98/342/EC: Commission Decision of 14 May 1998 authorising the Member States to permit temporarily the marketing of linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) not satisfying the requirements of Council Directive 69/208/EEC

COMMISSION DECISION of 14 May 1998 authorising the Member States to permit temporarily the marketing of linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) not satisfying the requirements of Council Directive 69/208/EEC (98/342/EC)
THE COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES
,
Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Community,
Having regard to Council Directive 69/208/EEC of 30 June 1969 on the marketing of seed of oil and fibre plants (1), as last amended by Directive 96/72/EC (2), and in particular Article 16 thereof,
Having regard to the request submitted by Finland,
Whereas in Finland the production of seed of linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.), variety Helmi, satisfying the requirements of Directive 69/208/EEC in relation to minimum germination capacity has been insufficient in 1997 and is therefore not adequate to meet this country's needs; whereas this is an early variety (growing time in the applicant country 106 days) suitable for northern growing conditions and having grain with a very low chlorophyll content to be used for medicinal purposes;
Whereas it is not possible to cover this demand satisfactorily with seed from other Member States, or from third countries, satisfying all the requirements laid down in the said Directive;
Whereas Finland should therefore be authorised to permit for a period expiring on 30 June 1998 the marketing of seed of the abovementioned species subject to less stringent requirements;
Whereas, moreover, other Member States which are able to supply Finland with such seed not satisfying the requirements of the Directive should be authorised to permit the marketing of such seed;
Whereas the measures provided for in this Decision are in accordance with the opinion of the Standing Committee on Seeds and Propagating Material for Agriculture, Horticulture and Forestry,