18. 2. 80 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 41/1
I
(Information)
EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT
WRITTEN QUESTIONS WITH ANSWER
WRITTEN QUESTION No 297/79 by Mr Barry Seal, Mr Megahy and Mr Enright to the Commission of the European Communities (27 July 1979)
Subject: Textile industry within the Community
1. In the light of the working documents of December 1977, what progress has been made by the Commission in preparing a comprehensive strategic plan for the textile industry within the EEC?
2. As the forecast halt in the decline in the numbers of people employed in the textile industry has not materialized, which alternate industries is the Commission proposing to encourage to provide new replacement jobs in the textile regions of the EEC?
3. As member countries of the EEC give aid to their textile industries in diverse ways, is the Commission planning to introduce an active Community policy to control such aid to ensure fair competition? It not, why?
4. Is the Commission preparing plans to ensure that environmental standards in the textile industry are enforced in all EEC countries and any hidden subsidies in the environmental area are equalized throughout the Community?
Answer (11 January 1980)
1. In the context of the report on some structural In the application of the general guidelines the following aspects of growth (*), the Commission's communication factors are relevant: to the Council (2) set out general guidelines for adapting ^, ., ,,,.., , ,, the textile and clothing industries to the changing ~ The textile and clothing mdustnes should contmue to ... t - »• i ^ occupy an important place in the economy ot the conditions or international competition. _ V3 • £, ,r , /.. Community. The only guarantee tor maintaining (») Doc. COM(78) 255 final, 22. 6. 1978. )obs in tne lon8 term is meir capability to regain and (2) Doc. COM(78) 362 final. maintain a highly competitive position. No C 41/2 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 2. 80
— The heterogenous nature of the sub-sectors, in terms The Community has adopted a framework for its of activities which vary widely from highly capital external trade (the Multi-Fibre Agreement and what intensive to very labour intensive as well as in the size might follow it, the tariff negotiations within the MTNs) of the undertakings, creates specific problems as well which constitutes a factor which the strategy of as offering opportunities in individual sub-sectors enterprises should take into account. Furthermore it is a and for firms within a sub-sector. matter of acting in such a way that the enterprises in these industries can operate in as favourable an environment as possible, in order to be able to organize — The initiative in adapting to changing conditions, their activities at a satisfactory level of competitiveness. which is an ongoing process, lies in the first instance with the undertakings themselves. It is assisted by a common policy which aims to create an external In this context two particular points have already environment as favourable to the industries as our emerged from the consultations mentioned above: international obligations make possible.
1. a- second programme for research in the — In the restructuring and diversification which are textile/clothing industry; part of the process of adaptation, the guidelines for the management of the European Social Fund for 1980 to 1982 (*) give priority to operations 2. the setting up of an information system which would assemble information of use to
'in favour of persons having to leave the textile and — undertakings, in order to improve their clothing sectors in order to pursue activities in management information and thus be in a another sector of economic activity and carried out stronger competitive position, in textile producing areas with a particularly high unemployment rate, or — the Commission, in order to ensure that its activities are appropriate to the evolving situation in the industries concerned. in favour of persons employed in the textile and clothing sectors who, as a result of structural adaptation measures, are retrained for jobs in 2. In the view of the Commission the prime mover of another branch of the same sector showing prospects progress and adaptation in the industry is of viability at Community level in the foreseeable entrepreneurial skill and drive. Thus the Commission future. Training operations which lead directly to will concentrate on helping undertakings in this respect, employment in branches considered particularly e.g. encouraging the exchange of information, sensitive because of the high level of market supporting pilot projects, contributing towards the penetration by low-priced imports, or for which a financing of market research, etc. critical situation is recognized on the basis of the internal Community market, can only be considered in so far as the products involved are capable of The process of diversification in areas heavily dependent achieving satisfactory competitivity, particularly as on textiles or clothing is supported by Community regards average costs.' schemes such as FEDER, FSE, etc. and by the EIB. It needs to take full account of local situations and must therefore rely on local initiative which may be assisted In close collaboration with Comitextil and the European by national or Community funds in appropriate Clothing Manufacturers Association, a number of circumstances. The Commission recognizes the problem consultations were arranged in order to examine these of declining job opportunities in textiles and clothing, it matters. Parallel discussions are being held with the trade is addressing itself, in cooperation with its social unions. partners, to identifying the causes of a trend in the Community which diverges from that observed in some other industrialised countries. All participants agreed that there was a need for a balanced adjustment to the changing economic scene and 3. National aids for the textile and clothing industries the consequences of technological progress. This should have been subject since 1971 to a Community take into account the varied characteristics of the textile framework which defines the objectives and modalities and clothing industry as regards location, the type of which need to be satisfied. The Commission applies the enterprise and the structure of the labour force. It was principles of this framework to all aid projects which are also agreed to hold regular consultations to discuss submitted and monitors, in accordance with the topics of common interest with both sides of industry. provisions of Article 93 of the Treaty, the application of any schemes and of existing aids. In the report which the (») OJ No C 159, 26. 6. 1979, p. 4. Commission makes annually to Parliament on 18. 2. 80 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 41/3 competition policy, it includes the position which it has States. Aids given to textile or clothing enterprises, as is adopted in cases falling within this context. die case for those granted to other industries, in respect of the protection of the environment are subject to the 4. The Commission is not aware of measures framework established by the Commission ^ and concerning environmental standards which are specific communicated to the Member States on 6 November to the textiles and clothing industries of the Member 1974.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 470/79 by Mr Verhaegen to the Commission of the European Communities (11 September 1979)
Subject: Retail prices and farm prices
Information compiled by the European Communities' Statistical Office shows that in all Member States retail prices rose more rapidly in the first half of 1979 that in the first half of 1978. On a year-to-year basis the percentage increase in the highest for 20 months.
Can the Commission state:
1. The main reasons for this trend in the individual Member States?
2. What proportion of the overall increase in retail prices in the first half of 1978 and the first half of 1979 respectively was due to increases in the price of food, and what proportion was due to the amount paid for agricultural products to the producer?
Answer (16 January 1980)
1. The more rapid rise in consumer prices noted in all Benelux countries the currency appreciation which had Member States between the first half of 1978 and the mitigated the rise in import prices in 1978, ceased to do first half of 1979 made itself felt to different extents but so in 1979. In Ireland the trend was accentuated by the was the result of one set of circumstances: the direct reduction of subsidies on foods which took effect at the repercussion of the increase in oil prices, the surge in the beginning of the year and the introduction of a 2 % tax price of services, the dearer manufactured articles due on certain agricultural products produced in Ireland and partly to higher world prices for raw materials, and the supplied by the producers for processing, storage or rise in food prices caused by the severe weather in many export. In Denmark prices have been catching up parts at the beginning of the year. Special factors in some following the abandonment of the price freeze at the end Member States have aggravated the trend: in Italy and of March. the United Kingdom, for example, the substantial rise in rents and the cost of housing has been an aggravating 2. Changes in the total cost of living and the cost of factor, as was in France the increase in public sector food in the first six months of 1978 and in the same prices; in the Federal Republic of Germany and in the period of 1979: No C 41/4 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 2. 80
1978 1979
Total living Food Total living Food costs costs
Germany + 2-2% + 2-8% + 3-7% + 3-3% France + 50% + 3-9% + 55% + 4-4% Italy + 60% + 61% + 7-9% — Netherlands + 21% -1-8% + 2-6% + 20% Belgium + 1-4% -1-8% + 20% -0-8% Luxembourg + 20% + 11% + 2-8% + 1-7% United Kingdom + 4-7% + 5-7% + 7-6% + 8-4% Ireland + 3-2% + 4-5% + 7-5% + 9-5% Denmark + 3 0% + 1-5% + 4-4% + 1-4% EUR 9 + 41% + 4-1% + 60% —
With the exception of the United Kingdom, Ireland and Italy it can be seen that the increases in food prices are generally lower than those in the total cost of living.
The impact of price increases for producer prices for agricultural products on the food prices is very difficult to estimate. It should be noted that the producer price on some occasions only amounts to a very small part of the retail price for food. This share varies from product to product depending on the nature of the product and the degree of processing.
The institutional prices for agricultural products was for the marketing year 1978/79 increased by an average of 2-4%. Prices in national currencies are affected by this price increase as well as changes in the representative rates applied in agriculture. A devaluation of the representative rate will affect food prices since it means that the price of agricultural products, expressed in national currencies.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 530/79 by Mr Miiller-Hermann to the Commission of the European Communities (20 September 1979)
Subject: Soluble coffee production in the European 2. Has not the Commission, like the European Communities Parliament, in the past consistently advocated the view that a genuine international division of labour should be I am informed that Directorate-General I has stated that, based on fair international competition? Does this not in an international division of labour, some processing therefore apply as a general principle to the processing of industries would have to be transferred to the countries all kinds of raw material? producing the raw materials involved, and that the soluble coffee manufacturing industry was a typical 3. Is it true that Brazilian producers in particular are example. offering their soluble coffee at prices below those European processors are having to pay for green coffee? 1. Is my information true, and if so, does it mean that And if this is so, should not action be taken against the European soluble coffee manufacturing industry is to dumping of this nature, as, at least in the past, the disappear from the market? Does the Commission realize Commission and European Parliament agreed not to that this would wipe out thousands of jobs in the allow dumping even as a means of assisting developing European Community? countries? 18. 2. 80 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 41/5
Answer (IS January 1980)
1. No public statement was ever made by Directo soluble coffee manufacturers in the Community will have rate-General I on this subject. A similar statement was to exert themselves to meet a higher degree of made at an informal meeting some months ago between competition from abroad. executives representing Afcasole and Commission officials in the offices oi the Commission. In the Commission's view, they are well equipped to do this on the basis of efficiency, blending expertise, quality, The transfer of some processing work from Europe to and their superior expert knowledge of differences in countries which produce the raw materials for European regional taste for their products throughout the industry is an essential element in the development policy Community. These advantages built into their home of the Community. Such an attitude is entirely consistent market should enable them to compete on the basis of with commitments made with regard to local processing any reasonable price advantage accruing to Brazilian by all Member States of the Community in resolutions 93 manufacturers. (IV) of Unctad IV in Nairobi (May 1976) and 124 (V) of Unctad V in Manilla (June 1979). For these reasons the Commission does not consider jobs in the Community to be at risk as suggested by the Since coffee is not grown in the Community, soluble Honourable Member. coffee is clearly a typical example of a product which is increasingly likely to be manufactured in the developing 2. Yes. countries in which coffee is grown. This gives such countries the opportunity to add value to their own raw 3. As a result of recent representations made with material production. This does not mean in any way that the Commission by the European soluble coffee the European soluble coffee manufacturing industry manufacturers the Commission is studying with them must disappear. Such a result is not and never has been current Brazilian trade practices in relation with both an element in the Communities' policy. It does mean that coffee beans and soluble coffee.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 558/79 by Mr Seefeld to the Commission of the ^European Communities (25 September 1979)
Subject: Portuguese motor vehicle imports
1. Is it true that Portugal wishes to extend the deadline, set at 1980 in the 1976 Free Trade Agreement, for ending motor vehicle import quotas?
2. If so, (a) What reasons have been given? (b) What is the Commission's decision?
Answer (17 January 1980)
At the meeting of the EEC-Portugal Joint Committee on 22 January 1979 the Government of Portugal informed the Community that it wished to enter into negotiations with a view to No C 41/6 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 2. 80
enabling Portugal to maintain restrictions on imports of motor vehicles beyond 31 December 1979 and to introduce quota arrangements in respect of completely knocked-down vehicles.
The Portuguese Government is planning to modernize the motor industry as part of its industrial restructuring programme and in order to prepare the country for accession to the Community. The Portuguese authorities have accordingly drawn up a restructuring plan, covering the period fom 1 January 1980 to 31 December 1985, under which it is proposed to introduce import quotas in respect of vehicles.
The Commission has accepted the need to restructure Portugal's motor industry and has proposed to the Council that negotiations should be opened with the Portuguese authorities for the purpose of working out detailed arrangements for imports into Portugal for the coming years. The Council has just submitted a negotiating directive to the Commission on this matter.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 683/79 by Mr Seefeld to the Commission of the European Communities (4 October 1979)
Subject: Inland postal rates in intra-Community postal traffic
1. How have the Community Member States, and in particular Denmark, Eire and the UK, reacted to the Commission's recommendation of 29 May 1979, to apply inland postal rates on letters falling in the lowest weight category and postcards in traffic between the Community Member States?
2. What difficulties still stand in the way of its adoption?
3. When is the proposal likely to be adopted by the Council?
Answer (21 January 1980)
1. There has been no official reaction yet to the Commission's recommendation of 29 May 1979.
2. The financial implications of the measure still seem to be the main obstacle.
3. No information is currently available on which to base a forecast. 18. 2. 80 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 41/7
WRITTEN QUESTION No 769/79 by Mr Newton-Dunn to die Commission of the European Communities (10 October 1979)
Subject: Exporting sugar surpluses
With regard to the Commission's proposal that the cost to the Community of exporting its sugar surpluses be switched from the CAP to the development chapter of the budget:
1. In what way is the use of development funds for export refunds regarded as developmental?
2. What is the current position of this proposal?
3. Can the Commission give an assurance that in future the burden of the cost of exporting EEC sugar surpluses will not be put on those least able to bear it, i.e. those living in developing countries?
Answer (17 January 1980)
1. The Commission does not regard the export refunds in question as developmental, but considers these costs to be an indirect consequence of the arrangements under Protocol 3 of the Lome Convention, by which the Community agreed to import a certain amount of sugar per annum from ACP States.
2. The proposal was rejected by the Council on 11 September 1979 when it approved the draft budget for 1980.
3. It is not intended to use development funds to finance this expenditure as it is simply a matter of budgetary presentation; the costs would be borne out of the general Community budget section 'Cooperation with non-member countries — commodities' and not by the European Development Fund.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 798/79 by Mrs Cresson to die Commission of the European Communities (16 October 1979)
Subject: Privileged positions in the French overseas departments and territories
The Community is providing development aid to the French overseas departments and territories, primarily through the Social Fund and the European Regional Fund. Aid from the Social Fund is actually higher than that granted to the French metropolitan departments. Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 2. 80
One noticeable feature of the French overseas departments is the privileged position enjoyed by certain sectors of society, among them the importers who exert a stranglehold on business, to the extent that they prevent the establishment of local industries (especially by the use of dumping to ruin any such attempts).
1. Is the Commission aware of this serious and endemic problem?
2. Can it allow the Community to lend indirect support to such unwarranted privileges which are stultifying the development of the overseas departments?
3. Does it not feel that it should consult the French Government with a view to setting in train a campaign against these vested interests?
Answer (18 January 1980)
1. The Commission has no precise information on the practices referred to by the Honourable Member. However, whatever the case, this is a matter for the French Government.
2. Nevertheless, if such practices were liable to affect trade within the Community, the Commission would take appropriate measures.
3. The Commission's action through the various Community Funds is concerned mainly with developing both agricultural and industrial employment in the overseas departments. Its financial assistance is directly aimed at certain socio-occupational categories, following economic criteria applied throughout the EEC; the favourable treatment accorded to the overseas departments by the various Funds reflects the economic development of these areas. This assistance could not, therefore, reinforce the practices to which the Honourable Member refers.
4. With regard to the overseas territories, the Commission would remind the Honourable Member that they do not come under the Treaty, but under an association decision which is being re-negotiated at the moment.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 809/79 by Mr Paisley to die Commission of the European Communities (16 October 1979)
Subject: Aid from EEC funds
1. To date how much EEC aid from all funds has been given to cross-border schemes between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland?
2. In view of the continual increases in air fares between Northern Ireland and Great Britain and the withdrawal of several seas connections, what consideration if any has been given to studying the feasibility of, and granting financial aid to, the introduction of a fast hovercraft service between Northern Ireland and the British mainland? 18.2. 80 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 41/9
Answer (18 January 1980)
1. European Regional Development Fund catchment areas including land on both sides of the border between Ireland and Northern Ireland. The aim To date, no cross-border scheme involving Northern of this common measures is to improve basic agricultural Ireland and the Republic of Ireland has been financed by structures in areas on either side of the border between the European Regional Development Fund, since the Ireland and Northern Ireland through the provision of Commission has not received any requests for assistance arterial drainage in catchment areas straddling the in this field from the Member States concerned. border.
In 1976, however, the Fund provided assistance, under Article 10 of Regulation (EEC) No 724/75 (x) The period covered by the common measure will be five establishing a European Regional Development Fund, years, and the total estimate cost to the Guidance Section to finance 50% of the cost of a cross-border of the EAGGF will be eight million EUA. communications study for the Londonderry and Donegal 2. Under the rules governing the European Regional Development Fund, applications for assistance for investment projects or studies must be submitted to the European Agricultural Guidance and Guarantee Fund Commission by the Member States concerned. Since no application for assistance has so far been submitted for On 6 February 1979, the Council adopted Directive 2 the project to which the Honourable Member refers, the 79/197/EEC ( ) on a programme to promote drainage in* Commission cannot at this stage comment on its (!) OJ No L 73, 21. 3. 1975, p. 1 and corrigendum; OJ No desirability, but it would give the matter careful L110, 30. 4. 1975, p. 44. consideration if any such request for assistance were to (2) OJ No L 43, 20. 2. 1979, p. 23. be submitted.
• WRITTEN QUESTION No 849/79 by Mr Normanton to die Commission of the European Communities (24 October 1979)
Subject: Trade in textiles with Malta
In the light of the strong representations put to Commissioner Davignon by the Manchester Chamber of Commerce concerning trade in textiles with Malta, will the Commission state what the present position is and when British textile exporters will cease to be selectively prejudiced?
Answer (18 January 1980)
The arrangement between the Community and Malta on trade in textiles was signed on 31 October this year and came into effect immediately. After the conclusion of the negotiations, the Maltese Government repealed the measures affecting United Kingdom exports of textile products. A number of problems have again cropped up since then which have had to be dealt with between the Commission and the Maltese authorities. The Commission is continuing to ensure that all Member States are able to export to Malta in accordance with the terms of the EEC-Malta Association Agreement. No C 41/10 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 2. 80
WRITTEN QUESTION No 863/79 by Mrs Lizin to the Foreign Ministers of the nine Member States of the European Communities meeting in political cooperation (24 October 1979)
Subject: Report on legislation adopted by South Africa following the recommendations of the Wiehahn and Riekert committees
Can the Foreign Ministers meeting in political cooperation give their assessment of this legislation.
Is it true that a report on this subject has been drawn up by the ambassadors of the Nine to Pretoria?
(a) What is the general opinion?
(b) In particular, what views are expressed on developments in the field of trade union freedom and the right of blacks to enter white areas?
(c) How soon is further progress likely to be made?
Answer (23 January 1980)
1. The Nine have repeatedly expressed their concern about the consequences of the apartheid system on South African society including the effects of racial discrimination in the area of labour relations. Their concern on this subject has also been reflected in the adoption of the Code of Conduct for companies which have subsidiaries in South Africa.
2. The Nine have noted with interest the recommendations for changes in the laws relating to labour relations and freedom of movement made by the Wiehahn and Riekert Commissions. It is too early to draw any definite conclusions about the effects of changes in these fields now being introduced or envisaged by the South African Government, and in particular about the recent legislative measures enabling Africans to form or enter registered trade unions, but the Nine hope that these will benefit the black working population of South Africa. The nine Member States of the Community are following developments closely and will continue to do so, but it would not be appropriate to comment on their confidential deliberations in this regard.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 877/79 by Mr Oehler to the Commission of the European Communities (24 October 1979)
Subject: Frontier workers in the EEC Experience has shown that frontier workers enjoy less There are about 215 000 frontier workers in the job security than nationals of the country in which they European Communities. work, are unfavourably affected by much social and They are therefore subject to the legal, social, and fiscal legislation, and in many cases, suffer as a result of economic systems of two different countries. exchange rate fluctuations. 18. 2. 80 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 41/11
Furthermore, they are recruited through channels over 3. Does the Commission not feel that the Community which the authorities have no control, which has led to Regulations ((EEC) No 1408/71 and (EEC) No widespread and glaring exploitation. 574/72 (*)) are too inflexible, and in some cases actually prevent the elimination of certain forms of It is therefore evident that there is a need to: discrimination? — draw up a Community charter for frontier workers; 4. Does it not agree that action at European level has — eliminate economic disparities between neighbouring been purely academic in nature, and that to argue frontier regions; that monetary union, as is so frequently suggested, would be the final solution for the problems of — harmonize cross-border relations between local and frontier workers, is merely to evade the issue? regional authorities. 5. Can it give details of the sex, age and vocational 1. What steps has the Commission taken to achieve qualifications of frontier workers at the these goals? Community's internal and external borders?
2. Have the Governments of the Member States taken ((» ) OJ No L 149,5. 7. 1971, p. 2 and OJ No L 74, 27. 3. 1972, action to solve the problems of frontier workers? p. 1.
Answer (11 January 1980)
1. The Commission is aware of the problems referred In regard to regional policy, and the question of the to, and invites the Honourable Member to take note of elimination of economic disparities between frontier the replies given to previous written questions (*). regions, the Commission recalls that assistance in this direction is possible from the Regional Development The Commission is about to complete a comprehensive Fund (3). study on the whole subject of frontier workers, and will, as a matter or urgency, be examining the study with a The Ems-Dollart regions are the first to carry out an view to making such proposals as are considered experimental programme for frontier workers. It is necessary to improve the situation. Account will also be hoped that this example will be followed by other taken of the opinion of the Economic and Social frontier regions in the Community. Committee (2). One of the actions proposed in the draft Regulations Within the Community as member country nationals introducing specific Community regional development frontier workers come under Regulations (EEC) No measures recently forwarded to the Council concerns the 1612/68 and (EEC) No 1408/71 concerning freedom of improvement of the economic and social situation in the movement and social security respectively. frontier zones of Ireland and Northern Ireland.
Other actions have been taken in regard to taxation and In 1976, the Regional Policy Committee reminded regional policy. The Commission recently sent to the intergovernmental organizations of the need for Council a proposal for a Directive regarding the cooperation between frontier authorities. On the basis of harmonization of taxation laws, which will deal with the the reactions to that reminder, the Commission is situation of frontier workers. preparing a general framework for action on behalf of frontier workers.
2. The Commission is aware that several bilateral (») Written Question Nos 320/73 by Mr Bousch (OJ No C 106, Agreements have been signed between Member States, 6. 12. 1973), 581/76 by Mr Ansart (OJ No C 27, 3. 12. 1977), 369/78 by Mr Dondelinger (OJ No C 282, 27. 11. and between Member States and non-member countries; 1978). Oral question, with debate: 043/78 by Mr some of these Agreements seek to settle various problems Dondelinger (Annex No 233 to the Official Journal, concerning taxation, social questions and exchange rates Debates of the European Parliament, 15. 9. 1978). P) ESC84/79 of 24Januaryl979 (OJNo C 28,21.5.1979). (3) OJ No L 35, 9. 2. 1979. No C 41/12 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 2. 80 although, of course, the solutions adopted differ from It should, however, be pointed out that special provisions one situation to another. with respect to health and unemployment have been embodied in Community legislation to take account of 3. The Regulations to which the Honourable Member the special situation of frontier workers. refers have established the principle that thciegislation of the country of employment should apply, with exceptions for special cases, for example where workers 4. The Commission would point to the answers given are seconded for brief periods to a Member State other to previous written questions (see point 1) and wishes to than that in which they are normally employed. Some reiterate that the subject is extremely complicated frontier workers would like to be able to select, under and difficult and that no ready solutions can be each heading, the legislation that is most advantageous to expected. them. The Commission shares the view of the Member States that it would be undesirable to allow such a system 5. No information is available other than that given in both for administrative reasons and as a matter of the Commission's answer to Written Question No principle, since it would give frontier workers an 621/79 (*) by the Honourable Member. advantage over other workers living in a Member State other than that in which they are employed. (») OJ No C 301, 3. 12. 1979.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 889/79 by Mr Denis to the Commission of the European Communities (24 October 1979)
Subject: Results achieved by the Centre for Industrial Development set up under the Convention of Lome
According to the Commission's own assessment, 'the results (of the Convention of Lome) of industrial cooperation have been sparse. A number of operations have been carried out, but they have tended on the whole to be in a "conservative" mould' (*).
1. Will the Commission list these operations giving the countries and industries involved, the industrial undertakings taking part and the amount of financial assistance, if any, provided by the Community?
2. What does the Commission mean by a 'conservative mould' in respect of industrial cooperation?
(») PE 59.253, 20. 8. 1979.
Answer (17 January 1980)
1. The most recent stocktaking of CID operations is 1979) to which the Honourable Member refers, the to be found in that body's annual report for 1978. An expression 'conservative mould' applies to the whole extract from this report, which is still awaiting the field of industrial cooperation and not just to CID approval of the ACP-EEC Committee on Industrial operations. Cooperation before being transmitted to the Council, is being sent to the Honourable Member, for information. 2. The Commission's assessment must therefore be As stated clearly in the document (PE 59.253, 20. 8. understood as follows. Obviously the process of 18. 2. 80 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 41/13 industrialization in the developing countries, and business, calling for perseverance and continuity. The particularly in the ACP States, is encountering major operations undertaken in the context of the first Lome obstacles. Community aid can alleviate only a very small Convention, when industrial cooperation was just number of these problems. Industrial cooperation with getting off the ground, thus necessitated the utmost the third world does not constitute a specific form of caution and careful phasing. Those to be implemented, aid but enlists an extensive arsenal of differentiated and during the years ahead, under the second Lome interdependent- cooperation activities, some of them Convention, will call for imagination and more traditional (establishment of industrial infrastructure, widescale action and the pace of execution will have to investment in industries, training, trade promotion) and be consistent with the priority given to industrial others more novel (industrial promotion, financial and cooperation in the Convention. The more clearcut technical assistance to small and medium-sized definition in the new Convention of the Centre for enterprises, internal adjustment policies), all aimed at Industrial Development and of the main tasks on which fostering industrialization. Coordinated implementation it is to concentrate, combined with the reinforcement of of this wide range of instruments and methods of the Centre's financial resources, will make its job easier. industrial cooperation is a complex and difficult
WRITTEN QUESTION No 903/79 by Mr Fuchs to the Commission of the European Communities (24 October 1979)
Subject: Standardization of power consumption of household electrical appliances as a means of saving energy
The possibility of standardizing the power consumption of household electrical appliances is being discussed in several Member States as a means of saving energy.
1. Does the Commission consider unified Community standards for the power consumption of household electrical appliances to be desirable and expedient?
2. If so, is the Commission willing to submit appropriate proposals to the Council?
3. What energy savings could be achieved through standardization?
4. In the Commission's view, how long would it take to implement standardization in the Member States?
Answer (15 January 1980)
1. On 14 May 1979 the Council adopted a Directive less energy and thus, through the free play of on the indication by labelling of the energy consumption competition, induce manufacturers to try to reduce the of household appliances. The first Directive applying consumption of their appliances. In the current economic this to electric ovens was adopted at the same time. The climate it did not appear advisable to introduce Commission is actively preparing drafts for household mandatory measures. However, the Commission is appliances which have a high energy consumption. considering discussions with the industry to draw up These Directives are intended to guide potential voluntary objectives for increasing efficiency. purchasers towards choosing appliances which consume No C 41/14 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 2. 80
2. The Commission is initiating a study of the electric ovens: 40% technical possibilities for improving the efficiency of refrigerators: household appliances and the effects which the 50% necessary modifications would have on the selling price washing machines: 30% in relation to the advantages which could be expected as dish-washers: 25% regards energy savings. Once the study's results are available it will be possible to judge whether spin-driers: 30 to 50% Consumption standards should be proposed to the water-heaters: 15% Council. Estimates by the Member States place the total energy consumption of household appliances at some 200 000 GWh a year, i.e. close to 5% of gross internal 3. According to various investigations, in the present consumption. A general saving of 20 % could reduce this state of the art and taking account of the efficiency of the to 1 % in 10 years, time for replacement of existing appliances now on the market, the maximum potential stocks of domestic appliances. energy savings for the main household appliances could be as follows: 4. Two years would be a reasonable time limit.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 938/79 by Mrs Lizin to the Foreign Ministers of the nine Member States of the European Communities meeting in political cooperation (24 October 1979)
Subject: Follow-up to Belgrade: preparation for the Madrid Conference
Can the Foreign Ministers of the Nine meeting in political cooperation indicate what stage preparations for this conference have reached? At what level will it be held?
How do the Nine intend to respond to the keen interest shown on numerous occasions by the Warsaw Pact countries in the military aspects of security?
Will their response take the form of a follow-up conference to the one held in Madrid? Would such a conference have a broad agenda including the problems of nuclear security or would it be restricted to further confidence-building measures?
Answer (23 January 1980)
1. (a) Since early this year the Nine's regular At Madrid the Nine will press for better consultations on issues relating to the implementation of all aspects of the Helsinki Conference on Security and Cooperation in Final Act. They will also seek to have the meeting Europe (CSCE) have been devoted mainly to adopt new measures covering all the main areas preparations for the next CSCE follow-up of the Final Act which will effectively promote meeting which opens in Madrid in November further implementation and enlarge the scope of 1980. As at previous CSCE meetings the Nine cooperation among the participating States. To intend to make an active contribution to the this end they are preparing their positions Madrid meeting, they hope that it will mark a carefully on all the substantive and procedural significant step forward in the development of issues connected with the meeting and are East-West relations in Europe, thus giving a fresh studying proposals which they might table there. impetus to the CSCE process and contributing to the advancement of detente. 18. 2. 80 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 41/15
Furthermore, in preparation for the meeting, the participating States have expressed a wish to improve Nine are engaging in bilateral consultations with and strengthen the Final Act's existing provisions for other participating States in order to discuss all confidence-building measures. these questions and to facilitate a greater understanding of each other's objectives with In keeping with their concern to promote a progressive regard to Madrid and the future of the CSCE and balanced implementation of the Final Act, the Nine process. would like to see the Madrid meeting arrive at concrete results of a nature which will contribute in an effective- (b) It is not possible at this stage to state at what manner to the development of security in Europe as a level the Madrid meeting will be held. The whole. To this end the Nine are willing to examine with Belgrade concluding document which records particular attention all initiatives which would allow the the agreement of the 35 CSCE participating participants on an equal footing to engage in a discussion States to hold a further meeting among their capable of leading to the realization of these objectives. representatives in Madrid in 1980 does not specify the level at which the meeting should take 3. The Nine's position on a possible follow-up place. Accordingly, unless a consensus is reached meeting to Madrid on military security issues was set out on this question at the preparatory talks due to in a declaration issued by the Foreign Ministers after take place two months before the main Madrid their meeting in the framework of European political meeting, it will be open to each participating cooperation on 20 November. The declaration states State to decide at what level it wishes to be that the Nine 'support an approach aiming at the represented. It has been suggested that the adoption at Madrid of a mandate establishing the Madrid meeting should be held, at least partly, at conditions for negotiations with the objective of agreeing Foreign Minister level in order to give the CSCE by common accord on meaningful confidence-building a fresh political impetus and, to this end, the measures in the military field. These should be verifiable, Nine are examining this suggestion in the light of applicable to the European continent as a whole and developments. such that, by contributing to the improvement of the security of States, they will create conditions leading to a 2. Military security issues are expected to play an process of arms control and reduction within the same important role in the discussions at Madrid. Already geographical framework. This process should take some interesting initiatives in this field have been account both of the different aspects of the existing launched, in particular the French proposal for a security situation and current negotiations on other Conference on disarmament in Europe, and the Nine are aspects of disarmament relating to the European giving them careful consideration. In addition, many continent.'
WRITTEN QUESTION No 942/79 by Lord O'Hagan to the Commission of die European Communities (26 October 1979)
Subject: Cheese
Increased consumption and export of cheese could play a part in coping with the dairy surplus.
1. How much cheese has been imported into the EEC from outside in each of the past five years?
2. What has been the consumption of cheese inside the EEC in each of the past five years?
3. How much cheese (and of which varieties) has been exported from the EEC in each of the past five years?
4. What steps to the Commission and Member States take in order to encourage the making of cheese? Are such steps adequate? Is the encouragement of cheesemaking likely to increase or decrease the surplus of dairy products? No C 41/16 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 2. 80
Answer (8 January 1980)
1. The following are the annual EEC imports of cheese during the past five years:
Imports ('000 tonnes) 1974 83 1975 96 1976 104 1977 89 1978 77 Source: Eurostat — NIMEXE.
2. The following are the annual quantities of cheese consumed within the EEC during the past five years: (consumption '000 tonnes) 1974 2 719 1975 2 785 1976 2 919 1977 2 985 1978 3 183 Source: Bilan d'approvisionnement agricole (CROROS).
3. The following quantities of cheese, in total and per cheese type, were exported each year during the past five years.
Exports of cheese
('000 tonnes)
1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
Total exports of which: 190 160 201 208 218 (a) Emmenthaler 8-6 2-8 3-7 3-7 3-8 (b) Blue veined 8-3 8-5 91 9-4 9-9 (c) Processed 371 33-2 49-7 50-3 52-8 (d) Grana-Parmesan 100 9-3 8-8 7-7 7-7 (e) Cheddar 19-4 3-5 100 1-9 6-6 (f) Tilsit and others 0-6 0-5 0-3 0-3 0-4 (g) Sheep, goat, Kashkaval — 0-2 3-8 3-2 0-2 (h) Grated 1-3 0-9 11 1-2 1-3 (i) Danbo, Edam, Fontal, Fontina, Fymbo, Gouda, Havarti, Maribo and Samse (1) 70-0 (M (J) FetaH 35-8 I1) (k) Fresh cheeses and curd 2-7 10 0-8 1-5 0-5 (1) Cheeses not grated or powdered, not included above 97-0 960 1100 125-2 19-0 {»)
{') From 1978 on, item (1) has been split up in the items (i), (j) and (1). Source: Eurostat — NIMEXE. 18. 2. 80 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 41/17
4. The Commission has provided indirect measures to support cheese production by granting investment aid for the construction of cheese factories and storehouses. Other support measures include expenditures on promotion and on publicity designed to increase cheese consumption, aids for private storage of certain types of cheese and refunds for exports of cheeses. Cheese production and consumption in the Community have steadily increased. Further measures to encourage cheese production do not seem warranted as long as this production is adequate to meet the increasing demand for cheese (consumption and export).
The Commission is of the opinion that an encouragement of cheese production above the level of demand, thereby leading to surplus stocks of cheese, would have more adverse consequences than storing the same surplus in the form of butter and skimmed-milk powder.
A further expansion of the cheese market through increased consumption and by increased exports is therefore considered to be the only solid basis for a possible further increase of the cheese production.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 948/79 by Mrs Lizin to the Foreign Ministers of the nine Member States of the European Communities meeting in political cooperation (29 October 1979)
Subject: Expulsion of South Africa from the Universal Postal Union
Is it true that the Nine protested against South Africa's expulsion from the Universal Postal Union at the latter's Congress in Rio de Janeiro?
In what terms was the protest formulated?
Is it true that some delegations considered the protest too mild?
How can the Nine consider this position compatible with their public statements condemning the policy practised by the South African Government?
Answer (23 January 1980)
At the recent 18th Congress of the Universal Postal Union in Rio de Janeiro, a resolution was passed purporting to expel South Africa from the Union.
The Nine voted against this resolution and, following its adoption, circulated a statement of their objections at the Congress. Subsequently the Nine submitted, for inclusion in the final documents of the Congress, a declaration indicating that they did not accept the decision. The text of this declaration is annexed.
The Nine objected to the resolution on the grounds that it had no legal basis in the constitution of the UPU. They considered that, by breaching the constitution of the Union and detracting from its universality, the resolution would be damaging to the Union which is dedicated to technical, economic and humanitarian ends. The Nine see no conflict between this position of principle and their attitude towards South Africa's racial policies, which they continue to condemn. No C 41/18 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 2. 80
ANNEX
1. The nine Member States of the European Community condemn South Africa's racial policy and are making determined and constructive efforts to improve the situation.
2. However, the decision taken on 18 September 1979 purporting to expel a member country from the UPU was taken in breach of the UPU constitution which contains no provision for the expulsion of members. The decision, therefore, has no legal validity and accordingly the Nine do not accept it. They consider that South Africa is still a member of the Universal Postal Union and will, therefore, continue to treat with the South African postal administration.
3. Furthermore, they hold the decision of Congress contrary to the principle of universality of the United Nations. They deplore actions of a purely political nature in organizations such as the UPU which are dedicated to technical, economic and humanitarian ends. They believe that such action, by breaching the constitution of the UPU and by detracting from the universality of the Union, will be damaging to the organization itself, which depends on international cooperation and respect for its constitutional rules.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 969/79 by Mr Lalor to the Commission of the European Communities (31 October 1979)
Subject: Role of the Commission's information offices in the Member States
1. What are the essential responsibilities of the Commission's information offices in the Member States?
2. Does not the Commission consider that the European Economic Community should have one information office instead of the existing separate information offices for both Commission and European Parliament?
3. Do the Commission's information offices assume responsibilities on behalf of the Commission vis-a-vis the Governments of the Member States and, if so, what are these responsibilities?
Answer (11 January 1980)
1. The essential responsibilities of the Commission's information offices in Member States are to inform as wide a public as possible in the regions they cover of the aims and nature of the European Community, its institutions and policies, and at the same time to inform the Commission of the specific needs of their region on all matters of particular relevance to the Commission.
2. No. The information offices of the Commission and the Parliament have related but quite separate mandates and tasks. However, the close coordination of activities is essential, and is current practice.
3. No. 18. 2. 80 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 41/19
WRITTEN QUESTION No 971/79 by Mr Lalor to the Commission of the European Communities (31 October 1979)
Subject: Role of the Commission's information offices during European election campaign
1. Could the Commission describe briefly the activities of its information offices in the Member States during the European election campaign?
2. Does the Commission consider that these activities resulted in a greater appreciation of Community policies in the Member States?
3. Were the resources made available to every information office fully utilized?
Answer (16 January 1980)
1. The Commission information offices' main activity in the European Parliament election campaign took place before, rather than during, the party campaigns. In cooperation with the offices of the European Parliament, and with the help of a specialized agency in each country, they were responsible for the organization of a large-scale publicity campaign designed to provide electors with information about the Parliament and the Community, to bring to their attention the importance of the election, and to encourage them to vote. The offices were also responsible for meeting the large volume of requests for publications and additional information stimulated by this information campaign.
2. Yes.
3. Yes. Additional temporary staff recruited for this period were fully occupied in all the offices, and all available financial resources were fully utilized.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 992/79 by Mr Marshall to the Commission of the European Communities (7 November 1979)
Subject: Competition by government-subsidized textile corporations
Is the Commission aware that in Holland, Belgium and Italy much of the textile industry is subsidized by the government? What action does it propose to take to curb this distortion of intra-Community trade? No C 41/20 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 2. 80
< Answer (11 January 1980)
1. National aids to the textile industry are subject to Commission scrutiny under Articles 92 et seq. of the EEC Treaty. Since 1971 they have been subject to a Community discipline setting out the objectives and procedures with which they must comply. The Commission applies the principles of that discipline when assessing all schemes of assistance notified to it and keeps all existing aid schemes under review, as it is required to do by Article 93 (1) of the Treaty. All Commission decisions in these areas are detailed in the annual report on competition policy which the Commission transmits to Parliament (1).
2. Over the past few years the Commission has been called upon to examine several aid schemes notified by Member States, including those referred to by the Honourable Member. On each occasion it has required the Member State to amend its aid scheme to ensure that any assistance granted was in accordance with the objectives mentioned at 1 above and to prevent trade being adversely affected to an extent contrary to the common interest.
(J) The Commission has already provided information on this point in its answer to Written Question No 297/79 by Mr Seal, Mr Megahy and Mr Enright (see page 1 of this Official Journal).
WRITTEN QUESTION No 1031/79 by Mrs Ewing to the Commission of the European Communities (7 November 1979)
Subject: Tomato-growing industry
In view of the hardships facing the tomato-growing industry in Scotland and the years of cutback therein, will the Commission give a breakdown of the numbers employed in the tomato-growing industry in the Member States and the crop production of each for the last convenient period, and state in which States subsidies are received?
Answer (17 January 1980)
The Commission cannot provide the Honourable The tomato crop production for the past four marketing Member with the information requested concerning the years is given in Table II. number of persons employed in tomato growing in the various Member States. There is scarcely a single With regard to subsidies, most Member States concede horticultural holding which does not produce tomatoes exemptions from or refunds of excise duties on fuel for and thus any person employed in tomato growing will heating greenhouses. also be working on other crops. Some Member States have introduced general aid schemes to save energy and diversify the sources of In the absence of more specific statistics, the Honourable energy utilized. Member will find in Table I below the data concerning the growing of fresh vegetables, melons and strawberries Most Member States encourage investments with a view as indicated by the 1975 survey on the structure of to the rationalization or modernization of the industry agricultural holdings. by aid measures or general economic measures. 18. 2. 80 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 41/21
TABLE I
Holdings which devote part of their land to growing fresh vegetables, melons and strawberries
Number % of total UAA for fresh of which: % of holdings with less than: holdings vegetables, average UAA melons and per holding strawberries '000 '000 ha ha 1 ALU 2 ALU 3 ALU 5 ALU
Germany 42 5 50 1-2 30 69 90 98 France 186 14 236 1-3 17 65 89 98 Italy 552 21 294 05 45 79 92 98 Netherlands 27 17 • 58 21 14 68 90 98 Belgium 22 16 31 1-4 30 83 97 99 Luxembourg 0 1 0 0-9 — 58 82 82 United Kingdom 26 9 162 6-3 9 42 63 80 Ireland 12 5 6 0-6 16 61 87 97 Denmark 6 4 13 2-2 20 65 87 96
EUR 873 15 852 10 35 74 91 97
Source: Eurostat - 1975 survey of the structure of agricultural holdings.
TABLE II
Production
('000 tonnes)
1976 1977 1978 1979
Germany 33 315 33 076 27 982 30 497 France 581 270 581 360 802 050 744 000 Italy 2 809 570 3 179 410 3 688 800 4 128 000 Netherlands 373 000 366 900 371 200 395 000 Belgium 149 150 130 100 115 600 120 000 Luxembourg 150 120 80 100 United Kingdom 130 400 125 500 135 600 140 000 Ireland 25 451 28 364 28 023 20 000 Denmark 20 857 17 737 17 860 18 000
Source: SOEC - CRONOS. No C 41/22 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 2. 80
WRITTEN QUESTION No 1040/79 by Mr Moreland to the Commission of the European Communities (7 November 1979)
Subject: EAGGF grants
What conditions must be satisfied for EAGGF grants to be approved by the Commission?
Answer (15 January 1980)
The Honourable Member will find the information he seeks in Regulations (EEC) No 355/77 H and (EEC) No 219/78 (2).
(») OJ No L 51, 23. 2. 1977. (2) OJ No L 35, 4. 2. 1978.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 1151/79 by Mr Verhaegen to the Commission of the European Communities (23 November 1979)
Subject: Erosion of prices of cattle on the hoof ^b) to what extent will die concessions made in the GATT negotiations push up net imports in The erosion of market prices of live cattle is assuming 1980? alarming proportions for producers. The target price has not been reached in any of the Member States for several 3. What quantities in the various Member States were months. From 86% at the end of August 1979 the the subject of intervention measures in the first nine average market price in the Nine fell to under 84 % at the months of 1978 and 1979, and what was the level of beginning of October and in Ireland did not even reach stocks of intervention meat in public and private 68%. storage in the same periods?
1. How does the Commission explain this trend, which 4. To what extent have low meat prices to producers is so detrimental to the incomes of meat producers? benefited consumers in the Member States?
2. (a) What were total imports from third countries in 5. To what extent have low meat prices to producers the first nine months of 1978 and 1979 (weight adversely affected conversion from milk to meat of unboned meat) production? 18. 2. 80 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 41/23
Answer (18 January 1980)
1. The Commission does not share the Honourable Member's pessimistic view with regard to prices for live catde. The average prices expressed in national currency for each Member State for July 1978 and 1979 and October 1978 and 1979 and the year-on-year increments (%) are as follows:
July October % 1978 1979 1978 1979 %
Belgium 5 797-6 5 907-4 + 1-9 5 5151 5 775-4 + 4-7 Denmark 845-97 876-84 + 3-6 834-15 883-3 + 5-9 Germany 357-65 360-39 + 0-8 349-69 35815 + 2-4 France 754-10 784-17 + 40 726-44 776-70 + 6-9 Ireland 71•808 82-369 + 14-7 69-796 66-027 - 5-4 Italy 126 213 135 855 + 7-6 129 535 144 549 + 116 Luxembourg 5 6500 5 7380 + 1-6 5 525-7 5 579-8 + 10 Netherlands 344-68 345-11 + 01 334-74 335-22 + 01 United Kingdom 66 056 76-798 + 16-3 60-913 68-168 + 11 9
2. (a) Total imports, as calculated from the import Public and private stocks at the end of September 1978 licences issued, during the first nine months of and September 1979 were 303 560 tonnes and 302 450 1978 and 1979 were 297 600 tonnes and tonnes respectively. 296 800 tonnes respectively.
(b) The concessions made in the GATT negotiations mean that from 1980 the volume of beef and veal qualifying for special import conditions will be The estimate for 15 November 1979 is 342 000 tonnes. increased by 50 000 tonnes bone-in equivalent. It is difficult to estimate by how much the Community's net imports will increase in 1980 as a result of these concessions: tentative estimates suggest that 1980 imports will be 4. The figures for producer and consumer prices for slightly up on 1979, but the net balance will also, 1973 to 1978 given in the attached table show that in all of course, depend on Community exports. Member States except Ireland consumer prices have gone up more quickly than producer prices. The 1974 crisis 3. The following quantities were bought in during the appears to have been responsible for this. In 1974 first nine months of 1978 and 1979: producer prices fell in all the Member States except Italy, but retail prices were affected — though not to the same extent — only in Ireland, the Federal Republic of 1978 1979 Germany and the Netherlands. This confirms yet again that the margins earned by intermediaries increase when Belgium — — producer prices go down and narrow when they go up, Denmark 12 950 16 360 since the retailers tend to level out the prices they charge. Germany 46 250 50 260 As they do this mainly when producer prices are going down, the long-term result is a wider gap between what France — 29 120 the farmer gets and what the housewife pays. Ireland 55 570 53 270 Italy 11 360 30 830 Luxembourg — — Netherlands 5 720 10 740 United Kingdom 12 510 1710 It will be seen from the general consumption prices indices from 1973 to 1978 given in the table that during Total (tonnes) 144 360 192 290 this period retail prices for beef and veal have been No C 41/24 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 2. 80 increasing more slowly than prices for consumer goods beef and veal are enough by themselves to discourage the as a whole, except in Ireland and the United Kingdom. conversion of dairy herds to beef production, given the composition of the Community herd (around 80% of the 5. The Commission does not think that low prices for cows are dairy or dairy/heef breeds).
Producer and consumer prices in the Member States (1973 = 100)
Belgium Denmark Germany France Ireland
Year C C C C C P G B P G B P G B P G B P G B
1974 96-7 112-7 105 93-8 115-3 102 97-2 107-0 99 96-3 113-6 107 86-1 1170 95 1975 111-6 127-1 117 106-9 126-3 115 109 2 113-3 105 109-2 126-9 116 112-9 141-4 103 1976 114-7 138-7 133 118-4 137-7 128 1100 118-5 113 114-8 1391 128 150-6 166-8 141 1977 118-7 148-6 140 128-4 153 1 142 115-9 123-1 116 124-1 152-4 142 185-9 189-5 175 1978 121-4 155-2 149 140-6 168-4 166 114-5 126-4 121 137-2 166-5 158 218-7 204-0 210
Italy Luxembourg Netherlands United Kingdom
Year C C C C •• P G B P G B P G B P G B
1974 107-2 119-2 110 94-0 109-5 106 90-8 109-8 98 87-8 1160 104 1975 143-3 139-3 139 99-7 121-3 114 101-8 120-7 104 104-5 144-1 114 1976 164-6 162-7 167 107-4 133-2 124 107-3 131-5 113 142-6 1680 153 1977 177-5 192-7 184 118-8 142-2 132 112-9 140-3 118 154-1 194-5 180 1978 200-4 2160 204 119-3 146-6 — 1150 146-3 125 1801 210-6 212
P = Production, C = Consumption, G = General consumer price index, B = Beef and veal consumer price index.
Source: Producer prices: weighted average price for cattle expressed in national currency for each Member State - DG VI-D-2.
Consumer prices for the following qualities:
Belgium: 'entrecote' - DG VI-A-4 . Denmark: 'oksekud' - DG VI-A-4 Germany: 'Roast beef - DG VI-A-4 France: 'faux-filet' - DG VI-A-4 Ireland: 'sirloin steak' - DG VI-A-4 Italy: 'toglio senz' osso* — DG VI-A-4 Luxembourg: 'roti sans os' - Bulletin du Statec Netherlands: 'biefstuck' - DG Vl-A-4 United Kingdom: 'sirloin steak' - DG VI-A-4 18. 2. 80 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 41/25
WRITTEN QUESTION No 1164/79 by Mr O'Leary to the Commission of the European Communities (23 November 1979)
Subject: Unfair Dismissals Act (Ireland), 1977
With regard to the implementation of the EEC Directive on protection of employment (*), and in particular to the implementation of the EEC Directive in the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977, would the Commission state what evaluation has been done to date to ascertain the impact to date on Ireland of the Unfair Dismissals Act?
With regard to the acquired rights of employees, would the Commission state what progress has been made to date in Member States, particularly in Ireland, to implement the terms of Directive 77/187/EEC adopted by the Council on 14 February 1977 (*)?
(x) OJ No L 61, 5. 3. 1977, p. 26.
Answer (16 January 1980)
The Commission is currently examining the question of whether the Member States have taken the necessary measures to comply with the provisions of: — the Council Directive of 17 February 1975 on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to collective redundancies, and — the Council Directive of 14 February 1977 relating to the safeguarding of employees' rights in the event of transfer of undertakings, businesses or parts of businesses.
The Council and, for information purposes, the Honourable Member, will be notified of the findings of this study.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 1191/79 by Mrs Schleicher to the Commission of the European Communities (23 November 1979)
Subject: Harmonization of legislation on plant protection and foodstuffs
It is well known that goods imported into the EEC may contain in varying quantities residues of substances used to treat plants and animal foodstuffs, the use of which is formally prohibited in certain countries. This may lead to distortions of competition and to insecurity on the part of the consumer. No C 41/26 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 2. 80
Will the Commission answer the following questions:
1. How does it consider that agriculture can be protected from further competitive disadvantages and the consumer from danger to health by harmonizing legislation on plant protection and foodstuffs?
2. Is such a Directive being applied, and if not, when does the Commission intend to make the corresponding proposals to the Council?
Answer (21 January 1980)
The Commission has already drafted a Directive fixing maximum acceptable levels of pesticide residues on and in foodstuffs of animal origin. In working out the maximum permitted limits the Commission bore in mind the points mentioned by the Honourable Member. The Commission's discussions on the matter are nearing completion and the draft Directive will be forwarded to the Council very shortly.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 1237/79 by Miss Quin to the Commission of the European Communities (30 November 1979)
Subject: Regional Development Fund and assisted areas of the United Kingdom
Will the Commission please give the total annual amounts of assistance allocated under the Regional Development Fund since the Fund came into existence to those parts of the United Kingdom that will not, after 1982, be eligible for assistance because of the change in the boundaries of assisted areas of the United Kingdom recently announced by the British Secretary of State for Industry?
Answer (21 January 1980)
The changes recently made to the regional aid system in the United Kingdom affect very many regions, areas and districts spread over a large part of the United Kingdom.
The Commission is collecting the information needed to reply to the Honourable Member's question.
The Commission will notify her of the results of its research as soon as possible. 18. 2. 80 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 41/27
WRITTEN QUESTION No 1263/79 by Mr Boyes to the Commission of the European Communities (5 December 1979)
Subject: Cost of coking coal in the production of steel
The cost of coking coal is a factor in the production of steel. Would die Commission state the level of subsidy given to producers in both the private and public sector in each of the Member States?
Answer (18 January 1980)
For the year 1978 the aids granted to Community coal undertakings by national governments for deliveries of coking coal to Community steel undertakings were as follows:
Total EUA per tonne MEUA of delivered coking coal
Belgium 82 22 Germany 496 16 France 85 13 United Kingdom 29 (») 3
Total 692 54
Of the 496 MEUA paid by the Federal Republic of Germany, 24 MEUA, i.e. 5%, were reimbursed from a special Community fund.
The aids are intended to partially, or almost, make up the difference between production costs and proceeds, the latter resulting from the application of Community pricing rules which prevent the undercutting of a common guide price. The per tonne rates of aid for delivered coking coal reflect the various conditions in the individual countries; aids are granted on the same basis to coal undertakings in both public and private ownership.
The rules referred to in this answer are laid down in Decision 73/287/ECSC of 25 July 1973 (2).
H Financial year 1978/79. (2) OJ No L 259, 15. 9. 1973. No C 41/28 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 2. 80
WRITTEN QUESTION No 1270/79 by Mr Loo to the Commission of the European Communities (5 December 1979)
Subject: Community study on the disease attacking plane trees
In several European countries, particularly France, Italy, Spain and Greece, plane trees have been attacked by a particularly virulent disease.
Thus far a study of this very specific disease, which only affects these trees in an urban environment, has been carried out by the Botany Laboratory of Provence University, commissioned by the Marseilles Office for Ecology and Open Spaces.
It would seem desirable for the Commission of the European Communities to take steps to set up a body to develop natural selection either using clones or new varieties of this tree which are resistant to the relevant parasite as is already done for fruit trees.
What measures does the Commission therefore intend to take to safeguard urban trees as it is highly likely that in about 20 years time towns in southern Europe will be completely devoid of plane trees?
Answer (18 January 1980)
By Council Decision of 30 October 1978 an agricultural research programme has been implemented for the period 1979 to 1983.
The funds allocated are limited and the priorities in the programme were approved by the Standing Committee on Agricultural Research.
The programme includes a research project on Dutch elm disease which is considered as an experimental pilot project in the field of forestry research.
A very restricted project concerning the disease of the cypress tree has been undertaken under the Mediterranean research programme.
Although the Commission is aware of the problem of plane tree disease, it does not at present have the necessary funds to undertake studies or research at Community level.
However, the Dutch elm and cypress research work will probably provide information and knowledge which could be used in correction with preliminary studies on the plane tree. 18. 2. 80 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 41/29
WRITTEN QUESTION No 1292/79 by Mrs Lizin to the Commission of the European Communities (6 December 1979)
Subject: EAGGF aid to the Huy-Waremme district
Can the Commission indicate:
1. the projects assisted by the Fund in the Huy-Waremme district since 1977: — as a percentage of all projects assisted in Belgium; — the names of individual projects;
2. applications for aid for this district rejected by the Fund over the same period with the same details as in 1? What were the reasons for refusal in each case?
3. what aid has been granted to the sugar beet industry in this district? Has support been provided over the same period for any projects intended to improve yields?
4. its attitude towards animal feedstuff producers in the district? How many have received aid? How many have been refused aid and for what reasons?
5. what has been its policy towards milk producers? How many projects in this sector have been assisted? How many have been refused and why?
6. whether any small producers' premiums have been granted in this district over the same period?
7. what types of infrastructure investment have been subsidized since 1977?
Answer (16 January 1980)
The Commission does not normally have information available on the breakdown by district of EAGGF Guidance Section operations. To answer the Honourable Member's question the Commission has had to assemble ad hoc statistics on direct operations, i.e. those where the Commission pays the subsidy direct to the recipient.
The EAGGF Guidance Section has helped finance a number of projects under Regulation No 17/64/EEC (*) for the improvement of agricultural structures in Belgium.
1 and 7. Details of the number of projects financed in the Huy Waremme district since 1977 and the amount of aid given are as follows:
(») OJ No 34, 29. 2. 1964. No C 41/30 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 2. 80
Year Number Aid granted Number of Aid granted Huy- of projects Bfrs projects Bfrs Waremme
1977 5(a) 75 337 676 78 616 803 922 12-2 1978 — — 35 150 992 870 — 1979 (June) 1(b) 24 075 007 27 603 010 836 40
(a) Two of which also concerned communes situated in the district of Liege. (b) Also concerns communes situated in the district of Liege.
The amount of aid granted for projects financed in the Huy-Waremme district in the period 1977 to June 1979 (first group) thus amounts to 7-3% of the aid granted for projects financed in Belgium in the same period.
The titles of the projects that are the subject of the table above are:
— Regulation No 17/64/EEC B/35/77 — road and water take-off works in the province of Liege; — Regulation No 17/64/EEC B/36/77 — road, drainage and water take-off works in the province of Liege; — Regulation No 17/64/EEC B 57/77 — road, drainage and water take-off works in the commune of Hannut (province of Liege); — Regulation No 17/64/EEC B/59/77 — road and water take-off works in the province of Liege; — Regulation No 17/64/EEC B/67/77 — extension of an abattoir at Wandre (province of Liege); — Regulation No 17/64/EEC B/97/78 — improvement of farm roads in the communes of Aywaille, Burg-Reuland, Ferrieres and Saint Vith (province of Liege).
2. In 1977 all the projects submitted to the EAGGF Guidance Section for the Huy-Waremme district were financed.
In 1978 no projects under Regulation (EEC) No 355/77 (*) were submitted for the district.
Seventy million EUA was available for projects presented under Regulation (EEC) No 2992/78 extending the validity of Regulation No 17/64/EEC for the years 1978 and 1979. As approximately 1 000 projects were submitted by the Member States, most of them could not be financed owing to lack of funds. Of the 131 projects submitted by the Kingdom of Belgium, 25 were selected, the total amount of aid being Bfrs 524 053 128. Of the remaining 106, four were for the Huy-Waremme district. Their titles are as follows: — B/20/78 — road and water take-off works in the communes of Oreye and Crisnee; — B/40/78 — improvement of farm roads in the province of Liege; — B/105/78 — road and water take-off works in the communes of Berloz, Geer and Waremme; — B/106/78 — water take-off works in the communes of Fernelement and Eghezee (province of Namur), Ramillies and Orp-Jauche (province of Brabant) and Wasseiges (province of Liege).
(*) OJ No L 51, 23. 2. 1977. 18. 2. 80 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 41/31
The amount of aid applied for in respect of these projects was Bfrs 74 769 062. For the Belgian projects not selected because of insufficient funds the total amount of aid applied for was Bfrs 842 629 685. The percentage accounted for by Huy-Waremme is thus 8 • 8 %.
For 1979, 90 projects have been submitted to the EAGGF Guidance Section by the Kingdom of Belgium under Regulation (EEC) No 355/77. One of these is for the Huy-Waremme district. A first selection of projects was made in June (a), when seven Belgian projects were selected, the total amount of aid granted being Bfrs 87 645 695. A second selection will be made in December.
3 to 6. No aid of the types mentioned by the Honourable Member is given by the EAGGF Guidance Section. It may well be, however, that some producers in the sectors mentioned have benefited under general aid schemes such as those introduced under Directives No 159/72/EEC (2) and No 268/75/EEC (3). Details of aid given at this level are not available to the Commission.
(») OJ No L 217, 25. 8. 1979. (2) OJ No L 96, 23. 4. 1972. (3) OJ No L 128, 19. 5. 1975.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 1399/79 by Mr Almirante to the Foreign Ministers of the nine Member States of the European Communities meeting in political cooperation (18 December 1979)
Subject: Deportees from the town of Gorizia Although Italy has signed a treaty with Yugoslavia (the Osimo Treaty) by the terms of which Italy ceded to Yugoslavia territory of which not even the 1946 peace At the Congress for the protection of human rights held treaty had stripped it and although relations between the in September 1968 in Grado, Italy, the association of the two countries are regarded as cordial by both parties, the families of deportees from the town of Gorizia presented families of the Gorizia deportees have been unable after a memorandum describing how many thousands of the more than 30 years to obtain permission to recover the citizens of Gorizia had been deported to Yugoslavia at remains of their relatives for a Christian burial. the end of the war, killed and their bodies thrown into the Carso sinkholes. Are the Foreign Ministers of the Community prepared to prevail upon the Yugoslav authorities to show at last some human decency, an act which might go some way Other approaches along these lines have been made in towards helping to make amends for the post-war previous years to political and religious authorities to no massacre and towards reducing resentment and hatred in avail. this sensitive area of Europe?
Answer (23 January 1980)
The specific issue raised by the Honourable Member is not a subject discussed in the framework of European political cooperation. Consequently, he will appreciate that the Presidency is not in a position to reply to his question. No C 41/32 Official Journal of the European Communities 18. 2. 80
WRITTEN QUESTION No 1404/79 by Mr Romualdi, Mr Almirante, Mr Petronio and Mr Buttafuoco to die Foreign Ministers of the nine Member States of the European Communities meeting in political cooperation (18 December 1979)
Subject: Hostages held at the US embassy in Tehran
Can the Foreign Ministers state how they intend to give practical expression to the deep sense of shock and outrage felt by the European Communities at what has now been going on for several days at the US embassy in Tehran, and which is the work of a group of dedicated fanatics under the orders of a government which, by authorizing these actions - as would seem established — has placed itself once and for all beyond the bounds of every international law, social convention and civil or political morality?
Answer (23 January 1980)
The Nine view recent events in Iran with the utmost failure to protect diplomatic missions and the taking of concern. The Heads of Missions of the European hostages to exert pressure on governments to be totally Communities resident in Tehran have jointly called to unacceptable and that it is the duty of all governments to the Iranian Foreign Ministry on a number of occasions to oppose energetically such as breach of international law. emphasize in the strongest terms the deep concern of their governments at the seizure of US diplomatic While fully respecting the independence of Iran and the personnel and premises in Iran and to press for a speedy rights of the Iranian people, the European Council called return to the normal observance of international law upon Iran to respect the rights of others and to observe governing protection of diplomatic missions. the established principles which govern relations between States. The Iranian authorities were urged most At their meeting in Brussels on 20 November, the strongly to act immediately to release the hostages in Foreign Ministers of the Nine rejected the holding of the complete safety and to allow them to return to their own hostages as a violation of international law and called for country. their release. The Nine will continue to make every possible effort The European Council which considered the issue at its through diplomatic channels in Tehran and elsewhere to meeting in Dublin on 29 and 30 November declared the ensure the safe release of the hostages.