CELEX: 52001PC0789(04)
Language: en
Date: 2001-12-27
Title: Proposal for a Council Regulation adapting the provisions relating to committees which assist the Commission in the exercise of its implementing powers laid down in Council instruments adopted in accordance with the consultation procedure (unanimity)

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52001PC0789(04)

Proposal for a Council Regulation adapting the provisions relating to committees which assist the Commission in the exercise of its implementing powers laid down in Council instruments adopted in accordance with the consultation procedure (unanimity)  /* COM/2001/0789 final - CNS 2001/0316 */  

Official Journal 075 E , 26/03/2002 P. 0448 - 0466

Proposal for a COUNCIL REGULATION adapting the provisions relating to committees which assist the Commission in the exercise of its implementing powers laid down in Council instruments adopted in accordance with the consultation procedure (unanimity)(presented by the Commission)EXPLANATORY MEMORANDUMCouncil Decision 1999/468/EC of 28 June 1999 laying down the procedures for the exercise of implementing powers conferred on the Commission [1] repealed Decision 87/373/EEC of 13 July 1987.[1]  OJ L 184, 17.7.1999, p. 23.Statement No 2 of the Council and of the Commission on Decision 1999/468/EC specifies that the Council and the Commission agree that the provisions relating to committees which assist the Commission in the exercise of its implementing powers, provided for in application of Decision 87/373/EEC, should be adapted in order to bring them into line with the provisions of Articles 3, 4 and 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC.The joint statement provides that procedures of type I, IIa, IIb, IIIa and IIIb should be automatically brought into line, whereas the amendment of the safeguard procedures should be done on a case-by-case basis.This Regulation does not affect either the substantive provisions of the amended legislative acts or the application of the latter.This Regulation, which aims to bring into line the legislative acts which establish the committees and the legislative acts which refer to these committees, does not affect the nature of the committees provided for by the basic act.This Regulation does not apply to the legislative acts which have already been brought into line by an act amending the basic act.The Regulation does not prejudice the Commission's proposals for legislative acts amending the basic act which have been submitted since 18 July 1999, the date of entry into force of Council Decision 1999/468/EC.This Regulation applies to legislative acts which are still in force when it enters into force.2001/0316 (CNS)Proposal for a COUNCIL REGULATION adapting the provisions relating to committees which assist the Commission in the exercise of its implementing powers laid down in Council instruments adopted in accordance with the consultation procedure (unanimity)THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Community, and in particular Articles 93, 94, 157, 269, 279 and 308 thereof,Having regard to the proposal from the Commission [2],[2]  OJ CHaving regard to the opinion of the European Parliament [3],[3]  OJ CHaving regard to the opinion of the Economic and Social Committee [4],[4]  OJ CHaving regard to the opinion of the Court of Auditors [5] concerning Council Regulation (EEC, Euratom) No 1553/89 of 29 May 1989 on the definitive uniform arrangements for the collection of own resources accruing from value added tax,[5]  OJ CWhereas:(1) Decision 1999/468/EC of 28 June 1999 laying down the procedures for the exercise of implementing powers conferred on the Commission [6] repealed Decision 87/373/EEC [7].[6]  OJ L 184, 17.7.1999, p. 23.[7]  OJ L 197, 18.7.1987, p. 33.(2) In accordance with the joint statement of the Council and of the Commission [8] on Decision 1999/468/EC, the provisions relating to committees which assist the Commission in the exercise of its implementing powers, provided for in application of Decision 87/373/EEC, should be adapted in order to bring them into line with the provisions of Articles 3, 4 and 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC.[8]  OJ C 203, 17.7.1999, p 1.(3) The aforesaid statement indicates the methods for adapting the committee procedures, which is automatic provided that this does not affect the nature of the committee provided for in the basic act.(4) The time limits set in the provisions to be adapted must remain in force. Wherever there is no specific time limit laid down for adopting the implementing measures, the time limit should be set at three months.(5) The provisions of the instruments providing for recourse to the type I committee procedure established by Decision 87/373/EEC should therefore be replaced by provisions referring to the advisory procedure laid down in Article 3 of Decision 1999/468/EC.(6) The provisions of the instruments providing for recourse to type IIa and IIb committee procedures established by Decision 87/373/EEC should be replaced by provisions referring to the management procedure provided for in Article 4 of Decision 1999/468/EC.(7) The provisions of the instruments providing for recourse to type IIIa and IIIb committee procedures established by Decision 87/373/EEC should be replaced by provisions referring to the regulatory procedure provided for in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC,HAS ADOPTED THIS REGULATION:Article 1With regard to the advisory procedure, the instruments listed in Annex I are amended in accordance with this Annex.Article 2With regard to the management procedure, the instruments listed in Annex II are amended in accordance with this Annex.Article 3With regard to the regulatory procedure, the instruments listed in Annex III are amended in accordance with this Annex.Article 4References to provisions of the instruments in the annexes are understood to be references to these provisions as amended by this Regulation.Article 5This Regulation shall enter into force on the 20th day following its publication in the Official Journal of the European Communities.This Regulation shall be binding in its entirety and directly applicable in all Member States.Done at Brussels, [...] For the Council The PresidentANNEX IAdvisory procedureList of amended instruments:1. Council Directive 86/594/EEC of 1 December 1986 on airborne noise emitted by household appliances (OJ L 344 of 6.12.1986, p. 24).Article 9(1) is replaced by the following:"1. Where a Member State or the Commission considers that the harmonised standards referred to in Article 8(1)(a) do not fully satisfy the requirements of Article 6, that Member State or the Commission shall bring the matter before the Standing Committee set up by Directive 83/189/EEC, hereinafter referred to as 'the Committee', setting out its reasons for doing so.Where reference is made to this paragraph, the advisory procedure laid down in Article 3 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.The Committee shall deliver an opinion as a matter of urgency.In the light of the Committee's opinion, the Commission shall notify the Member States whether or not the standards concerned should be withdrawn from the publications referred to in Article 8(1)(a)."2. Council Decision 87/95/EEC of 22 December 1986 on standardisation in the field of information technology and telecommunications (OJ L 36 of 7.2.1987, p. 31).Article 7(1) is replaced by the following:"1. An advisory committee, called the "senior officials group on standardisation in the field of information technology", shall assist the Commission in its pursuance of the objectives and its management of the activities laid down by this Decision. For telecommunications issues the competent committee is the "senior officials group for telecommunications" provided for in Article 5 of Directive 86/361/EEC.Where reference is made to this paragraph, the advisory procedure laid down in Article 3 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof."3. Council Directive 87/404/EEC of 25 June 1987 on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to simple pressure vessels (OJ L 220 of 8.8.1987, p. 48).Article 6 is replaced by the following:"Article 6(1) Where a Member State or the Commission considers that the harmonised standards referred to in Article 5(1) do not entirely meet the essential requirements referred to in Article 3, the Commission or the Member State concerned shall bring the matter before the Standing Committee set up under Directive 83/189/EEC, hereinafter referred to as 'the Committee', giving the reasons therefor. Where reference is made to this paragraph, the advisory procedure laid down in Article 3 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof. The Committee shall deliver an opinion without delay.(2) In the light of the Committee's opinion, the Commission shall inform the Member States whether or not it is necessary to withdraw those standards from the publications referred to in Article 5(1)."4. Council Regulation (EEC, Euratom) No 1553/89 of 29 May 1989 on the definitive uniform arrangements for the collection of own resources accruing from value added tax (OJ L 155 of 7.6.1989, p. 9).Article 13 is replaced by the following:"Article 13(1) The committee referred to in Article 20 of Regulation (EEC, Euratom, ECSC) No 1550/2000 (12), hereinafter referred to as "the committee", shall regularly examine, on the initiative of the Commission or at the request of a Member State, problems arising out of application of this Regulation.(2) Member States applying for the authorisation provided for in Article 4 (4) or Article 6 (3) shall refer their application to the Commission as soon as possible and not later than 30 April of the financial year from which the authorisation is to apply. The Commission representative shall submit a draft decision to the committee as soon as possible and not later than 31 December of the financial year.(3) On the initiative of the Commission or at the request of a Member State, the committee shall examine the solutions referred to in Article 10. If the committee's examination reveals differences of opinion as to the solutions envisaged, the Commission representative shall submit a draft decision to the committee as soon as possible and not later than 31 December of the financial year from which the solution is to apply.(4) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the advisory procedure laid down in Article 3 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(5) No later than 60 days after the committee has delivered its opinion, the Commission shall adopt a Decision, which it shall communicate to the Member States."5. Council Decision 1999/311/EC of 29 April 1999 adopting the third phase of the trans-European cooperation scheme for higher education (Tempus III) (2000-2006) (OJ L 120 of 8.5.1999, p. 30).Article 7(6) is replaced by the following:"6. In addition, the Commission may consult the committee on any other matter concerning the implementation of Tempus III, including the annual report. Where reference is made to this paragraph, the advisory procedure laid down in Article 3 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof."ANNEX IIManagement procedureList of amended instruments:1. Council Directive 66/403/EEC of 14 June 1966 on the marketing of seed potatoes (OJ B 125 of 11.7.1966, p. 2320).Article 19 is replaced by the following:"Article 19(1) The Commission shall be assisted by the Standing Committee on Seeds and Propagating Material for Agriculture, Horticulture and Forestry set up by the Council Decision of 14 June 1966 (1), hereinafter referred to as the 'Committee', composed of representatives of the Member States and chaired by the representative of the Commission. Where reference is made to the procedure laid down in this Article, the management procedure laid down in Article 4 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 4(3) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be one month."2. Council Directive 66/404/EEC of 14 June 1966 on the marketing of forest reproductive material (OJ B 125 of 11.07.1966, p. 2326).Article 17 is replaced by the following:"Article 17(1) The Commission shall be assisted by the Standing Committee on Seeds and Propagating Material for Agriculture, Horticulture and Forestry set up by the Council Decision of 14 June 1966 (1), hereinafter referred to as the 'Committee', composed of representatives of the Member States and chaired by the representative of the Commission. Where reference is made to the procedure laid down in this Article, the management procedure laid down in Article 4 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 4(3) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be one month."3. Council Directive 69/208/EEC of 30 June 1969 on the marketing of seed of oil and fibre plants (OJ L 169 of 10.7.1969, p. 3).Article 20 is replaced by the following:"Article 20(1) The Commission shall be assisted by the Standing Committee on Seeds and Propagating Material for Agriculture, Horticulture and Forestry set up by the Council Decision of 14 June 1966 (1), hereinafter referred to as the 'Committee', composed of representatives of the Member States and chaired by the representative of the Commission. Where reference is made to the procedure laid down in this Article, the management procedure laid down in Article 4 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 4(3) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be one month."4. Council Directive 70/457/EEC of 29 September 1970 on the common catalogue of varieties of agricultural plant species (OJ L 225 of 12.10.1970, p. 1).Article 23 is replaced by the following:"Article 23(1) The Commission shall be assisted by the Standing Committee on Seeds and Propagating Material for Agriculture, Horticulture and Forestry set up by the Council Decision of 14 June 1966 (1), hereinafter referred to as the 'Committee', composed of representatives of the Member States and chaired by the representative of the Commission. Where reference is made to the procedure laid down in this Article, the management procedure laid down in Article 4 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 4(3) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be one month."5. Council Directive 71/161/EEC of 30 March 1971 on external quality standards for forest reproductive material marketed within the Community (OJ L 87 of 17.4.1971, p. 14). Article 18 is replaced by the following:"Article 18(1) The Commission shall be assisted by the Standing Committee on Seeds and Propagating Material for Agriculture, Horticulture and Forestry set up by the Council Decision of 14 June 1966 (1), hereinafter referred to as the 'Committee', composed of representatives of the Member States and chaired by the representative of the Commission. Where reference is made to the procedure laid down in this Article, the management procedure laid down in Article 4 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 4(3) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be one month."6. Council Regulation (EEC) No 3906/89 of 18 December 1989 on economic aid to the Republic of Hungary and the Polish People's Republic (OJ L 375 of 23.12.1989, p. 11).Article 9 is replaced by the following:"Article 9(1) A committee on aid for economic restructuring in the countries referred to in Article 1 is hereby set up at the Commission, composed of representatives of the Member States and chaired by the representative of the Commission. An observer from the European Investment Bank shall take part in the Committee's proceedings with regard to questions concerning the Bank.(2) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the management procedure laid down in Article 4 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(3) The period provided for in Article 4(3) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be six weeks."7. Council Decision 1999/21/EC, Euratom of 14 December 1998 adopting a multiannual framework programme for actions in the energy sector (1998-2002) and connected measures (OJ L 7 of 13.1.1999, p. 16).Article 4(2) is replaced by the following:"2. The Commission shall be assisted in the management of this framework programme by a committee composed of representatives of the Member States and chaired by the representative of the Commission.Where reference is made to this paragraph, the management procedure laid down in Article 4 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.The period provided for in Article 4(3) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."8. Council Decision 1999/311/EC of 29 April 1999 adopting the third phase of the trans-European cooperation scheme for higher education (Tempus III) (2000-2006) (OJ L 120 of 8.5.1999, p. 30).Article 7(4) and (5) is replaced by the following:"4. Where reference is made to this paragraph, the management procedure laid down in Article 4 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.5. The period provided for in Article 4(3) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be one month."ANNEX IIIRegulatory procedureList of amended instruments:1. Council Directive 67/548/EEC of 27 June 1967 on the approximation of the laws, regulations and administrative provisions relating to the classification, packaging and labelling of dangerous substances (OJ B 196 of 16.8.1967, p. 1).Article 29 is replaced by the following:"Article 29Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof. The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."2. Council Directive 70/156/EEC of 6 February 1970 on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to the type approval of motor vehicles and their trailers (OJ L 42 of 23.2.1970, p. 1).Article 13 is replaced by the following:"Article 13(1) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."3. Council Directive 70/373/EEC of 20 July 1970 on the introduction of Community methods of sampling and analysis for the official control of feeding-stuffs (OJ L 170 of 3.8.1970, p. 2).Article 3 is replaced by the following:"Article 3(1) The Commission shall be assisted by the Standing Committee on Feedingstuffs instituted by the Council Decision of 20 July 1970 (1), composed of representatives of the Member States and chaired by the representative of the Commission.(2) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(3) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."4. Council Directive 71/118/EEC of 15 February 1971 on health problems affecting trade in fresh poultrymeat (OJ L055 of 8.3.1971, p. 23).Article 12(2), (3) and (4) is replaced by the following:"2. Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof. 3. The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be 15 days."5. Council Directive 71/316/EEC of 26 July 1971 on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to common provisions for both measuring instruments and methods of metrological control (OJ L 202 of 6.9.1971, p. 1).Article 18 is replaced by the following:"Article 18(1) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."6. Council Directive 72/461/EEC of 12 December 1972 on health problems affecting intra-Community trade in fresh meat (OJ L 302 of 31.12.1972, p. 24).Article 9 is replaced by the following:"Article 9(1) The Commission shall be assisted by the Standing Veterinary Committee instituted by the Council Decision of 15 October 1968, composed of representatives of the Member States and chaired by the representative of the Commission.(2) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(3) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be 15 days."7. Council Directive 72/462/EEC of 12 December 1972 on health and veterinary inspection problems upon importation of bovine animals and swine and fresh meat from third countries (OJ L 302 of 31.12.1972, p. 28).Article 29 is replaced by the following:"Article 29(1) The Commission shall be assisted by the Standing Veterinary Committee instituted by the Council Decision of 15 October 1968, hereinafter referred to as "the Committee", composed of representatives of the Member States and chaired by the representative of the Commission.(2) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(3) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."Article 30 is replaced by the following:"Article 30(1) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be 15 days."8. Council Directive 73/361/EEC of 19 November 1973 on the approximation of the laws, regulations and administrative provisions of the Member States relating to the certification and marking of wire-ropes, chains and hooks (OJ L 335 of 5.12.1973, p. 51).Article 5 is replaced by the following:"Article 5(1) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."9. Council Directive 73/404/EEC of 22 November 1973 on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to detergents (OJ L 347 of 17.12.1973, p. 51).Article 7 b is replaced by the following:"Article 7 b(1) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."10. Council Directive 73/437/EEC of 11 December 1973 on the approximation of the laws of the Member States concerning certain sugars intended for human consumption (OJ L 356 of 27.12.1973, p. 71).Article 12 is replaced by the following:"Article 12(1) The Commission shall be assisted by the Standing Committee on Foodstuffs instituted by the Council Decision of 13 November 1969, composed of representatives of the Member States and chaired by the representative of the Commission.(2) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(3) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."11. Council Directive 74/150/EEC of 4 March 1974 on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to the type-approval of wheeled agricultural or forestry tractors (OJ L 84 of 28.3.1974, p. 10).Article 13 is replaced by the following:"Article 13(1) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."12. Council Directive 74/409/EEC of 22 July 1974 on the harmonisation of the laws of the Member States relating to honey (OJ L 221 of 12.8.1974, p. 10).Article 10 is replaced by the following:"Article 10(1) The Commission shall be assisted by the Standing Committee on Foodstuffs instituted by the Council Decision of 13 November 1969, composed of representatives of the Member States and chaired by the representative of the Commission.(2) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(3) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."13. Council Directive 75/324/EEC of 20 May 1975 on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to aerosol dispensers (OJ L 147 of 9.6.1975, p. 40).Article 7 is replaced by the following:"Article 7(1) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."14. Council Directive 76/895/EEC of 23 November 1976 relating to the fixing of maximum levels for pesticide residues in and on fruit and vegetables (OJ L 340 of 9.12.1976 p. 26).In Article 7, paragraphs 2 to 5 are replaced by the following: "2. In the cases referred to in Article 6(2), the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof. The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."In Article 8, paragraphs 2 to 5 are replaced by the following: "2. In the cases referred to in Article 6(2), the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof. The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be 15 days."Article 8 a is replaced by the following:"Article 8 aIn the cases referred to in Article 6(2), the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof. The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."15. Council Directive 76/160/EEC of 8 December 1975 concerning the quality of bathing water (OJ L 31 of 5.2.1976, p. 1).Article 11 is replaced by the following:"Article 11(1) Where reference is made to the procedure laid down in this Article, the chairman shall refer the matter to the committee either on his own initiative or at the request of a representative of a Member State.(2) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof. The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."16. Council Directive 76/116/EEC of 18 December 1975 on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to fertilisers (OJ L 24 of 30.1.1976, p. 21).Article 11 is replaced by the following:"Article 11(1) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."17. Council Directive 76/117/EEC of 18 December 1975 on the approximation of the laws of the Member States concerning electrical equipment for use in potentially explosive atmospheres (OJ L 24 of 30.1.1976, p. 45).Article 7 is replaced by the following:"Article 7(1) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."18. Council Directive 76/118/EEC of 18 December 1975 on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to certain partly or wholly dehydrated preserved milk for human consumption (OJ L 24 of 30.1.1976, p. 49).Article 12 is replaced by the following:"Article 12(1) The Commission shall be assisted by the Standing Committee on Foodstuffs instituted by the Council Decision of 13 November 1969, composed of representatives of the Member States and chaired by the representative of the Commission.(2) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(3) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."19. Council Directive 76/621/EEC of 20 July 1976 relating to the fixing of the maximum level of erucic acid in oils and fats intended as such for human consumption and in foodstuffs containing added oils or fats (OJ L 202 of 28.7.1976, p. 35).Article 5 is replaced by the following:"Article 5(1) The Commission shall be assisted by the Standing Committee on Foodstuffs instituted by the Council Decision of 13 November 1969, composed of representatives of the Member States and chaired by the representative of the Commission.(2) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(3) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."20. Council Directive 76/767/EEC of 27 July 1976 on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to common provisions for pressure vessels and methods of inspecting them (OJ L 262 of 27.9.1976, p. 153).Article 20 is replaced by the following:"Article 20(1) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."21. Council Directive 77/96/EEC of 21 December 1976 on the examination for trichinae (trichinella spiralis) upon importation from third countries of fresh meat derived from domestic swine (OJ L 26 of 31.1.1977, p. 67).Article 9 is replaced by the following:"Article 9(1) The Commission shall be assisted by the Standing Veterinary Committee instituted by the Council Decision of 15 October 1968, composed of representatives of the Member States and chaired by the representative of the Commission.(2) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(3) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."22. Council Directive 77/99/EEC of 21 December 1976 on health problems affecting intra-Community trade in meat products (OJ L 26 of 31.1.1977, p. 85).Article 20(2) and (3) is replaced by the following:"2. Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof. 3. The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be 15 days."23. Council Directive 77/504/EEC of 25 July 1977 on pure-bred breeding animals of the bovine species (OJ L 206 of 12.8.1977, p. 8).Article 8 is replaced by the following:"Article 8(1) The Commission shall be assisted by the Standing Committee on Zootechnics instituted by Decision 77/505/EEC, composed of representatives of the Member States and chaired by the representative of the Commission.(2) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(3) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."24. Council Decision 77/795/EEC of 12 December 1977 establishing a common procedure for the exchange of information on the quality of surface fresh water in the Community (OJ L 334 of 24.12.1977, p. 29).Article 8 is replaced by the following:"Article 8(1) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."25. Council Directive 78/25/EEC of 12 December 1977 on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to the colouring matters which may be added to medicinal products (OJ L 11 of 14.1.1978, p. 18).Article 6 is replaced by the following:"Article 6(1) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."26. Council Directive 78/659/EEC of 18 July 1978 on the quality of fresh waters needing protection or improvement in order to support fish life (OJ L 222 of 14.8.1978, p. 1).Article 14 is replaced by the following:"Article 14(1) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."27. Council Directive 79/117/EEC of 21 December 1978 prohibiting the placing on the market and use of plant protection products containing certain active substances (OJ L 33 of 8.2.1979, p. 36).Article 8 is replaced by the following:"Article 8(1) Where reference is made to the procedure laid down in this Article, the matter shall be referred without delay to the Standing Committee on Plant Health, hereinafter referred to as the 'Committee', by its chairman, either on his own initiative or at the request of a Member State.(2) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(3) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."28. Council Directive 79/373/EEC of 2 April 1979 on the marketing of compound feedingstuffs (OJ L 86 of 6.4.1979, p. 30).Article 13 is replaced by the following:"Article 13(1) The Commission shall be assisted by the Standing Committee on Feedingstuffs instituted by the Council Decision of 20 July 1970 (1), composed of representatives of the Member States and chaired by the representative of the Commission.(2) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(3) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."29. Council Directive 79/409/EEC of 2 April 1979 on the conservation of wild birds (OJ L 103 of 25.4.1979, p. 1).Article 17 is replaced by the following:"Article 17(1) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."30. Council Directive 79/831/EEC of 18 September 1979 amending for the sixth time Directive 67/548/EEC on the approximation of the laws, regulations and administrative provisions relating to the classification, packaging and labelling of dangerous substances (OJ L 259 of 15.10.1979, p. 10).Article 21 is replaced by the following:"Article 21(1) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."31. Council Directive 79/869/EEC of 9 October 1979 concerning the methods of measurement and frequencies of sampling and analysis of surface water intended for the abstraction of drinking water in the Member States (OJ L 271 of 29.10.1979, p. 44).Article 11 is replaced by the following:"Article 11(1) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."32. Council Directive 80/215/EEC of 22 January 1980 on animal health problems affecting intra-Community trade in meat products (OJ L 47 of 21.2.1980, p. 4).Article 8 is replaced by the following:"Article 8(1) The Commission shall be assisted by the Standing Veterinary Committee instituted by the Council Decision of 15 October 1968, composed of representatives of the Member States and chaired by the representative of the Commission.(2) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(3) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be 15 days."33. Council Directive 80/217/EEC of 22 January 1980 introducing Community measures for the control of classical swine fever (OJ L 47 of 21.2.1980, p. 11).Article 16 is replaced by the following:"Article 16(1) The Commission shall be assisted by the Standing Veterinary Committee instituted by the Council Decision of 15 October 1968, composed of representatives of the Member States and chaired by the representative of the Commission.(2) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(3) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."34. Council Directive 80/779/EEC of 15 July 1980 on air quality limit values and guide values for sulphur dioxide and suspended particulates (OJ L 229 of 30.8.1980, p. 30). Article 14 is replaced by the following:"Article 14(1) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."35. Council Directive 80/1107/EEC of 27 November 1980 on the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to chemical, physical and biological agents at work (OJ L 327 of 3.12.1980, p. 8).Article 10 is replaced by the following:"Article 10(1) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."36. Council Directive 82/130/EEC of 15 February 1982 on the approximation of the laws of the Member States concerning electrical equipment for use in potentially explosive atmospheres in mines susceptible to firedamp (OJ L 59 of 2.3.1982, p. 10).Article 7 is replaced by the following:"Article 7(1) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."37. Council Directive 82/883/EEC of 3 December 1982 on procedures for the surveillance and monitoring of environments concerned by waste from the titanium dioxide industry (OJ L 378 of 31.12.1982, p. 1).Article 11 is replaced by the following:"Article 11(1) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."38. Council Directive 82/884/EEC of 3 December 1982 on a limit value for lead in the air (OJ L 378 of 31.12.1982, p. 15).Article 11 is replaced by the following:"Article 11(1) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."39. Council Directive 82/894/EEC of 21 December 1982 on the notification of animal diseases within the Community (OJ L 378 of 31.12.1982 p.58).Article 6 is replaced by the following:"Article 6(1) The Commission shall be assisted by the Standing Veterinary Committee instituted by the Council Decision of 15 October 1968, composed of representatives of the Member States and chaired by the representative of the Commission.(2) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(3) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."40. Council Directive 83/417/EEC of 25 July 1983 on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to certain lactoproteins (caseins and caseinates) intended for human consumption (OJ L 237 of 26.8.1983, p. 25).Article 10 is replaced by the following:"Article 10(1) The Commission shall be assisted by the Standing Committee on Foodstuffs instituted by the Council Decision of 13 November 1969, composed of representatives of the Member States and chaired by the representative of the Commission.(2) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(3) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."41. Council Directive 84/532/EEC of 17 September 1984 on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to common provisions for construction plant and equipment (OJ L 300 of 19.11.1984, p. 111).Article 24 is replaced by the following:"Article 24(1) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."42. Council Directive 84/539/EEC of 17 September 1984 on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to electro-medical equipment used in human or veterinary medicine (OJ L 300 of 19.11.1984, p. 179).Article 6 is replaced by the following:"Article 6(1) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."43. Council Directive 85/203/EEC of 7 March 1985 on air quality standards for nitrogen dioxide (OJ L 87 of 27.3.1985, p. 1).Article 14 is replaced by the following:"Article 14(1) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."44. Council Directive 85/511/EEC of 18 November 1985 introducing Community measures for the control of foot-and-mouth disease (OJ L 315 of 26.11.1985, p. 11).Article 16 is replaced by the following:"Article 16(1) The Commission shall be assisted by the Standing Veterinary Committee instituted by Decision 68/361/EEC (1), hereinafter referred to as "the Committee", composed of representatives of the Member States and chaired by the representative of the Commission. (2) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(3) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be 15 days."Article 17 is replaced by the following:"Article 17(1) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."45. Council Directive 86/278/EEC of 12 June 1986 on the protection of the environment and in particular of the soil, when sewage sludge is used in agriculture (OJ L 181 of 4.7.1986, p. 6).Article 15 is replaced by the following:"Article 15(1) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."46. Council Directive 86/362/EEC of 24 July 1986 on the fixing of maximum levels for pesticide residues in and on cereals (OJ L 221 of 7.8.1986, p. 37). Articles 11 a and 11 b are replaced by the following:"Article 11aWhere reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof. The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months.Article 11 bWhere reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof. The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be 15 days."In Article 12, paragraphs 2, 3 and 4 are replaced by the following:"2. Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof. The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."47. Council Directive 86/363/EEC of 24 July 1986 on the fixing of maximum levels for pesticide residues in and on foodstuffs of animal origin (OJ L 221 of 7.8.1986, p. 43).Articles 11 a and 11 b are replaced by the following:"Article 11 aWhere reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof. The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months.Article 11 bWhere reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof. The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."In Article 12, paragraphs 2, 3 and 4 are replaced by the following:"2. Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof. The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."48. Council Regulation (EEC) No 3528/86 of 17 November 1986 on the protection of the Community's forests against atmospheric pollution (OJ L 326 of 21.11.1986, p. 2).Article 7 is replaced by the following:"Article 7(1) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."49. Council Directive 87/217/EEC of 19 March 1987 on the prevention and reduction of environmental pollution by asbestos (OJ L 85 of 28.3.1987, p. 40).Article 12 is replaced by the following:"Article 12(1) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."50. Council Decision 91/666/EEC of 11 December 1991 establishing Community reserves of foot-and-mouth disease vaccines (OJ L 368 of 31.12.1991, p. 21).Article 10 is replaced by the following:"Article 10(1) The Commission shall be assisted by the Standing Veterinary Committee instituted by Decision 68/361/EEC (1), composed of representatives of the Member States and chaired by the representative of the Commission.(2) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(3) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be 15 days."51. Council Directive 92/12/EEC of 25 February 1992 on the general arrangements for products subject to excise duty and on the holding, movement and monitoring of such products (OJ L 76 of 23.3.1992, p. 1).Article 24 is replaced by the following:"Article 24(1) The Commission shall be assisted by a "Committee on Excise Duties", composed of representatives of the Member States and chaired by the representative of the Commission. The committee shall draw up its rules of procedure.(2) The measures necessary for the application of Articles 5, 7, 15b, 18, 19 and 23 shall be adopted in accordance with the procedure laid down in paragraph 3.(3) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(4) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months.(5) In addition to the measures referred to in paragraph 2, the Committee shall examine the matters raised by its chairman, either on his own initiative or at the request of the representative of a Member State, concerning the application of Community provisions on excise duties."52. Council Regulation (EEC) No 443/92 of 25 February 1992 on financial and technical assistance to, and economic cooperation with, the developing countries in Asia and Latin America (OJ L 52 of 27.2.1992, p. 1).Article 15 is replaced by the following:"Article 15(1) The Commission shall administer the financial and technical assistance and the economic cooperation.(2) The Commission shall be assisted by a committee composed of representatives of the Member States and chaired by the representative of the Commission.(3) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(4) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be one month.(5) On a regular basis, at least once a year, the Commission shall send the Member States whatever information it has on known sectors, projects and operations which could be supported under this Regulation.(6) In addition, coordination between Community cooperation schemes and bilateral schemes undertaken by Member States shall be carried out in this committee, through an exchange of information."53. Council Regulation (EEC) No 2309/93 of 22 July 1993 laying down Community procedures for the authorisation and suspension of medicinal products for human and veterinary use and establishing a European Agency for the Evaluation of Medicinal Products (OJ L 214 of 24.8.1993, p. 1).Article 72 is replaced by the following:"Article 72(1) Where reference is made to the procedure laid down in this Article, the Commission shall be assisted by:- the Standing Committee on Medicinal Products for Human Use, in the case of matters relating to medicinal products for human use, and- the Standing Committee on Veterinary Medicinal Products, in the case of matters relating to veterinary medicinal products, composed of representatives of the Member States and chaired by the representative of the Commission.(2) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(3) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."Article 73 is replaced by the following:"Article 73(1) Where reference is made to the procedure laid down in this Article, the Commission shall be assisted by:- the Standing Committee on Medicinal Products for Human Use, in the case of matters relating to medicinal products for human use, and- the Standing Committee on Veterinary Medicinal Products, in the case of matters relating to veterinary medicinal products, composed of representatives of the Member States and chaired by the representative of the Commission.(2) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(3) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."54. Council Regulation (EC) No 40/94 of 20 December 1993 on the Community trade mark (OJ L 11 of 14.1.1994, p. 1).Article 141(2) is replaced by the following:"Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof. The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."55. Council Regulation (EC) No 2100/94 of 27 July 1994 on Community plant variety rights (OJ L 227 of 1.9.1994, p. 1).Article 115 is replaced by the following:"Article 115(1) The Commission shall be assisted by a committee composed of representatives of the Member States and chaired by the representative of the Commission.(2) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(3) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."56. Council Regulation (EC) No 2271/96 of 22 November 1996 protecting against the effects of the extra-territorial application of legislation adopted by a third country, and actions based thereon or resulting therefrom (OJ L 309 of 29.11.1996, p. 1).Article 8 is replaced by the following:"Article 8(1) For the purposes of the application of Article 7(b) and (c), the Commission shall be assisted by a committee composed of representatives of the Member States and chaired by the representative of the Commission.(2) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(3) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be two weeks."57. Council Regulation (EC) No 515/97 of 13 March 1997 on mutual assistance between the administrative authorities of the Member States and cooperation between the latter and the Commission to ensure the correct application of the law on customs and agricultural matters (OJ L 82 of 22.3.1997, p. 1).Article 43(1) and (2) is replaced by the following:(1) The Commission shall be assisted by a committee composed of representatives of the Member States and chaired by the representative of the Commission. (2) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof. The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."58. Council Decision 98/253/EC of 30 March 1998 adopting a multiannual Community programme to stimulate the establishment of the information society in Europe ("Information Society") (OJ L 107 of 7.4.1998, p. 10).Article 6 is replaced by the following:"Article 6(1) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(2) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."59. Council Regulation (EC) No 976/1999 of 29 April 1999 laying down the requirements for the implementation of Community operations, other than those of development cooperation, which, within the framework of Community cooperation policy, contribute to the general objective of developing and consolidating democracy and the rule of law and to that of respecting human rights and fundamental freedoms in third countries (OJ L 120 of 8.5.1999, p. 8).Article 14 is replaced by the following:"Article 14(1) The Commission shall be assisted by the committee, hereinafter referred to as the "Human Rights and Democracy Committee", instituted by Article 13 of Regulation (EC) 975/1999, composed of representatives of the Member States and chaired by the representative of the Commission.(2) Where reference is made to this paragraph, the regulatory procedure laid down in Article 5 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, in compliance with Article 7 thereof.(3) The period provided for in Article 5(6) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be three months."