990)_

During 1990 the Commission has contributed to a
number of cultural events held in or directly related to
Central and Eastern Europe.

_Denmark_

Arhus Festival — 'Looking East', Arhus: September 199C

_Belgium_

European Poetry Festival — participation of poets from
Eastern Europe, Louvain: 23-29 September 1990

_Switzerland_

'Conference Europe-Monde' — organized by the 'Centre
Europeen de la Culture' in Geneva, the principle
participants coming from Eastern Europe, Lisbon: 10-12
October 1990

_United Kingdom_

European Community Youth Orchestra, London — Tour
of Eastern Europe: August 1990

_Holland:_

Gulliver Conference — in Eastern Europe, Leningrad:
21-26 May 1990

_Yugoslavia_

International Young Musician Competition in Belgrade
— Prize 2 _x_ ECU 500 plus Catalogue: 22 March-2 April
1990

_France_

Les Lettres Europeennes — Conference 'Pour une
Europe de la Culture' with a number of participants from
Eastern Europe: 12-13 May 1990

_France_

Centre Confluences/Paris — visits by young artists from
all disciplines from Eastern Europe: 1990-1991 (1 year)

In 1991 the Commission intends to promote further
cultural contracts with Central and Eastern Europe. In
order to define a specific programme, fact-finding
missions to Central and Eastern Europe are envisaged to
assess the priority fields for cultural cooperation, after
which an appropriate programme may be developed.

Cultural cooperation will also be dealt with in the
Association Agreements to be negotiated with Central
and East European countries.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1800/90

by Mr Mihail Papayannakis (GUE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(13 July 1990)_

(91/C 70/46)

_Subject:_ Extension of the airport on the Greek island of
Chios

At the recent regional council of the Northern Aegean
held in Mitilini (Lesbos), it was decided by a slim majority
— with the Chios members voting against — that the
extension of the airport on Chios would be incorporated
into the Regional Development Plan. It had not been
possible to reach agreement on this matter at the previous
council held in Chios.

The extension of the airport will probably be of benefit to
the island. However,

(a) the extension is being carried out in residential areas,
in the direction of the 'green belt' district of Kampos,

(b) Framework Law No 1650/1986 on the protection of
the environment provides for the application of
environmental impact assessment in accordance with
the spirit and the letter of Directive 85/337/EEC ('),
and

(c) Article 5 of Framework Law No 1650/1986 and
Article 6 (2) and (3) of Directive 85/337/EEC
stipulate that the public concerned must be given the
opportunity to express an opinion before the project
is initiated.

Can the Commission state whether Directive

85/337/EEC on the assessment of the effects of certain

public and private projects on the environment has been
complied with? What action does the Commission intend
to take in response to the fact that the statutory measures
provided for in Framework Law No 1650/1986 (which
came into force three and a half years ago) for
determining the system of informing the public have not
yet been implemented, with the result that the relevant
provisions of both the Framework Law and Directive
85/337/EEC have not taken effect?

O OJNoL 175,5.7. 1985, p. 40.

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

_(16 November 1990)_

As the Honourable Member points out, Greece has not
yet adopted the provisions which would incorporate into
national law Directive 85/337/EEC on the assessment of

the effects of certain public and private projects on the
environment.

18. 3. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 70/25

The Commission has therefore initiated an infringement
procedure, as provided for in Article 169 of the Treaty.

The work on Chios airport, which is being cofinanced
under the Chios NPCI, consists of extending the landing
strip from 1 630 to 2 000 metres. Work of this nature is
subject only to Annex II of Directive 85/337/EEC.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1826/90

by Mr Florus Wijsenbeek (LDR)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(20 July 1990)_

(91/C 70/47)

_Subject:_ Confidentiality of information

Can the Commission say whether information made
available to advisory committees is confidential?

Does the Commission not take the view that certain

information obtained from private companies should not
be passed on to third parties, particularly in the case of
NGOs which hold fundamentally different views about
the products marketed by the private companies in
question and about current Community legislation.

Can the Commission explain why it provided the
WEMOS organization with information on
pharmaceutical products, as evidenced by paragraph 3 of
a press release of 14 March 1990 concerning the CPMP?

Will the Commission refrain from such reprehensible
conduct in the future?

Answer given by Mr Delors
on behalf of the Commission

_(24 October 1990)_

Generally speaking, the Commission is satisfied with the
quality of the information and the level of expertise
available to it for the purposes of its committees and
working parties.

In all the fields in which it has responsibilities, the
Commission receives information which can be highly
confidential at times. This information is treated with the

greatest discretion. On the other hand, as regards
non-confidential data, the Commission endeavours to
respond, as far as it can, to requests for information from
legitimate organizations, whatever views they hold.

In the case referred to by the Honourable Member,
WEMOS, a Dutch non-governmental organization,
asked the Commission for information relating to the sale
of certain pharmaceutical products in the Community.
The Committee for Proprietary Medicinal Products
prepared a reply, acting under Article 33 of Directive
75/319/EEC, which gives it responsibility for exchanging
information on decisions authorizing the marketing of
products adopted under national procedures. This reply
contained nothing more than administrative information
deriving from the Member States. It does not reveal any
confidential information or any data obtained from
pharmaceutical firms.

Furthermore, as Parliament has asked, the type of
information made available to WEMOS will in future be

available to the public through a data bank currently
being setup.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1864/90

by Mr Hermann Verbeek (V)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(20 July 1990)_

(91/C 70/48)

_Subject:_ EEC tennis tournament in Antwerp

The answer to Written Question No 899/89 (') by Mr
Verbeek and Mr Staes about the EEC tennis tournament

in Antwerp was as follows: the Commission has not
provided any financial assistance for this year's EEC
tournament in Antwerp or for the previous seven events.

In the light of this assertion, what is the Commission's
response to the allegations by Nigel Tutt in his book
'Europe on the Fiddle', that the Commission channelled
Fl 63 000 into the promotion of media coverage of these
tennis championships?

O OJNoC 117, 11.5. 1990, p. 12.

Answer given by Mr Dondelinger
on behalf of the Commission

_(26 September 1990)_

In the light of further checks the Commission can only
confirm its previous answer, namely that the Antwerp
Tennis Tournament received no financial assistance for

the present seven events.

No C 70/26 Official Journal of the

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1865/90

by Mrs Carmen Diez de Rivera Icaza (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(20 July 1990)_

(91/C 70/49)

_Subject:_ Application of the Erasmus scheme in the
musical sector

During the debate on the Papapietro report on 'the
teaching and promotion of music in the European
Community' (Doc. A2-220/87) Mr Ripa di Meana, who
was Commissioner for Culture at the time, took the view
that the proposal to launch an Erasmus musical scheme
was an excellent one.

Has the Commission taken any steps in this direction? If
not, does the Commission intend to take the necessary
measures to initiate such an excellent project?

Answer given by Mr Dondelinger
on behalf of the Commission

_(11 October 1990)_

In their conclusions of _27_ May 1988 the Council and the
Ministers responsible for cultural affairs agreed to make
vocational training one of their four main priorities.

On 18 May 1990 the Commission sent the Ministers
responsible for cultural affairs a working paper
containing guidelines covering all cultural sectors. The
Commission's main aim is to identify problems in cultural
training at Community level and to help improve the
quality of training by encouraging the flow of
information and promoting the exchange of experience
and skills.

The Ministers responsible for cultural affairs welcomed
the document and noted that, in order to achieve these
objectives, the Commission would be looking at ways of
making use of existing structures, programmes and funds
at national and Community level so as not to create new
mechanisms.

The Commission was asked to pursue its work and to
present a communication on vocational training in the
cultural sector to the Council and Parliament in

November this year.

Vocational training in the music sector will receive the
same treatment as other cultural sectors.

European Communities 18. 3. 91

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1949/90

by Mr Francois-Xavier de Donnea (LDR)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(1 September 1990)_

(91/C 70/50)

_Subject:_ Notice of invitation to tender concerning the
establishment of an Industrial Relations

Observatory

On 19 April 1990 the Commission published a notice of
invitation to tender concerning the establishment of an
Industrial Relations Observatory in the European
Community ( [l] ).

1. On the basis of what directive is the Commission

establishing this observatory?

2. Why does the Commission not have this study carried
out by its own staff?

3. What precautions does the Commission intend to take
to ensure that the 'interpretation of events', referred
to in paragraph 3 (b) of the notice of invitation to
tender is carried out objectively?

4. Does not the Commission consider that the Economic

and Social Committee could play a useful role in the
collection and interpretation of information on
collective bargaining?

O OJNoC99, 19.4. 1990.

Answer given by Mrs Papandreou
on behalf of the Commission

_(12 September 1990)_

1. The establishment of an Industrial Relations

Observatory is based on Article 118b of the Treaty.

This Article stipulates that 'the Commission shall
endeavour to develop the dialogue between management
and labour at European level which could, if the two sides
consider it desirable, lead to relations based on
agreement'.

The task of the Observatory will be to foster the
Community-wide dialogue between management and
labour at both sectoral and multisectoral levels, by
providing information and analyses of developments in
industrial relations in the Member States, and to promote
links between such dialogue at Community level and
collective bargaining at national level, thus helping to
bring about greater social cohesion within the
Community.

2. The decision to give an external body the task of
setting up the Observatory was dictated by the shortage of
staff within the Commission and by considerations of
efficiency, since in many cases the external bodies in

18. 3. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 70/27

question have correspondents in each of the Member
States.

3. To ensure that the 'interpretation of events' is
objective, the external body selected must have genuine
and acknowledged experience and competence in the area
concerned.

4. The collection and interpretation of information on
collective bargaining must be handled by an agency of
which rapidity and flexibility are significant attributes.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1962/90

by Mr Gerard Monnier-Besombes, Mr Gianfranco
Amendola, Mr Juan Bandres-Molet, Mr Virginio Bettini

and Mrs Maria Santos (V)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(1 September 1990)_

(91/C 70/51)

_Subject:_ EEC structural intervention and protection of
the natural and biological heritage

Whereas the protection of the environment is an integral
part of Community policy by virtue of Article 130r of the
EEC Treaty, and whereas the three structural funds must
fulfil the requirements laid down in Articles 130r, 130s
and 130t,

whereas there are a worrying number of cases in several
Member States of projects financed from the structural
funds which have had a destructive impact on the
environment (the Gulf of Amvrakikos, Prespes, etc. in
Greece; eucalyptus in Portugal; bears in the Pyrenees;
hydro-electric dams in Spain; the development of peat
moors and reafforestation in Ireland, etc.),

the Commission is asked whether:

— DG XI is currently sufficiently well informed as to the
content and the repercussions of the projects financed
from the structural funds;

— it expresses a concrete opinion on these programmes,
taking into account _inter_ _alia_ the application of current
Community legislation;

— its opinion is taken into account in the implementation
of these programmes;

— it regularly follows up and monitors the
implementation of these programmes;

— it intends significantly to upgrade the financial and
human resources of DG XI to enable the latter to

fulfil its important monitoring function with respect
to the structural funds, and to foster an improved
process of coordination between its DGs;

— it is prepared to consider ways of formally involving
regional and national NGOs in the preparation and
follow-up of programmes and projects;

— it is prepared to take steps to ensure greater
transparency, notably by publicizing at regional and
national level the programmes and projects eligible for
financing from the structural funds, before they are
submitted to the Commission;

— it intends to penalize Member States whose projects
fail to respect Community law on the environment by
blocking Community funds allocated to these projects
and, possibly, other funds?

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2013/90

by Mr Mihail Papayannakis, Mr John Iversen, Mrs Adriana
Ceci, Mr Renzo Imbeni, Mr Alonso Puerta and Mr Cesare

de Piccoli (GUE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(1 September 1990)_

(91/C 70/52)

_Subject:_ Community structural measures and the
protection of the natural and biological heritage

Given that:

environmental protection is an integral part of
Community policy under the terms of Article 130r of the
EEC Treaty and the three structural funds must meet the
requirements laid down in the new Articles 130r, s and t,

there are a disturbing number of allegations, emanating
from several Member States, that the structural funds are
financing projects which have a destructive impact on the
environment (Gulf of Amvrakikos, Prespes, etc. in
Greece, eucalyptus trees in Portugal, bears in the
Pyrenees, hydro-electric dams in Spain, the development
of peat bogs and reafforestation in Ireland),

can the Commission state:

1. Whether DG XI is currently sufficiently well
informed of the substance and repercussions of the
programmes financed by the structural funds, whether
it expresses an opinion on these programmes taking
into account, inter alia, the application of Community
law, whether its opinion is taken into consideration
when these programmes are implemented and whether
it monitors that implementation by means of regular
follow-up checks?

No C 70/28 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 3. 91

2. Whether it intends to increase significantly the
financial and human resources allocated to DG XI, in
order to cater for this important task of monitoring
the structural funds, and improved coordination
between its directorates-general?

3. Whether it is prepared to consider ways of involving,
on an institutional basis, regional and national NGOs
and the preparation and monitoring of programmes
and projects?

4. Whether it is prepared to ensure greater transparency,
particularly by publicizing at regional and national
level, programmes and projects likely to be financed
by the structural funds before they are put to the
Commission?

5. Whether it intends to penalize Member States whose
projects do not comply with Community law on the
environment by blocking Community funding for
these projects and, if necessary, other funding?

Joint answer to Written Questions Nos 1962/90

and 2013/90

given by Mr Christophersen
on behalf of the Commission

_(14 January 1991)_

Under the new rules, the operations of the structural
Funds must comply with Community legislation on the
environment (').

Applications for assistance from the structural Funds are
prepared and drawn up by the competent authorities
appointed by the Member States. They must be
accompanied by an undertaking by the Member State to
the effect that the measure in question is compatible with
Community legislation and policies and, in addition, the
Commission asks that all the necessary information on
the state of the environment in question be made available
t o i t O .

The Community support frameworks adopted by the
Commission within the framework of the partnership
reiterate this obligation.

With regard to operational programmes, the Commission
document of July 1990 entitled 'Applications for
assistance: co-financing of operational programmes'
specifies the level and type of information required.

As far as the individual projects are concerned, the
procedure is more or less binding, depending on whether
they are covered by Annex I or Annex II to Directive
85/337/EEC ( [3] ).

Respect for the environment is systematically assessed for
operational programmes, as for other types of assistance,
submitted for Community financing. If necessary,

discussions are held with the Member State to find a

satisfactory solution under Community law.

However, operational programmes are the form of
assistance given preference under the reform of the
Funds ( [4] ). A programme consists of a series of
multiannual measures ( [5] ) and only exceptionally includes
a description of individual projects, which are to be
defined by the Member State for the implementation of
the programmes.

The method of assessing their impact on the environment
is obviously different. In accordance with the principle of
subsidiarity, the Member States themselves, and in
particular their competent authorities, are responsible for
ensuring that Community legislation is actually applied
during implementation of the individual projects. This is
also the case with supervision, which is mainly carried out
by the competent authorities of the Member States.

However, it has to be admitted that the preparation and
collection of information regarding compliance with
environmental standards by the Member States is often
beset with difficulties due to a lack of information,
expertise or communication between the authorities
responsible for the programmes and those responsible for
the environment. Furthermore, this activity tends to
conflict with the objective of setting up the programmes
as quickly as possible. In the context of technical
assistance, the Commission can contribute to the
financing of the outside expertise needed by the Member
States to collect this information. Lastly, the Commission
may, on its own initiative, carry out evaluation studies on
both implementation and a sample of actual cases.

Operational programmes are also subjected to regular
monitoring by committees created for that purpose.
Commission representatives participate in the work of
these committees, which generally meet twice a year. They
can therefore verify whether Community legislation is
being applied correctly, at least in the case of the more
important measures. The national authorities responsible
for the environment and the regions can also take part in
the work of the monitoring committees.
Non-governmental organizations can always make their
points of view known to these authorities or directly to
the Commission.

In the context of the reform, control of respect for the
environment involves both the departments responsible
for the environment and the departments which
administer the Funds. At this stage, the Commission feels
that it is best able to ensure that the Member States

understand their obligations by strengthening
cooperation between those departments.

With regard to transparency, the Commission has no
knowledge of, and therefore no influence on, the projects
and programmes drawn up by the Member States until
they are submitted to it. In addition, the Commission feels
confident that all projects and programmes which are

18. 3. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 70/29

submitted to it have been debated by the appropriate
authorities in each Member State.

As far as the question of prior publicity for projects and
programmes is concerned, the regulations governing the
structural Funds impose no obligation on the Member
States to publish the assessment of the environmental
impact of these measures.

Lastly, where the Commission possesses proof that, in the
case of one or more measures, Community policies,
particularly environmental policy, have not been or are
not being complied with, and without prejudice to any
legal action, it terminates the payments from the
Community Funds to the measure or measures in question
and notifies the Member State responsible for
implementation of the programme accordingly. This
provision is specified in the decisions on the grant of aid
for operational programmes.

(') Article 7 of Regulation (EEC) No 2052/88, OJ No L 185, 15.
7.1988.
( [2] ) The type of information required is based on the internal
instructions concerning the assessment of the environmental
impact of plans, programmes and projects presented in the
context of the structural Funds, adopted by the Commission
at the end of 1988, of which the Permanent Representatives
were informed in a letter of 19 December 1988 (a copy is
being sent directly to the Honourable Members and to
Parliament's secretariat).

O O J N o L 175,5.7.1985.
O Article 12 of Regulation (EEC) No 4253/88, OJ No L 374,
31.12.1988.

O Article 5 (5) of Regulation (EEC) No 2052/88, referred to
above.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1974/90

by Mr Alex Smith (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(1 September 1990)_

(91/C 70/53)

_Subject:_ Market distortions in the European polyester
films industry

Because of alleged distortions in the European market for
polyester films, major cuts in employment are currently
under consideration.

Will the Commission therefore detail:

1. What steps they have taken to counter the adverse
effects on the European market of dumping by South
Korean producers?

2. What steps they have taken to counter the serious
distortion of competition caused by state aids to
oriented polypropylene film producers by the Italian
authorities?

Answer given by Mr Andriessen
on behalf of the Commission

_(17 October 1990)_

1. In November 1989, the Commission received a
complaint lodged by the European Plastic Films
Membrane and Covering Manufacturers Association
(AEC) alleging that imports of thin polyester film
originating in the Republic of Korea are being dumped
and are thereby causing injury to a Community industry.
The Commission initiated an anti-dumping proceeding
and the notice of opening was published in Official
Journal No C 24 of 1 February 1990.

The investigation is still in progress and no preliminary
conclusion has yet been reached concerning the
allegations of dumping and injury made against the South
Korean producers.

2. The Commission has requested detailed information
from the Italian Government concerning the alleged grant
of State aid to investments in the polypropylene film
sector. This information has not yet been transmitted.

The investments may, however, have benefitted from
regional aid systems as approved by the Commission and
in principle available to every branch of industry in
assisted areas in Italy and other Member States.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1982/90

by Mr Hemmo Muntingh (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(1 September 1990)_

(91/C 70/54)

_Subject:_ Imports of dead wild birds into Spain

Research by the Sociedad Espanola de Ornitologia and
the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds has found
that 'Chinese sparrows' ('gorriones chinos') are imported
into Spain in large numbers from Italy for human
consumption principally by frozen food companies.

1. Can the Commission state how many 'gorriones
chinos' were imported into the Community in 1989 (or
the latest year for which figures are available) ?

2. Is the Commission satisfied that all birds sold in the

Community which are labelled as 'gorriones chinos'
are not of EC origin, given the widespread illegal use
of European wild birds for human consumption?

No C 70/30 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 3. 91

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

_(13 December 1990)_

1. Since the birds in question have not been identified
as belonging to species covered by the Washington
Convention or the birds' Directive, no import statistics
are available.

2. No, the Commission has no information on this

matter.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1988/90

by Mr Dieter Rogalla (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(1 September 1990)_

(91/C70/55)

_Subject:_ Incorporation of Directive 85/203/EEC by the
Federal Republic of Germany into its legislation
and its immediate implementation

1. Has Directive 85/203/EEC _(_ _[l]_ _)_ of 7 March 1985 on
air quality standards for nitrogen dioxide been
incorporated by the Federal Republic of Germany into its
legislation?

2. If so, under what legal provisions were Articles 3(1)
and 7 (3) of the Directive incorporated into German Law?

3. If not, are Community citizens directly empowered,
under Article 3 of Directive 85/203/EEC, to make an
individual complaint to the responsible authorities of
their Member State and call for measures to reduce

pollution, if nitrogen oxide concentrations in the area in
which they live exceed the limit values?

(') OJNoL87,27. 3. 1985, p. 1.

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

_(17 October 1990)_

1 and 2. The Commission considers that the provisions
of Directive 85/203/EEC have not been incorporated
into German legislation and that TA Luft is not an
adequate means of incorporation. Since the German
Government considers that it has fulfilled its obligations
under the abovementioned directive, the difference of
opinion will have to be resolved within the framework of
the Article 169 proceedings which the Commission has
initiated against the Federal Republic of Germany.

3. In the final analysis, it is for the Court of Justice to
interpret the scope of the effects of a Community
provision. Where Article 3 of Directive 85/203/EEC is

concerned, the limit values of the directive were laid down
on the basis of considerations to do with the protection of
human health (fifth recital, Article 1(1)) and these values
must not be exceeded throughout the territory of the
Member States (Article 2). In principle, that would
suggest that the provisions on the limit value have a direct
effect, but the right to bring an action depends on the
legal system of each Member State; accordingly, it

t [ depends on the interpretation of the legal system given by ]
the courts in each Member State whether individuals can

bring an action for a reduction in NO x concentrations in
the air.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2015/90

by Mrs Christine Crawley (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(1 September 1990)_

(91/C 70/56)

_Subject:_ Discrimination against British forces wives living
in Europe with their husbands

Is the Commission aware that British Forces families have

experienced increasing discrimination in a number of
areas of social security since 1977 due to changes in UK
regulations? The main difficulties are due to very rigid
interpretation of residence qualifications and affect
unemployment benefit, severe disablement and family
credit. Could the Commission comment on these

difficulties and tell me whether they will be alleviated by
measures in the Social Charter or the atypical work
directives?

Answer given by Mrs Papandreou
on behalf of the Commission

_(2 October 1990)_

The Commission is unaware of any cases where the UK
authorities have discriminated against British forces
families in matters of social security.

The family credit is not a social security benefit but a
social assistance benefit and is thus excluded from the

scope of Regulation (EEC) No 1408/71 on the
application of social security schemes to employed
persons and their families moving within the Community.

As regards unemployment benefits, Article 4 (4) of the
abovementioned Regulation states that the latter does not
apply to special schemes for civil servants. Frequently
such schemes also cover persons in the armed forces (the

18. 3. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 70/31

Commission's action programme to implement the
Community Charter of Fundamental Social Rights will,
however, extend the Regulation's scope to include these
schemes).

Subject to the foregoing conditions, the competent body
in the United Kingdom is obliged, if the person concerned
last worked in that Member State, to grant him or her the
unemployment benefits payable under the UK legislation,
taking into account where necessary any periods of
insurance or employment completed in another Member
State (Article 67 of Regulation (EEC) No 1408/71).

Inasmuch as the severe disablement allowance constitutes

a social security benefit, the competent body in the United
Kingdom is obliged, if the person concerned is resident in
that Member State, to grant him or her the said allowance
under the legislation which it administers, taking into
account where necessary any periods of insurance
completed under the legislation of another Member State.

The proposed Directive on atypical work covers areas
other than those to which the Honourable Member's

question relates.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2016/90

by Mrs Christine Crawley (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(1 September 1990)_

(91/C 70/57)

_Subject:_ Social security regulations as they affect service
wives

Is the Commission aware that the UK Government treats

UK nationals returning to the UK after a period of more
than three to five years residence elsewhere in the
European Community as 'first arrivals' and that this
means that they are excluded from claiming
unemployment benefit under European Community
reciprocal arrangements on the grounds that they are not
'habitually resident' in the UK?

This regulation applies to wives of members of the armed
services who have been posted abroad with their
husbands. Is the Commission aware that this means that a

service wife who is posted abroad with her husband for
more than three to five years, who works and pays
national insurance contributions in that country, will find
herself ineligible for unemployment benefit based on
those contributions when she returns to the UK?

Would the Commission inform me whether other

Member States place similar restrictions on service wives
and whether, in their opinion, such restrictions are in the
spirit of equal treatment in social security arrangements?
If the Commission feels that these restrictions are not in

the spirit of equal treatment, what representations will
they make to the UK Government?

Answer given by Mrs Papandreou
on behalf of the Commission

_(28 September 1990)_

Article 4 (4) of Regulation (EEC) No 1408/71 on the
application of social security schemes to employed
persons and their families moving within the Community
stipulates that the Regulation does not apply to special
schemes for civil servants, to which armed services
personnel are often affiliated.

On condition that the interested party last worked in the
United Kingdom, Article 67 of the Regulation requires
the competent institution of that country to pay the
unemployment benefit provided for under its own
legislation and to take into account, to the extent
necessary, periods of insurance or employment completed
under the legislation of any other Member State.

The Commission has no knowledge of any cases of
refusal by the United Kingdom authorities to grant
unemployment benefit which are incompatible with the
aforesaid provisions.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2018/90

by Mr Madron Seligman (ED)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(1 September 1990)_

(91/C70/58)

_Subject:_ Profitable, pollution-free disposal of worn tyres

The technology exists for burning waste tyres without the
production of any toxic, black smoke while using the heat
from combustion to produce electricity.

This technology has been successfully employed in West
Germany and the USA for many years. Its more
widespread use throughout the Community would have
distinct advantages:

1. Reduction of serious pollution from accidental or
arson fires in huge stacks of unwanted tyres;

18. 3. 91
No C 70/32 Official Journal of the European Communities

2. Production of electric power without using finite
resources of oil or gas or indeed coal.

Would the Commission take steps to encourage the
adoption of this technology in view of its important
advantages?

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

_(17 October 1990)_

Disposal and recycling of used tyres is a problem of great
concern for the Commission.

A large percentage of used tyres in Europe are still
incinerated in the cement industry, although this
possibility has been considerably reduced recently.
Another possibility which is extensively employed is the
recycling of used tyres to produce granulated material.
Agriculture also employs a percentage of these used tyres.
However, all of these possibilities have been reduced over
recent years, resulting in a pile-up of used tyres, being
kept in storage or landfilled. This is a potentially
dangerous situation, illustrated by the Canadian disaster,
where a large used-tyre dump caught fire recently,
causing serious pollution.

In the past, both the OECD and the Commission
published reports concerning used tyres. There is a
common opinion that retreading is the best alternative,
with recycling as the most suitable second choice where
retreading is not possible. Incineration, resulting in the
generation of energy, is also an acceptable method.
Landfill of tyres is not only dangerous but also a waste of
potential energy and raw materials.

In this context, it should be mentioned that during the last
10 years, the Community has supported several
demonstration projects aiming at energy production from
used tyres. This possibility remains open, in the
framework of the new Thermie programme.

This year, the Commission is starting up a new working
method for a few priority waste streams. Used tyres are
included in these waste streams. This new working
method is called 'strategic discussion' or 'examination of
priority waste streams'. The process as a whole is divided
into five phases: programme preparation — analysis —
strategy development — strategy decision — making
operational. The operational phase will be concluded with
an implementation plan. This new approach is set up in
collaboration with all bodies concerned at Community
level.

It is the intention of the Commission to formulate a policy
concerning this problem within the next two years. There
is no doubt that the suggestions regarding incineration
for energy production put forward by the Honourable
Member will be examined seriously and some of them

could well be implemented as long as the standards
established for incineration of wastes are being fulfilled.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2103/90

by Mr Mauro Chiabrando (PPE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(17 September 1990)_

(91/C 70/59)

_Subject:_ International agreements on trade in tanning
products

Is the Commission aware that restrictions on freedom of

international trade in the tanning and hides sector are
continuing and even worsening and that restrictions and
obstacles to import and export accompanied by high levies
are being imposed in particular by Japan, India, Nigeria
and Bangladesh?

If so, in view of the problems affecting a large number of
companies and workers in the European tanning sector,
does the Commission intend to do its utmost in GATT

negotiations and elsewhere to dismantle excessively
protectionist barriers outside the Community and achieve
a better balance in international trade in this sector?

Answer given by Mr Andriessen
on behalf of the Commission

_(19 November 1990)_

In the course of its preparations for the Uruguay Round
negotiations, the Commission has been able to acquire a
considerable amount of information concerning the
widespread restrictions which exist in international trade
in the skins and tanning sector. Much of this information
has been helpfully provided by trade organizations
including COTANCE, the Confederation of National
Associations of Tanners and Dressers of the European
Community.

The Commission is indeed seriously preoccupied by the
plethora of export restrictions being applied in this sector
and shares the industry's view that world trade in these
products needs to be opened up and put on a fairer basis
than exists at present, and is pursuing this objective
vigorously in the Uruguay Round negotiations, notable in
the Market Access negotiations and in particular in the
negotiating group on Natural Resources. As far as Japan
is concerned, the Commission is also conducting bilateral
negotiations to secure a change in the present restrictive
tariff quota arrangements applied by that country to
leather and leather footwear imports. It is not reasonable
for a country which is as wealthy and as highly
industrialized as Japan to continue to apply such

18. 3. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 70/33

restrictive measures, particularly given the Japanese
Government's commitment to international trade

liberalization.

The other countries mentioned in the question are all
developing countries to which slightly different criteria
apply. It has to be recognized that under the existing rules
developing countries are specifically exempted from many
of the obligations of the GATT, including, in certain
circumstances, the obligation to permit access to their
markets. The Community's view is that the developing
countries, particularly those with a successful economic
record in recent years, should now be in a position to
assume more of the obligations of GAIT membership.
The Commission is arguing this case forcefully in Geneva,
and is also seeking to ensure that there is a strengthening
of GATT rules and disciplines, including the rules on
access to raw materials and to markets. The Community's
leather and tanning industry will be among the first to
benefit from any positive outcome to these negotiations.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2174/90

byMrRolfLinkohr(S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(4 October 1990)_

(91/C 70/60)

_Subject:_ SNCF high-speed rail link: infringement of EC
directive on the protection of birds

The French railway company, SNCF, plans to construct a
high-speed rail link through the Crau region in southern
France. The Crau has become internationally renowned
among nature protection associations as a result of
television films and conservation projects.

1. Is it true that the EC has allocated funds for the

purchase of an area of land in the Crau and does the
Commission therefore consider that it has a special
obligation to help protect the region's ecology?

2. Does the Commission consider that the proposed rail
route conflicts with the EC directive on the protection
of birds?

3. What action is the Commission taking to ensure that
the route selected for the rail link is compatible with
European environment policy?

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

_(27 November 1990)_

1. Under the ACE programme (Community actions for
the environment), the Commission has allocated funds
for maintaining the biotope of the Crau seche. These
funds will cover, inter alia, the purchase of land.

2. In the Commission's view, the TGV rail route
through the Crau is incompatible with France's
obligations deriving from Directive 79/409/EEC on the
conservation of wild birds (').

3. The Commission has not only obtained from the
French authorities a firm commitment to classify the Crau
as a special protection area under Article 4.1 of Directive
79/409/EEC, but has also reminded them of the
obligations deriving from Directive 85/337/EEC on the
assessment of the impact of certain public and private
projects on the environment ( [2] ). It will be keeping a close
eye on developments.

(') OJNoL 103,25.4. 1979.
O OJNoL 175,5.7. 1985.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2186/90

by Sir James Scott-Hopkins (ED)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(4 October 1990)_

(91/C 70/61)

_Subject:_ Advertising of consumer products

When does the European Commission intend to bring
forward its new proposals to restrict the advertising of
certain consumer products? Does it appreciate that were it
to propose the adoption of the most restrictive national
standards — such as the Greek ban on the television

advertising of children's toys — its proposals would be
greeted with derision, as well as great anger, in the UK?

Answer given by Mr Van Miert
on behalf of the Commission

_(20 November 1990)_

At present there are only two general measures in force, at
Community level, on the advertising of consumer
products. The first is Council Directive 84/450/EEC _(_ _[l]_ _)_
concerning misleading advertising which defines the
concept of misleading advertising and adopts minimum
provisions to ensure that effective means exist in all
Member States for the control of misleading advertising.
The second measure is Council Directive 89/552/EEC _(_ _[z]_ _)_
concerning the pursuit of television broadcasting
activities, which establishes minimum rules in order to
avoid unfair advertising in the field of television
broadcasting.

Specific sectors or products, such as the tobacco industry,
foodstuffs and medicaments, are either already subject to
specific regulation of advertising, by means of sectoral
rules, or soon will be.

No C 70/34 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 3. 91

Except as regards comparative advertising, the
Commission has no plans to make new proposals on the
advertising of consumer goods.

(') OJNoL250, 19.9. 1984.
O OJNoL298, 17. 10. 1989.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2194/90

by Mrs Mary Banotti (PPE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(4 October 1990)_

(91/C 70/62)

_Subject:_ Birds Directive 79/409/EEC

Does the Commission believe that the implementation of
the Birds Directive 79/409/EEC (') in Ireland is
adequate.

If the Commission is not satisfied, what actions is it taking
to ensure proper implementation of the Directive in
Ireland?

(*) OJNoL 103,25.4. 1979, p. 1.

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

_(13 December 1990)_

As at present informed, the Commission considers that
there are inadequacies in Ireland's implementation of
Article 4 (classification and safeguarding of special
protection areas) and Article 9 (Derogations) of Directive
79/409/EEC on the conservation of wild birds.

In regard to Article 4, the Commission is taking
appropriate steps to inform Ireland of its position, with a
view to securing full and proper implementation.

So far as Articles 9 is concerned, Ireland has replied to a
reasoned opinion, and proceedings are continuing.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2215/90

by Mr Anthony Simpson (ED)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(4 October 1990)_

(91/C 70/63)

_Subject:_ Fire safety in vehicles

Can the European Commission indicate when it will be
able to publish its proposals for fire safety in automobiles,

upon which subject it has been in discussion with the
Member States since 1986, with particular reference to
improving safety standards for the protection of fuel
tanks, and also the flammability of materials used in
vehicles?

Answer given by Mr Bangemann
on behalf of the Commission

_(22 November 1990)_

The Commission plans to submit a draft Directive on
flammability of materials used in certain buses and
coaches, fitting within the framework of Directive
70/156/EEC related to motor vehicles and their
trailers ( [l] ), to the Council before the end of 1990. The
technical contents of an additional Commission directive

relating to the safety of fuel tanks is being prepared in
collaboration with experts from the Member States and
industry and should be completed in early 1991.

(') OJ No L 42, 23. 2. 1970.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2272/90

by Mr Gerardo Fernandez-Albor (PPE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(15 October 1990)_

(91/C 70/64)

_Subject:_ Oil pollution on the Costa del Sol (Spain)

The collision between the Norwegian ship 'Hesperus' and
the Cypriot freighter 'Sea Spirit' in the Straits of Gibraltar
on 2 August this year caused a real disaster for the Spanish
tourist area, the Costa del Sol, where the beaches have
been covered by an oil slick from the seven thousand
tonnes of oil spilt by the Cypriot freighter in the collision.

Although the Spanish authorities dispatched their
anti-pollution tug to the area, it has not proved
sufficiently effective, and the tourists who have visited the
Costa del Sol, since the accident, have ended up virtually
covered in oil.

Does not the Commission think it would be appropriate
to consider setting up a body to coordinate all available
resources in this field in the various Member countries in

order to deal more quickly and more efficiently with
accidents such as the one in the Straits of Gibraltar, the
unfortunate consequences of which could have been
alleviated, had such coordination existed and therefore a
more concerted effort been made to prevent the oil slick
reaching the Costa del Sol?

18. 3. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 70/35

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

_(16 November 1990)_

For the purpose of combating accidental pollution at sea,
the Commission has developed a Community action plan
which contains, inter alia, the Community Information
System, Task Force and Urgent Pollution Alert Section.

The Community Information System for the control and
reduction of pollution caused by the spillage of
hydrocarbons and other harmful substances at sea
contains an inventory of resources for intervention in the
event of a spillage at sea, including a list of qualified

experts.

The purpose of this inventory is to provide information
on resources available in the Community for the possible
use of any Member States on the conditions agreed
between the respective authorities dealing with the

emergency.

In order to coordinate the actions of the EEC Task Force,
an 'EEC Urgent Pollution Alert Section' has been
established which operates 24 hours a day.

The Task Force services do not replace the governments
in combating pollution at sea. The competent authority of
the concerned government can however request, through
the EEC Urgent Pollution Alert Section, assistance from
other Member States and/or the Task Force itself.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2276/90

by Mr Alonso Puerta (GUE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(15 October 1990)_

(91/C 70/65)

_Subject:_ 'Barranco da Loba' (La Coruna — Spain)

'Barranco da Loba', near the town of Aranga (La
Coruna), is one of the last unspoilt areas in Galicia. There
are plans to build a small hydroelectric power station on
the River Mandeo which runs through this area. This
poses a serious threat to the ecosystem of this area, which
is home to wolves, otters and other unusual species.

1. What steps can the Commission take, in conjunction
with the relevant authorities, to ensure that no
irreparable damage is done to this ecologically
valuable area?

2. What can the Commission do to ensure that

Community legislation on the environment is properly
implemented?

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

_(13 December 1990)_

1. The types of project referred to by the Honourable
Member are only subjected to a prior assessment of their
environmental impact (Directive 85/337/EEC) (') where
that impact is likely to be significant. However, since
Spain has designated the Mandeo river as requiring
protection or improvement in order to be able to support
fish of the Salmonides species (Directive
78/659/EEC) ( [2] ), it is obvious that an assessment of this
type should precede any authorization if the water quality
aims set out in that Directive are to be achieved.

2. The Commission is paying close attention to the
implementation of Community environmental law and, in
several of the cases laid before it, has been induced to use
the procedure provided for in Article 169 of the EEC
Treaty.

(') OJNoL 175,5.7. 1985.
O OJNoL222, 14. 8.1978.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2302/90

by Mr Virginio Bettini (V)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(15 October 1990)_

(91/C 70/66)

_Subject:_ Energy and the environment

Regarding the Community's environmental policy and the
transparency of energy costs — including, of course,
those incurred to the environment — has the Commission

considered the effects of the sludge, inert gases, and
gypsum produced in the process of extracting flue gases in
coal-fired power-stations fitted with FGD systems?

How does it intend to exploit the advantages inherent in
more widespread use of clean coal-firing technologies
such as fluidized beds and controlled gasification at
specific coalfields?

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

_(20 November 1990)_

The Commission itself has not carried out a study of the
waste products discharged by flue-gas desulphurization
systems.

The Commission has been promoting technologies for the
non-polluting use of coal for many years. Under
Article 55 of the ECSC Treaty, the Commission is

No C 70/36 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 3. 91

managing a coal research programme of approximately
ECU 30 to 70 million per year, part of which is allocated
to the use of coal. Under the Energy Demonstration
Programme (1978—1989), ECU 303 million was spent on
new technologies for the non-polluting use of coal. This
work will be continued in accordance with new criteria

placing emphasis on the application of new technologies
under the Thermie programme (Council Regulation
(EEC) No 2008/90), which came into force recently (').

Under its R & D programme JOULE, the Commission is
financing research in the field of pressurized and
atmospheric fluidized bed combined cycles, gasification
combined cycles and afterburner combined cycles ( [2] ).

The overall aim of this part of the programme is to
develop advanced processes for the production of energy
from solid fuels which are more efficient and less harmful

to the environment.

The Commission is investing approximately ECU 15
million in this part of the programme, which will last until
1992, bringing the total level of investment in this type of
research to some ECU 30 million, since the Commission is
providing up to a maximum of 50 _%_ of the costs of
research.

For the time being, there is no better technology available
to remove sulphur compounds from the flue gases of
coal-fired power stations than flue-gas desulphurization
(FGD), which converts gaseous sulphur compounds into

gypsum.

(') OJNoL 185, 17.7. 199C.
O OJNoL98, 11.4. 1989.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2311/90

by Mr Karl von Wogau (PPE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(_ 7 5 _October 1990)_

(91/C 70/67)

_Subject:_ Standard telephone card system

1. As part of the work to complete the internal market,
having particular regard to the needs of a 'People's
Europe', will the Commission propose legislation with a
view to the introduction of a standard telephone card
system?

2. What is the Commission's assessment of the current

legal and technical position as regards the use of
telephone cards within the European Community?

3. Is the Commission aware that, almost without
exception, public telephones in Member States such as

France and Belgium can be operated only by means of the
appropriate telephone cards, which are not valid outside
the country concerned?

Answer given by Mr Pandolf i
on behalf of the Commission

_(6 December 1990)_

The Commission has noted that payment card technology
has evolved rapidly during the past five years and has
found diverse applications in many fields of economic and
social activity. The potential proliferation of cards for
various applications was alone sufficient justification for
the Commission to issue a standardization mandate

covering identification and payment cards in 1987.

New payment card technology has found several potential
applications in the telecommunications sector. Some of
these applications are currently or about to be exploited
by network operators in Member States, with a
consequent danger of diverse national standards being
developed. The development of specific European
standards for the telecommunications sector is therefore

considered to be urgently required.

Consequently, the Commission issued in 1989 a specific
standardization mandate covering payment cards for
telecommunications applications. The mandate includes
the drafting of a set of European Standards to cover
payment cards for the use of services available on the
public telecommunications networks via payphones and
other card operated terminals, including mobile
terminals. The standardization work covers bank credit

cards, bank debit cards and auto-billing cards (i.e. cards
which enable the personal or business telephone account
of card users to be automatically billed for calls made
anywhere in Europe), as well as prepayment cards.

The work will be carried out by the European
Standardization Committee (CEN) as prime contractor,
with the European Telecommunications Standards
Institute (ETSI) responsible for the project team. This
team will provide the resources for both technical and
administrative support to the ETSI Technical Committee
responsible for drafting the required European
Telecommunications Standards for payment cards.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2326/90

by Mr Yves Verwaerde (LDR)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(18 October 1990)_

(91/C 70/68)

_Subject:_ Mauritius: fraud in connection with certificates
EUR1

Three EEC investigators went to Mauritius in December
1989 to look into possible fraud in connection with

18. 3. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 70/37

certificates EUR 1 granted to the ACP countries under
the Lome agreements.

The local press has spoken of fraud in the textile sector in
the case of products, probably from China, which had
only passed through Mauritius in transit without meeting
all the requirements for industrial processing.

The same sources referred to an influential businessman

of French origin who had taken Mauritian nationality and
was said to be behind the fraudulent operations in
question.

What were the conclusions of the investigation?

Has any fraud been committed? If so, what losses has the
Community incurred as a result?

Have any sanctions been taken against those responsible
and have new checks been introduced?

Answer given by Mr Delors
on behalf of the Commission

_(12 November 1990)_

The team of investigators referred to by the Honourable
Member went to Mauritius in order to verify, with the
assistance of the Mauritian authorities, the origin of
textile items imported into the Community under the
special terms granted to ACP countries.

The fraud uncovered in the course of their inquiries
related to 144 consignments consisting either of products
originating in various Asian countries imported into
Mauritius and re-exported without further processing or
of products manufactured in Mauritius from fabrics
imported from other countries.

On the basis of the results of this visit, the Member States
concerned have taken the appropriate steps to recover the
duties evaded and to prosecute the offenders. However,
the extent of the losses incurred cannot be ascertained

precisely until the current investigations are completed
given that the team's inquiries led more recently to the
discovery of 126 other fraudulent operations of the same
kind which are being proceeded against in the Member
States.

In order to avoid a repetition of such frauds, the
Mauritian authorities, which are continuing to cooperate
with the Commission in these investigations, have made
certain adjustments to the system of issuing EUR 1
certificates.

The Commission has supplied the Member States with the
information they need to analyse textile imports and
thereby improve their verification procedures.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2343/90

by Mr Peter Crampton (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(18 October 1990)_

(91/C 70/69)

_Subject:_ Rehabilitation schemes for ex-prisoners

Does the Commission have any information on the
rehabilitation schemes for ex-prisoners in each of the
European Community countries, and on how they are
funded? What are their success rates?

Does the Commission have any plans for the
harmonization of training and rehabilitation schemes in
the light of the post-1992 labour market?

Answer given by Mrs Papandreou
on behalf of the Commission

_(14 November 1990)_

(a) The Commission does not have the information
requested by the Honourable Member.

(b) The Commission does not have any such plans at
present.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2356/90

by Mrs Jessica Larive (LDR)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(18 October 1990)_

(91/C 70/70)

_Subject:_ EC-US cooperation in biotechnological research

On 7 September 1990 the Commission signed an
administrative agreement with the United States on
cooperation in biotechnological research. EC cooperation
in this area is subject to the BRIDGE programme which
admits only EFTA countries as third countries.

1. On what grounds does the Commission feel it is
authorized, having regard to Article 130 n of the
Treaty of Rome, to conclude such agreements?

2. Since there has been no Council decision pursuant to
Article 130 k, second paragraph, of the Treaty of
Rome, how are the results of the BRIDGE
programme to be protected?

No C 70/38 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 3. 91

Answer given by Mr Pandolfi
on behalf of the Commission

_(4_ _January 1991)_

The administrative agreement concluded on 7 September
1990 between the Commission of the European
Communities and the Government of the United States is

designed solely to increase mutual understanding of
biotechnology research activities and programmes in the
Community and the United States. There is no question
of American participation in the BRIDGE programme.

No confusion is possible with the agreement defined in
Article 8(1) and (2) of the Council Decision adopting the
BRIDGE programme, which allows non-member
countries to be associated wholly or partly with the
programme. The only findings liable to be passed on to
the United States will be those for general circulation.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2358/90

by Mr Jean-Pierre Raffarin (LDR)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(18 October 1990)_

(91/C 70/71)

_Subject:_ Classification of the bobwhite (Colinus
virginianus ridgwayi)

Since the bobwhite is found on Community territory, will
the Commission consider listing it in Annex II to
Directive 79/409/EEC on the conservation of wild

birds O?

(') OJNoL 103,25.4. 1979, p. 1.

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

_(7 December 1990)_

The Commission cannot contemplate classifying this
species in Annex II to Directive 79/409/EEC on the
conservation of wild birds.

As explained in report EUR 12835 containing
information on the application of Directive 79/409/EEC,
Colinus virginianus is not covered by the provisions of
that Directive.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2360/90

by Mr Jean-Pierre Raffarin (LDR)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(18 October 1990)_

(91/C 70/72)

_Subject:_ Community Customs Code

Will Member States be' entitled to maintain or create the

professions of customs official or customs agent when the
new Community Customs Code enters into force in
January 1993?

Answer given by Mrs Scrivener
on behalf of the Commission

_(20 November 1990)_

As the Commission sees it, a Community Customs Code
with a uniform set of rules implies that a trader will be
able to import goods anywhere in the Community in
accordance with the conditions that a single market
entails. So its proposal for a Regulation introducing that
Code is based on the assumption that the importer can
elect to be represented by another person for the purposes
of the customs declaration, in accordance with civil law
and without any other restrictions, in any Member State
of the Community.

In economic terms, it is essentially a matter of ensuring
that all Member States allow traders, if they so choose, to
be represented by an employee, by the haulier
transporting their goods, or by a person professionally
qualified to carry out customs clearance in a Member
State of the Community. That freedom is not
incompatible with the existence in the Member States of
professional customs agents. This is borne out by the fact
that such a profession has existed for some considerable
time in one Member State.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2372/90

by Mrs Caroline Jackson (ED)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(25 October 1990)_

(91/C 70/73)

_Subject:_ Regulation on substances that deplete the ozone
layer

Will the Commission submit a cost-impact assessment to
the European Parliament with regard to its proposal for a
regulation on substances that deplete the ozone layer
(COM(90)3final)?

lg 3 9i Official Journal of the European Communities No C 70/39

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

_(5 December 1990)_

The proposal of the Commission contained in COM(90)
3 final implements to a large extent at Community level
the amendment to the Montreal Protocol achieved in

London in June 1990.

The Commission's proposal differs from the Protocol
agreement only with respect to the phase-out date for
CFCs and carbon tetrachloride set for the year 2000 by
the Protocol Parties.

The Commission has proposed the end of 1997 instead of
the year 2000 in line with the position defended by the 12
Member States in London without, however, eventual

success.

For the purposes of a cost-impact assessment the
Commission based itself on two considerations:

1. The Economic Panel Report established by UNEP as
a basis for the vision of the Protocol. This report was
prepared by a panel chaired by the Commission
representing the Community. The report included in
its conclusions (pp. 140/141) the finding that:

'reducing the use of CFCs and halons could have
enormous beneficial impact on human health and the
environment... In attempting to evaluate this impact,
there are many issues associated with proper
evaluation procedures varying from one region of the
world to another and between people alive today and
generations to come. These issues make it inherently
difficult, if not impossible, to assign a monetary worth
to the harmful impact avoided as a result of reduced
CFC and halon use. Notwithstanding the problems of
quantifying the benefits, the basic conclusion is that
the monetary value of the benefits is undoubtedly
much greater than the costs of CFC and halon
reductions.'

A copy of this report, which has already been given to
the rapporteur of Parliament, Mr Alavanos, on this
subject, is being sent directly to the Honourable
Member and to Parliament's secretariat.

2. The Commission developed this proposal in close
cooperation with the producer and user industries of
the Community. The producer industry has
recognized the necessity of these actions and is
concentrating its efforts in the research and
development of the substitutes for ozone-depleting
substances. The user industries are, for the most part
(aerosols, foam plastics, refrigeration), cooperating
with the Commission in the context of three voluntary
agreements achieved to date and published as
Commission recommendations (') for reductions in

the use of CFCs that go beyond the targets fixed by
the Regulation in the short term.

(') Commission recommendations of 13 April 1989 with the
aerosol industry (89/349/EEQ and _17_ June 1990 with the
foam plastics industry (90/437/EEC) and the refrigeration
industry (90/438/EEC).

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2373/90

by Mrs Caroline Jackson (ED)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(25 October 1990)_

(91/C 70/74)

_Subject:_ Bathing water directive

Can the Commission explain why data on the
implementing of the bathing water directive
(76/160/EEC) O provided by a Member State at the
beginning of 1989 and relating to the situation in 1988, is
only published by the Commission in the middle of 1990,
by which time the Commission is in possession of the
figures for 1989?

( [l] ) OJNoL31,5.2. 1976,p. 1.

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

_(16 November 1990)_

Under Article 13 of Directive 76/160/EEC on the quality
of bathing water, Member States have to submit a
comprehensive report to the Commission at regular
intervals. The Commission then publishes this
information, with the prior assent of the Member State in
question, in the form of a general report.

To date the Commission has always waited for all the
information concerning all the Member States before
publishing this general report.

This is how the Commission came to publish the data for
1988 in June 1990, since the data had been received
between 21 April 1989 and 17 January 1990.

At the time of publication, on the other hand, the figures
for 1989 had only been received from two Member States.

This is why the Commission, which is aware of the
problems posed by a situation of this kind, suggested to
the Member States at a meeting on 19 September 1990
that they should use a computerized system of data
transmission. This should allow data to be published for
the previous year as from 1992. In the interim, it has been
agreed that in 1991 the Commission will publish the data

18. 3.91
No C 70/40 Official Journal of the European Communities

for 1989 and also all the data for 1990 that it has received

by 15 February 1991.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2376/90

by Mrs Sylvie Mayer (CG)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(25 October 1990)_

(91/C 70/75)

_Subject:_ Council Directive 79/409/EEC on the
conservation of wild birds

Article 9 of Council Directive 79/409/EEC of 2 April
1979 on the conservation of wild birds (') defines the
grounds and conditions for derogations from Articles 5,
6, 7 and 8. Article 9 (2) states that the derogations must
specify 'the conditions of risk and the circumstances of
time and place under which such derogations may be
granted'.

Can the Commission spell out what it means by the
concept of'risk'?

(') OJNoL 103,25.4. 1979, p. 1.

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

_(13 December 1990)_

The 'conditions of risk' mentioned in Article 9.2, third
indent are linked to the interests set out in Article 9.1 (a)
(public health and safety, air safety, crops, livestock,
forests, fisheries and water, flora and fauna protection).

Article 9.2 requires that _inter alia_ a derogation must
specify the concrete risks posed to these interests by the
species intended to be the subject of the derogation, as
well as indicating for how long and where the derogation
is to apply

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2390/90

by Mr Jose Valverde Lopez (PPE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(25 October 1990)_

(91/C 70/76)

_Subject:_ Checks on medicinal products in the EC

Article 39 (2) of Directive 75/319/EEC (*) set a time limit
for application of the provisions of the directive to all
proprietary medicinal products, and this time limit

expired in May of this year. Do all medicinal products in
all the Member States of the Community now comply
with the directive, and, if not, have proceedings for
non-compliance been initiated?

O OJ No L 147,9. 6. 1975, p. 13.

Answer given by Mr Bangemann
on behalf of the Commission

_(6 December 1990)_

On expiry of the time limit laid down in Directive
75/319/EEC, the Commission asked the Member States'
competent authorities to send it a report on the discharge
of their obligations pursuant to Article 39 (2) of that
Directive. No Member State has so far submitted a report.
It would seem that several Member States have not yet
quite completed the procedures involved.

The Commission intends to assess the steps taken by the
Member States within the Pharmaceutical Committee set

up under Directive 75/320/EEC.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2393/90

by Mr Alexander Langer, Mrs Birgit Cramon Daibler,
Mr Paul Staes, Mrs Claudia Roth, Mr Juan Bandres Molet,

Mr Eugenio Melandri and Mrs Hiltrud Breyer (V)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(25 October 1990)_

(91/C 70/77)

_Subject:_ 111 treatment of animals during religious fiestas in
Spain

Over 3 000 Spanish fiestas take place during which
animals are subjected to ill treatment. Bulls, donkeys,
geese, lambs, dogs and calves are tormented in the course
of these spectacles of collective sadism. A particularly
cruel event is the San Juan fiesta in Coria, involving the
coralling of a bull. This event occurs many times (two or
three times a day for a week) and involves a bull being
ill-treated by a mob, castrated, impaled and subjected to
every type of torment by entire sections of the population
of the town including mothers and children, in a climate
of hysteria and cruelty which make the entire event totally
irreconcilable with the values of a civilized country
belonging to the European Community.

Does not the Commission consider that steps should be
taken to assess the seriousness of these widespread
occurrences and that stern measures should be taken to

prevent any spectacles in which animals are subjected to
gratuitous sadism (also in view of the fact that such
dubious popular religious fiestas cannot fail to sew the

18. 3. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 70/41

seeds of violence and aggression in children and
adolescents who are involved and actively encouraged to
participate in acts of cruelty) and to promote 'suitable
animal protection legislation corresponding to the
sensibilities of the European public?

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

_(14 November 1990)_

The Commission would refer the Honourable Members

to its answer to Written Question No 712/90 by Mr
Verwaerde ( [1] ).

(') See page 5 of this Official Journal.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2395/90

by Mrs Ursula Schleicher (PPE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(25 October 1990)_

(91/C 70/78)

_Subject:_ Protection of natural habitats in Portugal —
endangered habitats in the Ria do Alvor

The Ria do Alvor area which is of particular significance
from the point of view of nature conservation is situated
in the Portuguese Algarve near the town of Portimao.

Although this area is of undeniable ecological importance
it currently enjoys no effective legal protection, for
example against the further extension of tourist
infrastructures and the resulting damage.

Can the Commission propose and hope to implement
measures for the purposes of nature conservation in the
Ria do Alvor? Is the Commission willing in principle to
promote environmental awareness projects in the Ria do
Alvor by word and deed?

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

_(19 December 1990)_

The Commission is fully aware of the need to protect
environmentally important areas throughout the
Community, notably those under threat from economic
development pressures. The significance of tourism in this
respect is particularly important and, as a consequence,

means whereby environmentally responsible tourism can
be developed and promoted are currently under
examination by the Commission; a communication to the
Council and Parliament on this subject will be
forthcoming.

With reference to the Ria do Alvor in particular, this area
has not, to date, been identified as being of Community
importance for nature conservation. It follows that any
potential Community involvement in the action proposed
in the question would first of all require further evidence
of its high conservation importance.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2400/90

by Mr Jean-Pierre Raffarin (LDR)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(25 October 1990)_

(91/C 70/79)

_Subject:_ Rural tourism in Europe

Does the programme of action for rural tourism in
Europe recently adopted by the Commission provide for
stronger measures at regional level in the Member States?

If' so, what type of aid could be provided by the
Commission for the most rural regions to help them to
define, create, develop and promote their potential in the
field of 'rural tourism'?

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

_(30 November 1990)_

The action programme to promote rural tourism in the
Community is designed to ensure that Community
initiatives in this field are consistent and to facilitate the

emergence of 'rural tourism' products. The measures to
be taken complement the activities carried out under the
structural Funds. They cover the entire territory of the
Community and will be implemented in conjunction with
those active at regional and European levels in rural
tourism (organizations, Member States' representatives,
associations, and the public and private sectors).

Community assistance to help rural areas devise, create,
develop and promote their 'rural tourism' products may
take the form of part-financing for pilot cooperation
projects among those engaged in rural tourism with a view
to designing, implementing and marketing diversified
products, involving the pooling of experience and the

No C 70/42 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 3. 91

transfer of best practice from certain rural areas to others
through the organization of seminars and study visits.

Support will be available for interregional cooperation
and for the interlinking of regions with common
rural-tourism projects.

The Commission is currently examining ways of
implementing the action programme.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2410/90

by Mr Jesus Cabezon Alonso (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(25 October 1990)_

(91/C 70/80)

_Subject:_ The destruction of the Montehano mountain in
Cantabria (Spain)

For a number of decades an undertaking has been
extracting dolomite from a quarry in the Escalante area
(Cantabria) of Spain on the basis of a concession granted
by the Spanish Government.

According to some of the local inhabitants, since the
dolomite deposits are scarce and of poor quality, these
activities have been replaced by the extraction of
aggregates for road construction, leading to a serious
deterioration of the Montehano mountain where the

quarry is situated. If the excavations continue, the
mountain will eventually be totally destroyed.

Will the Commission request further information from
the competent Spanish authorities to enable it to draw up
a report on this situation?

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

_(12 December 1990)_

Pursuant to Directive 85/337/EEC on the assessment of

the effects of certain public and private projects on the
environment ('), projects involving the extraction of
minerals such as dolomite shall undergo such an
assessment, if the Member State considers that the nature
of the project so requires it.

Article 3 of this Directive stipulates that the
environmental impact assessment should identify, in
particular, the effects of the project on the landscape.

According to the information provided in the Written
Question, however it would appear that extraction
commenced prior to the entry into force of the
Community Directive.

Without prejudice to any further information which the
Honourable Member may wish to submit to it, the
Commission does not therefore consider it appropriate at
this stage, to make representations to the Spanish
authorities or to draw up a report on this situation.

(') OJNoL 175,5.7. 1985.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2421/90

by Mrs Mireille Elmalan (CG)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(7 November 1990)_

(91/C 70/81)

_Subject:_ Reduction of VAT on technical aids for the blind
and partially sighted

Technical aids for the blind and partially sighted which
are essential for their social and professional integration
are subject to high levels of VAT. Does the Commission
intend to take measures to introduce a zero level of VAT

on all technical aids required by the blind and partially
sighted to help them overcome their handicap?

Answer given by Mrs Scrivener
on behalf of the Commission

_(6 December 1990)_

The Commission proposal on the approximation of VAT
rates reflected the general practice in the Member States
as regards the reduced rate (4—9 %).

Discussions on which products should be subject to the
reduced rate are under way in the Council. The case of
equipment for the handicapped will be given very careful
consideration in those discussions.

As regards zero-rating, this is regarded under Community
VAT legislation as a temporary measure which will
disappear with the abolition of tax frontiers.

However, the Commission has indicated (') that it would
be prepared to examine the maintenance, under certain
conditions, of zero-rating in those Member States where
it already applies.

(') COM(89)260.

18. 3. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 70/43

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2430/90

by Mr Ernest Glinne (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(7 November 1990)_

(91/C 70/82)

_Subject:_ The allocation to municipal budgets of parking
fines

In November 1989 the Urban Research and Action

Workshop (ARAU), 37 rue Henri Maus, 1000 Brussels,
submitted a radical proposal to the Belgian Minister of
Transport aimed at encouraging mayors and local police
forces to adopt a stricter attitude to road traffic offences:
namely, allocating parking fines to municipal budgets. Its
supporters claim that this proposal which is at present
being studied by a working party is not a straightforward
repressive measure since it takes into account special
situations like exceptionally large building sites.
Nevertheless, pavements, zebra crossings and bus stops
must be cleared in order to protect pedestrians and public
transport users. Measures must also be taken to ensure
that parking lots reserved for suppliers and building
SMUs, for instance, are kept clear.

This measure obviously concerns the authorities
responsible for public order, security and environmental
protection and each has a legitimate right to be consulted
on this matter. Does the Commission believe that this

proposal — combined with an increase in pedestrian
precincts and car parks on the outskirts of towns — will
help protect the urban environment?

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

_(11 December 1990)_

In June 1990 the Commission adopted a Green Paper on
the Urban Environment (') embodying the twofold
objective of combating the various nuisances (air
pollution, noise, etc.) to which city dwellers are subjected
and of promoting urban policy (i.e., organization of
urban structures and allocation of urban spaces). This
urban policy forms an integral part of an urban
environmental policy.

The proposal by the Urban Research and Action
Workshop (ARAU — Brussels), under which the
proceeds from parking fines would be allocated to
municipal budgets, can be regarded as synonymous with
the Green Paper proposal. Indeed, it is precisely such
instances of illegal parking that frequently place
difficulties in the way of pedestrians using public spaces
and reduce public transport to a state of paralysis.
However, by the very nature of the Treaties and, in
particular, the principle of subsidiarity, the Commission
cannot arrogate to itself responsibilities lying outside its

jurisdiction. All it could do, at best, would be to carry out
an in-depth examination of the ARAU proposal in the
context of the current round of consultations.

(') COM(218) final.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2450/90

by Mr Gerard Monnier-Besombes (V)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(7 November 1990)_

(91/C 70/83)

_Subject:_ Threats to the environment and public health in
the South Pacific

The _New Scientist of_ 1 September 1990 gives the results of
sampling carried out by Commander Cousteau in
Moruroa Lagoon showing a significant level of
contamination by Caesium 134.

Can the Commission confirm this and, if so, what are the
possible effects on the health of the local inhabitants
resulting from concentrations of this substance in food
chains?

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2527/90

by Mr Stephen Hughes (S)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(16 November 1990)_

(91/C 70/84)

_Subject:_ Nuclear testing in French Polynesia

In the light of the new scientific evidence published in the
report entitled 'Cesium-134 at Mururoa: Review of the
"Calypso" water samples' made available to the world
community in September 1990, could the Commission
state whether steps will be taken to investigate the health
and environmental aspects of French nuclear testing in
Polynesia in line with the Commission's responsibilities
outlined in the Euratom Treaty?

Joint answer to Written Questions

Nos 2450/90 and 2527/90

given by Mr Ripa di Meana
on behalf of the Commission

_(30 November 1990)_

The Commission has seen the report published by the
Cousteau Foundation in November 1988 on the sampling

No C 70/44 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 3. 91

carried out in Mururoa to which the Honourable

Members refer. The report indicates that the quantities of
Caesium 134 detected are not at all dangerous at present
(see page 50).

The information forwarded regularly to the Commission
by the French authorities under Article 36 of the Euratom
Treaty has not so far indicated that there is any
radiological risk to the population of French Polynesia
resulting from recurrent underground nuclear testing.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2736/90

byMrPolMarck(PPE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(10 December 1990)_

(91/C 70/85)

_Subject:_ Checks at a Spanish border post

A Belgian exporter was stopped at the La Jonquera
frontier post by Spanish customs officials and his load was
refused entry on the grounds that the egg whites lacked
consistency, which was established by opening 90 out of
340 400 eggs. This is not in accordance with current
Community standards as regards sampling numbers for
grading, nor is it in accordance with regulations for
testing the consistency of egg whites. The Spanish
customs officers did not communicate the reasons for

their decision as required under Regulation (EEC)
No 95/69 ('), amended by Regulation (EEC)
No 1943/85( [2] ), Article 19(1). '

Can the Commission give its views on the way this case
was handled and whether this attitude shows lack of

awareness, inefficiency or a tendency towards
protectionism?

Is the exporter entitled to appeal at Community level in
such cases?

(') OJNoL 13, 18. 1. 1969,p. 13.
_C)_ OJNoL 181, 13.7. 1985,p. 34.

Answer given by Mr Mac Sharry
on behalf of the Commission

_(23 January 1991)_

The Commission is collecting the information it needs to
answer the Honourable Member's questions.

It will inform him of its findings as soon as possible.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2776/90

by Mr Mihail Papayannakis (GUE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(13 December 1990)_

(91/C 70/86)

_Subject:_ Unsuitably located waste dump in the commune
of Petra on the island of Lesbos

A rubbish tip is in operation in an unsuitable location in
the commune of Petra on the island of Lesbos, without an
operating permit (investigation and authorization by the
medical officer of the prefecture) and despite the
existence of an opinion of the Ministry of the Aegean to
the effect that in three years it will have polluted all the
groundwater in the plain.

This rubbish tip is causing serious environmental
problems in the area as a result of the atmospheric
pollution produced by the incineration of plastics and
other substances with the production of offensive and
hazardous waste, and public health risks on account of its
proximity to Petra and its 'traditional' quarter, which, in
addition to the local population, annually receives many
Greek and foreign holiday-makers.

Since the site chosen as the rubbish dump contravenes
environmental protection requirements and Directive
75/442/EEC (') on waste and the directives on
atmospheric pollution, and on groundwater and marine
pollution, will the Commission state what specific action
it will be taking to persuade the Greek Government to
comply with the Community Directive on waste and to
have waste dumping sites selected after environmental
impact studies and in accordance with the provisions of
the specific directive?

O OJ No L 194, 25. 7. 1975, p. 47.

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

_(29 January 1991)_

The Commission would refer the Honourable Member to

the reply to his oral question H-1200/90, which it gave
during question time at Parliament's December 1990
part-session (').

(') Debates of the European Parliament No 3-397 (December
1990).

18. 3. 91 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 70/45

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2839/90

by Mrs Ursula Braun-Moser (PPE)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(17 December 1990)_

(91/C 70/87)

_Subject:_ Distortions of competition resulting from aid
granted by the French authorities with the
Commission's authorization

The massive subsidies granted by the French Government
for the projected American Allied Signal Production plant
in Longwy (about DM 62 million) has been authorized in
defiance of the thirteen-year old Code on Subsidies,
despite the fact that this will result in further excess
capacity in synthetic polyester fibres at a time when
European production capacity is not being fully utilized.
It has been calculated that this distortion of the market

will lead to between 1 000—2 000 job losses in the
Netherlands, Germany, Spain, Italy, Austria and
Switzerland.

What were the Commission's reasons for authorizing
national subsidies in this case, leading to disruption of the
market and distortion of competition, thereby failing to
respect the terms of the agreement previously concluded
with the European chemical fibre undertakings CIRFS?

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2892/90

by Mr Carles-Alfred Gasoliba i Bohm (LDR)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(3_ _January 1991)_

(91/C 70/88)

_Subject:_ New fibre factory in Longwy

It is estimated that the plan to build a new factory making
polyester fibres for industrial use in Longwy (France) will
have adverse effects on the whole of the sector in the

European Community, particularly as regards
employment.

Given that this project is receiving a large subsidy from
the French Government, what led the Commission to
accept the granting of this subsidy and not to apply the
relevant articles of the Treaty of Rome to prevent
distortions of competition?

Joint answer to Written Questions

Nos 2839/90 and 2892/90

given by Sir Leon Brittan
on behalf of the Commission

_(4 February 1991)_

The Commission would refer the Honourable Members

to the reply to oral question H-1245/90 by Mrs

Braun-Moser, which it gave during question time at
Parliament's December 1990 part-session (').

(') Debates of the European Parliament No 3-397 (December
1990).

WRITTEN QUESTION No 6/91

by Mrs Brigitte Ernst de la Graete (V)

to the Commission of the European Communities

_(1 February 1991)_

(91/C 70/89)

_Subject:_ Marketing of breast-milk substitutes

In 1986 the European Parliament debated the marketing
of breast-milk substitutes (COM(84) 703 final) and
adopted the amendments tabled by Mr Van der Lek (Doc.
A 2-16/86) and Mrs Castellina (Doc. A 2-20/86) aimed at
strengthening the draft directive.

How is it therefore possible that the proposal for a
directive (111/3712/90) does not incorporate the
amendments adopted by Parliament, viz:

1. a ban on advertising;

2. a ban on the free or low-cost provision of milk
substitutes in maternity clinics and hospitals;

3. regulations governing the promotion of breast-milk
substitutes, feeding bottles and teats;

4. compulsory indication of the minimum age stipulated
for the use of infant milks ?

Answer given by Mr Bangemann
on behalf of the Commission

_(1 February 1991)_

The Commission would refer the Honourable Member to

its answer to Written Question No 1771/90 by Mr
Gangoiti Llaguno (').

(') OJNoC35, 11.2. 1991,p. 45.