ISSN 0378-6986 Official Journal C 151 Volume 28 of the European Communities 20 June 1985

English edition Information and Notices

Pa e Notice No Contents «

I Information

European Parliament

Written Questions with answer

85/C 151/01 No 1083/84 by Mrs Magdalene Hoff, Mr Johannes Peters, Mr Dieter Rogalla and Mr Gunter Topmann to the Commission Subject: Regional economic assistance schemes 1

85/C 151/02 No 1143/84 by Mr Patrick Lalor to the Commission Subject: Crafts sector *•

85/C 151/03 No 1272/84 by Mrs Marijke Van Hemeldonck to the Commission Subject: Natural gas pricing policy 3

85/C 151/04 No 1373/84 by Mr Heinz Vetter, Mr Karl-Heinrich Mihr, Mr Johannes Peters, Mr Kurt Vittinghoff and Mr Manfred Wagner to the Commission Subject: Safety provisions for employees working in genetic technology and biotechnology laboratories / ^

85/C 151/05 No 1403/84 by Mr Giovanni Cervetti, Mr Andrea Raggio, Mrs Vera Squarcialupi and Mr Aldo Bonaccini to the Commission Subject: Protection of health, the environment and public order in the Maddalena archipelago 4

85/C 151/06 No 1492/84 by Mr Niall Andrews to the Commission Subject: Lead smelter in Ranelagh 5

85/C 151/07 No 1493/84 by Mr Niall Andrews to the Commission Subject: Harassment of Irish Members of the European Parliament at London airport in transit from Dublin to Brussels ^

85/C 151/08 No 1551/84 by Mr Ernest Miihlen to the Commission Subject: Customs formalities at the new Mesenich frontier point 6

85/C 151/09 No 1563/84 by Mrs Marijke Van Hemeldonck to the Commission Subject: Diamond distribution system °

85/C 151/10 No 1567/84 by Mrs Marijke Van Hemeldonck to the Commission Subject: Imports of diamonds from India '

1 {Continued overleaf) Notice No Contents (continued) Page

85/C 151/11 No 1570/84 by Mr Alasdair Hutton to the Commission Subject: Forestry publications 7

85/C 151/12 No 1580/84 by Mrs Elise Boot to the Commission Subject: Free movement of payment — consequences of the Luisi and Carbone judgment ... 8

85/C 151/13 No 1601/84 by Mr Jaak Vandemeulebroucke to the Commission Subject: Assessment of the Commission's administrative practices prior to the end of its term 9

85/C 151/14 No 1623/84 by Mrs Anne-Marie Lizin to the Commission Subject: Analysis of the protein content of cereals 9

85/C 151/15 No 1636/84 by Mr James Elles to the Commission Subject: Ban on straw and stubble burning 10

85/C 151/16 No 1640/84 by Mr Patrick Lalor to the Commission Subject: Travel industry, present and future 10

85/C 151/17 No 1641/84 by Mrs Rika De Backer-Van Ocken to the Commission Subject: Inter-city rail link between Antwerp and Cologne via Hasselt/Maastricht 11

85/C 151/18 No 1653/84 by Mr Gene Fitzgerald to the Commission Subject: Employment zones 11

85/C 151/19 No 1655/84 by Mr Niall Andrews to the Commission Subject: Pollution in the Ranelagh district of Dublin 12

85/C 151/20 No 1662/84 by Mrs Marijke Van Hemeldonck to the Commission Subject: Staff policy at the Hitachi works in Wales 12

85/C 151/21 No 1671/84 by Mr Karel De Gucht, Mr Jorgen Nielsen, Mrs Jessica Larive- Groenendal to the Commission Subject: Outcome of the International Conference on the Protection of the North Sea held in Bremen on 31 October and 1 November 1984 13

85/C 151/22 No 1677/84 by Mr Alexandros Alavanos to the Commission Subject: Reduction by the EEC of import restrictions 14

85/C 151/23 No 1702/84 by Mr Michael Welsh to the Commission Subject: Aid by the Belgian Government to Intermills SA 15

85/C 151/24 No 1715/84 by Mr Gijs de Vries to the Commission Subject: Cooperation agreement between the Community and the Yemen Arab Republic.... 15

85/C 151/25 No 1716/84 by Mr Jaak Vandemeulebroucke to the Commission Subject: Increasing diversity and complexity in the organization of the Commission's depart­ ments 16

85/C 151/26 No 1763/84 by Mrs Marijke Van Hemeldonck to the Commission Subject: Toxic substances 17

85/C 151/27 No 1772/84 by Mr John Marshall to the Commission Subject: Overseas aid expenditure 17

85/C 151/28 No 1774/84 by Mr John Marshall to the Commission Subject: UN aid target 17

85/C 151/29 No 1773/84 by Mr John Marshall to the Commission Subject: Cash crop holdings 18

85/C 151/30 No 1783/84 by Mr James Provan to the Commission Subject: Raspberry imports 19

(Continued on inside back cover) Page Notice No Contents (continued)

85/C 151/31 No 1811/84 by Mr Jean-Claude Pasty to the Commission Subject: Production of ethanol from cereals or sugar beet 19

85/C 151/32 No 1836/84 by Mr Michael Hindley, Mr Edward Newman, Mr David Martin, Mr Leslie Huckfield and Mr Hugh McMahon to the Commission Subject: Use of the European Regional Development Fund 20

85/C 151/33 No 1843/84 by Mr Edward Newman to the Commission Subject: Standing charges for domestic consumers of gas, electricity and fuel 21

85/C 151/34 No 1851/84 by Mrs Marie Jepsen to the Commission Subject: The Commission's right to change the price of rape 21

85/C 151/35 No 1876/84 by Mr Winston Griffiths to the Commission Subject: USA export control policy of hi-tech products 22

85/C 151/36 No 1900/84 by Mrs Winifred Ewing to the Commission Subject: Spanish fishing activity in waters outside those of the enlarged Community 22

85/C 151/37 No 1912/84 by Mr James Elles to the Commission Subject: Stocks of agricultural products 23

85/C 151/38 No 1913/84 by Mrs Christine Crawley to the Foreign Ministers of the 10 Member States of the European Community meeting in political cooperation Subject: Yosif Begun 23

85/C 151/39 No 1932/84 by Mr Francois Roelants du Vivier to the Commission Subject: Rabuons Dam — Mercantour National Park (France) 24

85/C 151/40 No 2020/84 by Mr Jaak Vandemeulebroucke to the Commission Subject: Methods of calculating the profitability of coal mines in the Community 24

85/C 151/41 No 2021/84 by Mr Jaak Vandemeulebroucke to the Commission Subject: EIB loans to Belgian firms active in the nuclear sector. 25

85/C 151/42 No 2023/84 by Mr Jaak Vandemeulebroucke to the Commission Subject: World Bank report on the Philippines 26

85/C 151/43 No 2040/84 by Mr Louis Eyraud to the Commission Subject: Problems facing sheepmeat producers 27

85/C 151/44 No 2060/84 by Mr Francois Roelants du Vivier to the Commission Subject: Compulsory vaccination • 27

85/C 151/45 No 2175/84 by Mrs Christine Crawley to the Foreign Ministers of the 10 Member States of the European Community meeting in political cooperation Subject: Zahar Zunshain 28

85/C 151/46 No 2176/84 by Mrs Christine Crawley to the Foreign Ministers of the 10 Member States of the European Community meeting in political cooperation Subject: Iran-Iraq conflict 28

85/C 151/47 No 2243/84 by Mr Anne-Marie Lizin to the Foreign Ministers of the 10 Member States of the European Community meeting in political cooperation Subject: Alarming situation of Jorge Palma Donoso, Carlos Araneda Miranda and Hugo Marchant Moya, prisoners in Chile 29

85/C 151/48 No 2332/84 by Mr Jens-Peter Bonde to the Commission Subject: Foreign trade 29

85/C 151/49 No 2334/84 by Mr Jens-Peter Bonde to the Commission Subject: Industrial concentration 29

85/C 151/50 No 2338/84 by Mr Andrew Pearce to the Commission Subject: Lotteries 30 No C 151/1 20. 6. 85 Official Journal of the European Communities

(Information)

EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT

WRITTEN QUESTIONS WITH ANSWER

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1083/84 Answer given by Mr Sutherland by Mrs Magdalene Hoff (S — D), Mr Johannes on behalf of the Commission Peters (S — D), Mr Dieter Rogalla (S — D) and Mr (1 April 1985) Gunter Topmann (S — D) to the Commission of the European Communities 1. The Commission considered all the arguments put forward by the governments of the Federal (19 November 1984) Republic of Germany and the Land of North Rhine- (85/C 151/01) Westphalia in support of further economic assistance in the Borken-Bocholt and Siegen labour market areas. All the parties concerned were informed of the initiation of the procedure and given notice to Subject: Regional economic assistance schemes submit their comments (Official Journal of the Euro­ pean Communities No C 169 of 29 June 1983). However, no comments were forthcoming. On 23 July 1984 the Commission decided to prohibit regional economic assistance in North Rhine- Westphalia for the Borken-Bocholt and Siegen 2. Pursuant to Article 173 of the EEC Treaty, the regions of the labour market. Government of the Federal Republic can bring an action against the Commission's decision before the 1. Were all the arguments of the German Federal European Court of Justice. It did so on 16 October Government and of the Land government of the 1984. North Rhine-Westphalia in support of further economic assistance in the Borken-Bocholt and 3. By letter dated 25 September 1984, the Com­ Siegen regions of the labour market brought for­ mission initiated the procedure provided in Article ward when the case was being considered? Were 93 (2) of the EEC Treaty in respect of the inclusion of the parties concerned (companies and trade six municipalities in the regional economic assistance unions) also consulted? programme of the Land of North Rhine-Westphalia. The Government of the Federal Republic of Ger­ 2. What legal avenues are open to the Federal many was requested to express its views within eight Government or the North Rhine-Westphalia weeks of receipt of the letter. Its answer has been Land government for an appeal against the Com­ received by the Commission and is now being pro­ mission's decision? cessed.

3. What other investigations into regional economic In its examination of the joint Federal Government/ assistance schemes in North Rhine-Westphalia is Lander' scheme for improving regional economic the Commission planning to carry out and what structures, the Commission expressed reservations stage has been reached in any such investigations? regarding the provision of assistance in the Kleve- No C 151/2 Official Journal of the European Communities 20. 6. 85

Emerich and Holzminden-Hoxter labour market In addition to these general craft-industry-related areas. It intends to take a final decision soon. aid provisions of the ERDF in Ireland, there is a specific Community regional development measure There are at present no grounds fpr any other investi­ for the improvement of the economic and social gations into regional economic assistance measures situation of the border areas of Ireland and Northern 3 in North Rhine-Westphalia. Ireland (2619/80/EEC of 7 October 1980) ( ) which was decided under the non-quota section of the Fund. In the border counties of Ireland this measure provides aid for the establishment and the develop­ ment of craft industry and of related facilities, includ­ ing the provision of information and advice to craft enterprises. The amount of aid earmarked for this provision was £ Irl 0,6 million in the programme implementing the specific measure over the period WRITTEN QUESTION No 1143/84 1981 to 1985. by Mr Patrick Lalor (RDE — IRL) to the Commission of the European Communities (20 November 1984) Social Fund (85/C 151/02) The task of the Social Fund is to participate in Subject: Crafts sector particular in the financing of vocational training, the promotion of employment and geographical mobility. Will the Commission give details of all aid available from the Community to help the development of the craft sector in the economies of the Member States Fund assistance must therefore be granted to pro­ and will it also identify the ways in which the crafts mote employment for young people under the age sector has been aided to date in Ireland? of 25 and for persons over the age of 25 who are:

— unemployed, under-employed or threatened with unemployment, Answer given by Mr Dejors on behalf of the Commission — women who wish to return to work, (16 April 1985) —: handicapped people,

— migrant workers, European Regional Development Fund — people employed particularly in small or The new European Regional Development Fund medium-sized undertakings, who require retrain­ Regulation No 1787/84/EEC of 19 June 1984(*), ing with a view to the introduction of new tech­ which entered into force on 1 January 1985, provides nology. for assistance to craft industry both in the context of programmes and of projects. The normal aid rate is 50% of the aid granted to the investment by public In so far as people of the craft sector comply with authorities under a regional aid scheme. In the case these conditions their training is eligible for Social of projects, the investment must cost more than Fund Financing. 50 000 ECU. Also, under the measures to exploit the potential for internally generated development, the The Commission's records do not enable it to give Fund may contribute to the financing of measures any details about the ways in which the craft sector assisting craft industries to expand their activities has been aided to date in Ireland. and to obtain access to new technology and to the capital market. The ERDF's contribution to such measures may not exceed 50 to 55% of the public financing of the investment. EAGGF

Under the existing ERDF Regulation No 724/75/ A certain amount of aid for craft industries is also EEC of 18 March 1975 (2), Ireland has since been provided for under the EAGGF Guidance Section. able to benefit from a similar provision providing More specifically, Article 10 (2) of Council Directive assistance to craft industry. However, it is not poss­ 75/268/EEC of 20 April 1975 (4) on mountain and ible, statistically, to identify the exact amount of aid, hill farming and farming in certain less-favoured if any, which Ireland has drawn under this particular areas lays down that, in less-favoured farming areas provision. which are suitable for the development of a tourist 20. 6. 85 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 151/3 or craft industry, the system of incentives provided whereby Dutch companies enjoy more favourable for in Article 8 of Directive 72/159/EEC and adapted rates ? by Article 9 (1) of Directive 75/268/EEC may also be applied to investment on farms, for tourist or craft Is the Commission aware that plans for the ammonia industry purposes, of a total amount not exceeding 5 line in the Marly factories in Brussels to be started 10 000 units of account per farm ( ). up again have been jeopardized because of this, with the result that the anticipated recruitment of 100 The Commission has no figures at its disposal con­ additional workers has not gone through and that cerning aid granted to Ireland on the basis of this another 300 employees have had to be laid off? provision. Is the Commission aware that the additional finan­ cial burden caused by the differences in gas prices EIB and NCI loans amounted to Bfrs 850 million in 1982/83?

Loan finance has been made available for the devel­ opment of the craft sector in the Community in the form of global loans advanced from the resources of the European Investment Bank and from those of the New Community Instrument (NCI). These are Answer given by Mr Sutherland basically lines of credit opened to national financial on behalf of the Commission institutions for on-lending to support investment by small and medium-sized enterprises in all the (16 April 1985) productive sectors of the economy, including that of crafts. In November 1983, following complaints received from the Belgian Government, the French Govern­ As far as the crafts industry is concerned, enterprises ment, a German chemical company and a French employing fewer than 20 people in the food, wood, industrial association as well as its own investi­ textiles, leather, glass, ceramics, - paper and other gations, the Commission opened the procedure 'crafts' sectors (e.g. toys, jewellery, photography), under Article 93(2) of the EEC Treaty against the have benefited from a total of 380 million ECU, from two-tier system of gas prices for ammonia producers EIB and NCI resources. Since 1973 a total of 720 operated by Gasunie in the Netherlands. investment ventures in the Community have received financial assistance from these resources. In Ireland, 148 such enterprises have drawn a total of £ Irl 7,85 In April 1984, the Commission closed the Article million (11,37 million ECU) from EIB global loans 93(2) procedure following information from the in this period. Dutch Government that as from 1 November 1983 Gasunie had abolished the two-tier system for (J) OJ No L 169, 28. 6. 1984. ammonia producers and had amended the general (2) OJ No L 73, 21. 3. 1975. structure of gas tariffs available to all large industrial (3) OJ No L 271, 15. 10. 1980. users. The Commission decision to close the pro­ (4) OJ No L 128, 19. 5. 1975. cedure followed examination of the new tariff for (5) 14 564 ECU as from 1 January 1984. very large industrial users which showed that it was based on supply cost economies, did not contain any elements of State aid and was in conformity with the principles of the Commission communication on the pricing developments in Community policy 1981- 82 (*) and with Council recommendation 83/230/ EEC on the methods of forming natural gas prices and tariffs in the Community (2).

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1272/84 The information referred to by the Honourable by Mrs Marijke Van Hemeldonck (S — B) Member, particularly in the second and third para­ to the Commission of the European Communities graphs of her question, was known to the Com­ mission and taken into consideration in its decisions. (27 November 1984) (85/C 151/03) 0) COM(82) 651 final. (2) OJNoL123, 11.5. 1983. Subject: Natural gas pricing policy

Is the Commission aware of the serious consequences of the natural gas pricing policy in the Netherlands No C 151/4 Official Journal of the European Communities 20. 6. 85

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1373/84 At Community level, there is already a Council rec­ by Mr Heinz Vetter, Mr Karl-Heinrich Mihr, Mr ommendation of 30 June 1983 concerning the regis­ tration of work involving recombinant deoxyribo­ Johannes Peters, Mr Kurt Vittinghoff and Mr Man­ nucleic acid(2). fred Wagner (S — D) to the Commission of the European Communities It is not the Commission's intention at present to (5 December 1984) put forward specific proposals in this field. (85/C 151/04) (!) OJ No L 327, 3. 12. 1980. (2) OJ No L 213, 21. 7. 1982.

Subject: Safety provisions for employees working in genetic technology and biotechnology laboratories

1. Can the Commission list for each individual Member State of the Community how many under­ takings and research establishments are working on genetic technology and biotechnology? WRITTEN QUESTION No 1403/84 by Mr Giovanni Cervetti, Mr Andrea Raggio, Mrs 2. How many people are employed in the individ­ Vera Squarcialupi and Mr Aldo Bonaccini ual Member States in genetic technology and (COM — I) biotechnology laboratories or factories? to the Commission of the European Communities (10 December 1984) 3. Does the Commission consider that the safety provisions for employees working in genetic tech­ (85/C 151/05) nology and biotechnology laboratories are adequate? Subject: Protection of health, the environment and public order in the Maddalena archipelago

In 1972 a logistic military base for American nuclear Answer given by Mr Sutherland submarines was installed on the island of Madda­ on behalf of the Commission lena. (10 April 1985) After 12 years one can only note the failure to set up an adequate and efficient system for the protection of 1 and 2. The Commission has no information on health, the environment and public order against the the number of firms and research institutes engaged dangers of radioactivity and accidents. in work on biotechnology and genetic engineering in the Member States or on the number of persons The monitoring network for measuring radio­ working in such establishments. activity, which should have been in operation more than two years ago, has not been completed, nor are the necessary funds available for its completion. In The information communicated to the Commission addition, the emergency plan for the evacuation of on the number of genetic-engineering research pro­ the civilian population in the event of accidents has jects put in hand in the Member States gives no not been drawn up—or at any rate has not been indication of the number of institutes or persons brought to the notice of the civilian authorities and involved. the public.

3. There are no special provisions at Community It has been confirmed that a new US military contin­ level for the protection of the health and safety of gent has arrived on the island, which would seem to workers in firms and laboratories concerned with indicate—taking into account various facts—that biotechnology. the Maddalena base is to be converted into an oper­ ational base with 'theatre missiles' with nuclear war­ However, the protection of the health and safety of heads being fitted to the submarines based in the workers against risks associated with exposure to archipelago. biological agents at work is covered by Council Directive 80/1107/EEC of 27 November 1980 (*) 1. Given that the stationing of nuclear missiles must which lists measures to be taken into consideration be made subject to the decision of the Italian when a Member State adopts, for the protection of Parliament and the consultation of the local and workers, specific provisions concerning an agent. regional bodies, does the Commission not believe 20. 6. 85 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 151/5

that the failure to set up an efficient system of Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis protection against the dangers of radioactivity on behalf of the Commission and nuclear accidents is inconsistent with the (1 April 1985) guidelines and the actions planned by the Com­ munity for environmental protection in the Mediterranean area? There is no Community legislation as such which bans emissions from lead smelters in residential dis­ 2. What initiatives would the Commission be able tricts. to undertake to protect public health and the environment from the dangers of radioactivity? The siting and operation of such smelters is a matter for the local or national authorities with the requisite responsibilities and they will, undoubtedly, take into consideration the national/local regulations con­ Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis cerned, as well as the relevant Community legis­ on behalf of the Commission lation. In this connection the Commission would (10 April 1985) draw the attention of the Honourable Member to Directive 82/884/EEC dealing with air quality stan­ dards for lead^). The Community's basic standards for the health protection of the general public and workers against (!) OJNoL378, 31. 12. 1982. the dangers of ionizing radiation (*) lay down, inter alia, the basic principles for protection of the public in emergencies. The Member States are required to take all necessary steps to apply these principles; the means employed must be commensurate with the magnitude of the risks incurred.

In the case of the island ;:£ Maddalena, it is thus a matter for the Italian authorities alone to assess the WRITTEN QUESTION No 1493/84 risks of exposure incurred—or likely to be by Mr Niall Andrews (RDE — IRL) incurred—by the local population and to take, where to the Commission of the European Communities appropriate, the requisite protection measures. (7 January 1985) (!) Council Directive of 15 July 1980 (OJ No L 246, 17. 9. (85/C 151/07) 1980). Subject: Harassment of Irish Members of the Euro­ pean Parliament at London airport in tran­ sit from Dublin to Brussels

In view of the fact that an inquiry has been called for into an incident involving a German Member of the European Parliament who was travelling on WRITTEN QUESTION No 1492/84 official business through the Netherlands to Brussels by Mr Niall Andrews (RDE — IRL) and who was stopped and subjected to harassment despite his diplomatic passport, by a Dutch customs to the Commission of the European Communities official: (7 January 1985) (85/C 151/06) 1. Will the Commission now inform the British authorities of a similar incident which took place Subject: Lead smelter in Ranelagh on Monday, 29 October 1984 at London airport during which the author of this question, Mr Niall Andrews, TD, MEP and Mr Richie Ryan, There is a considerable disquiet in the Ranelagh area MEP, were requested to fill in landing forms and of Dublin caused by continuous emissions of lead were subjected to totally unacceptable harass­ from a smelter situated in the heart of a residential ment in contravention of our right to freedom of area. Parents are very concerned about their chil­ movement as Members of the European Parlia­ dren's health and are offended by the emissions from ment by British airport officials? the lead smelter. 2. Furthermore, will the Commission ensure that Will the Commission indicate whether or not any an inquiry into this incident is undertaken so EEC Directives exist which ban the emissions of such that any repetition of these most undesirable smelters in residential areas? incidents is avoided in the future? No C 151/6 Official Journal of the European Communities 20. 6. 85

Answer given by Mr Christophersen Answer given by Lord Cockfield on behalf of the Commission on behalf of the Commission (11 April 1985) (23 April 1985)

The setting up of a central customs clearance office The Commission has informed the UK authorities for imports in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg is of the unpleasant incident involving the Honourable welcomed by the Commission as a matter of prin­ Members. It has asked for the matter to be looked ciple. Such moves are likely to ease the burden of into and for a report to be provided. clearance procedures at frontier posts. This objec­ tive, which has also been endorsed by Parliament, is consistent with the Commission's established policy and is reflected, for example, in the Community transit procedure. The proposal for a 14th Directive on shifting the collection of value added tax has also been drawn up with this objective in mind. The competent authorities in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg have indicated that, even if the Lux­ WRITTEN QUESTION No 1551/84 embourg-Trier motorway were to be opened to by Mr Ernest Muhlen (PPE — L) freight traffic before the new central customs clear­ to the Commission of the European Communities ance office became operative, they have no intention (8 January 1985) of authorizing forwarding agents to carry out cus­ toms clearance formalities on an interim basis at the (85/C 151/08) Mesenich frontier post, among other things because of local topographical conditions. The Commission would point out that there is in any case no need for Subject: Customs formalities at the new Mesenich customs clearance formalities when the Community frontier point transit procedure is applied. For the rest, the Luxem­ bourg authorities have stated that the customs office at Wasserbillig can be used if customs clearance is Is the Commission aware that for more than two found to be absolutely necessary and if carriers are years the 'Verband Spedition und Lagerei Rheinland- willing to make what would seem to be only a minor Pfalz EV (Rhineland-Palatinate Forwarding and detour. Storage Agents' Association), which represents the interests of forwarding agencies, has been unsuccess­ fully attempting to obtain for its members per­ mission to effect customs clearance operations at the new Mesenich frontier point on the A 48 motorway between Luxembourg and Trier, and that this request has been rejected on the grounds that a WRITTEN QUESTION No 1563/84 central customs clearance office for all motorways connecting Luxembourg with other countries is to by Mrs Marijke Van Hemeldonck (S — B) be opened in Luxembourg-Gasperich? to the Commission of the European Communities (8 January 1985) Can the Commission confirm the information given (85/C 151/09) to those concerned, that authorization for forward­ ing agencies to operate oh the A 48 would not be Subject: Diamond distribution system in accordance with Community policy concerning Does the Commission think that the current distri­ border controls? bution system for uncut diamonds operated by the Community's leading importer, the Diamond Trad­ Is the Commission certain that it will be possible to ing Company, complies with the European Com­ put the new central customs clearance office in the munity's rules on competition? centre of Luxembourg into service before the open­ ing of the Luxembourg-Trier motorway or the new Mesenich frontier point, or is it otherwise prepared Answer given by Mr Sutherland to cooperate with the Luxembourg Government in on behalf of the Commission finding a provisional solution authorizing forward­ ing agencies, on an interim basis at least, to carry (29 March 1985) out customs clearance formalities for freight trans­ port, at the new frontier point as at the frontier The market for uncut diamonds and supplies for the point on the motorway at Dudelange (between Lux­ diamond industry give rise to numerous complicated embourg and Thionville)? problems, both economic and legal. 20. 6. 85 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 151/7

It is common knowledge that, despite the structure eye to achieving balances in individual sectors. It of supply on this market and the role played in that should be recognized that in recent years India has connection by the firm to which the Honourable substantially liberalized its import regime with the Member refers, the industry has encountered serious result that the Community has increased the total difficulties leading to a drop in prices over recent value of its exports to that country much more years, a build-up of stocks and financing problems rapidly than its own intake of Community imports. for many businesses. The Commission therefore does not consider that it In the light of this situation the Commission is would be appropriate to press for reciprocity of contemplating a review of the industry's structure access in the diamond sector and, in any case, has before deciding whether any formal proceeding not up to now been made aware of serious obstacles should be taken against certain agreements or prac­ faced by Community exporters. tices under the competition rules laid down by Ar­ ticles 85 and 86 of the EEC Treaty.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1570/84 by Mr Alasdair Hutton (ED — GB) to the Commission of the European Communities WRITTEN QUESTION No 1567/84 (8 January 1985) by Mrs Marijke Van Hemeldonck (S — B) (85/C 151/11) to the Commission of the European Communities (8 January 1985) Subject: Forestry publications (85/C 151/10) What forestry publications has the Commission undertaken since its policy review in 1979? Subject: Imports of diamonds from India What programme of forestry publications has the What is the Commission's attitude to bulk imports Commission planned for the future? of diamonds from India which are threatening jobs in the processing industry and retail trade?

Since diamonds do not receive preferential import Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis treatment, will the Commission call for a reciprocal on behalf of the Commission opening-up of the Indian market to imports? (17 April 1985)

Since the publication on 6 December 1978 of its communication to the Council on forestry policy in Answer given by Mr Cheysson the European Community (J), the Commission has on behalf of the Commission brought out a map of Europe's forests (2) and a (16 April 1985) special 'Green_ Europe' newsletter on the problems faced by Europe's forests (3). It has also published a series of annual forestry statistics (4). As the Honourable Member is doubtless aware, there is a long-established two-way trade in diamonds In addition, the Commission's proposals have been between the Community and India, the Community published in the Official Journal of the European exporting a large volume of raw diamonds and later Communities (5). re-importing some of them cut and polished. The volume of Community imports has nevertheless fluc­ Moreover, the Commission has for a number of tuated significantly, and even in 1983 had not years devoted a full chapter of its 'Annual report on returned to the level in the peak year 1978. the agricultural situation in the Community'(6) to forestry. However, the Commission does not believe that the Community's trade with its partners among the As regards the future, the Commission intends to developing countries should be conducted with an develop its forestry publications wherever possible, No C 151/8 Official Journal of the European Communities 20. 6. 85 especially in view of the growing importance of 6. What does it think of the fact that, according to forestry's role in the Community. a report in the Financial Times of 1 December 1984, restrictions still apply in Italy to tourists (*) Supplement 3/79, Bulletin of the European Communities wishing to take with them more than 700 ECU (Office for Official Publications of the European Com­ per trip in foreign currency? munities, BP 1003, Luxembourg). (2) Published in 1983 by the Office for Official Publications of the European Communities. (3) No 204, October 1984, published by the Agricultural Information Service of the Directorate-General for Infor­ mation of the Commission of the European Communities. 4 ( ) Forestry statistics (Eurostat)—Office for Official Publi­ Answer given by Mr Delors cations of the European Communities. on behalf of the Commission (5) OJ No C 187, 13. 7. 1983, p. 9; OJ No C 208, 8. 8. 1984, p. 8. (23 April 1985) (6) The agricultural situation in the Community—1983 Report (Office for Official Publications of the European Communities; pub. 1984, pp. 427 ff.). 1. In the Luisi and Carbone case(1) the Court of Justice ruled on the principles applying to freedom to provide services in connection with tourism and travel for other purposes. No direct link appears to exist between that judgment and the Cassis judg­ ment (2), in which the Court establishes the principle WRITTEN QUESTION No 1580/84 that the Member States may not create barriers to intra-Community trade on the pretext that the goods by Mr Elise Boot (PPE — NL) imported do not fulfil the conditions laid down in to the Commission of the European Communities their national rules. (8 January 1985) (85/C 151/12) 2 to 4. As it stated in its answer to Written Ques­ tion No 2351/83 by Mr Rogalla(3), the Commission Subject: Free movement of payments—consequen­ informed certain Member States (France, Italy, ces of the Luisi and Carbone judgment Greece and Ireland), in July 1984, of the con­ clusions which it drew from the judgment of the By judgment of the Court of Justice of 31 January Court, particularly as regards the foreign exchange 1984 in joined Cases 286/82 and 26/83, the Luisi and provisions then in force in those countries. The Carbone judgment, the Court laid down criteria for current situation in the abovementioned Member the assessment of national measures impeding the States—particularly France and Italy, where the rules free movement of foreign currency and payments have been eased since the Commission's represent­ between the Member States. ations—is described in the answer to Written Ques­ 4 1. Does the Commission share the view that this tion No 1099/84 by Mr Megahy( ), to which the judgment contained some rather fundamental Honourable Member is asked to refer. rulings about the free movement of payments such as are comparable with the rather funda­ The Commission is maintaining contact with the mental rulings contained in the Cassis judgment authorities in the Member States concerned so as to with regard to the free movement of goods? ensure that the national rules are brought fully into 2. Does it share the view that it would be desirable line with the Court's ruling as soon as possible. to put out a communication to the Member States on the consequences of the Luisi and Car­ bone judgment? 5. The Commission keeps the national rules on international payments under constant review to 3. If so, would it spell out in this communication ensure that such measures are not in breach of Com­ exactly what restrictions on payments imposed munity law. No infringement procedure is currently by the Member States should be eliminated? pending against any Member State for contravention 4. When could a possible communication on the of Article 106. consequences of the Luisi and Carbone judgment be expected? 6. The Commission made clear its position on the 5. Lastly, is the Commission examining national foreign exchange regulations in force in Italy in its measures that restrict the movement of payments answer to Written Question No 1099/84 by Mr between countries and has it instituted infringe­ Megahy. However, it may be pointed out here that ment procedures against Member States for con­ residents can make use of various means of payment travention of Article 106 of the EEC Treaty? If in foreign currency to meet their expenditure abroad; so, against which Member States? the maximum overall amount of such means of 20. 6. 85 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 151/9

payment is considerably higher than the sum referred Two of these promotions were to posts which had to by the Honourable Member, which is the allow­ become vacant on the departure of the previous ance per journey for foreign banknotes only. holder and the other five were to posts arising from internal reorganization. The other two posts were (!) OJNoC67, 8. 3. 1984, p. 11. filled by direct recruitment, one by appointment of (2) Case 120/78—OJ No C 87, 3. 4. 1979, p. 6. a temporary staff member from Mr Burke's office. (3) OJ No C 328, 10. 12. 1984, p. 1. (4) OJ No C 135, 3. 6. 1985. The annual round of promotions to the other grades in category A produced the following results in 1984:

to grade A 4: three of the 58 officials promoted were from Mem­ bers' offices;

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1601/84 to grade A 5: by Mr Jaak Vandemeulebroucke (ARC — B) one of the 63 officials promoted was from a Mem­ ber's office; to the Commission of the European Communities (17 January 1985) to grade A 6: (85/C 151/13) one of the 56 officials promoted was from a Mem­ ber's office. Subject: Assessment of the Commission's adminis­ trative practices prior to the end of its term Five temporary staff were re-engaged on temporary contracts in various Commission departments (two Notices and pamphlets from the staff unions show from Mr Haferkamp's office and one each from that there has been a significant reduction if not a the offices of Mr Andriessen, Mr Giolitti and Mr loss of confidence within the Commission's adminis­ Tugendhat). One went to a post left vacant; the rest tration at the end of its term of office. This crisis took posts resulting from departmental reorganiza­ has been caused mainly by the systematic practice tion. of 'parachutage' using procedures that are both hasty and artificial for numerous people who have worked in the private offices of the 14 Members of the Commission.

In view of the situation that has been created, the Commission is asked to give details for the private offices of each outgoing Member of all appointments or promotions made during the second half of 1984 indicating in particular if these are posts that have become available as a result of departmental re­ WRITTEN QUESTION No 1623/84 organization or if they are newly created posts? by Mrs Anne-Marie Lizin (S — B) to the Commission of the European Communities (17 January 1985) (85/C 151/14) Answer given by Mr Christophersen on behalf of the Commission (17 April 1985) Subject: Analysis of the protein content of cereals

The protein content of cereals, and wheat in particu­ In the second half of 1984 the Commission filled 21 lar, is currently one of the main problems of the A 3 posts. 19 of these were filled by promotion of agri-foodstuffs industry. A 4 officials—five to posts which became vacant on the departure of the previous holder and 14 to posts available as a result of internal reorganization. Of Can the Commission say whether the method of these 19 A 3 posts, seven were filled by officials from analyzing protein by near infra-red radiation will Members' offices (two from Mr Thorn's office and soon be made official in the Community as it was one each from the offices of Mr Haferkamp, Mr by other countries, including the United States, some Natali, Mr Davignon, Mr Narjes and Mr Pisani). years ago and, if so, within what timescale? No C 151/10 Official Journal of the European Communities 20. 6. 85

Answer given by Mr Andriessen to farmers, research work and new technical sol­ on behalf of the Commission utions for recycling straw—of special importance for (25 March 1985) predominantly arable areas where large quantities of straw are produced—or obligatory regulations which ban straw burning. Bans on straw burning are already in force in some Member States. Prohibiting The method of analyzing protein by near infra-red straw burning would contribute to the achievement radiation has many advantages over the traditional of the aims laid down in the 'Action Programme of method (Kjeldahl): it is very fast and simple in the European Communities on the Environment' (2). execution, and provides a better sample. (*) OJ No C 31, 6. 1. 1984. (2) OJ No C 46, 17. 2. 1983. The method, now being studied by a working party of the International Association for Cereal Chemis­ try (ICC), could be included in Community regu­ lations only after approval by this body.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1640/84 by Mr Patrick Lalor (RDE — IRL) to the Commission of the European Communities WRITTEN QUESTION No 1636/84 (17 January 1985) by Mr James Elles (ED — GB) (85/C 151/16) to the Commission of the European Communities (17 January 1985) Subject: Travel industry, present and future (85/C 151/15)

Amid predictions of the collapse of hundreds of tour Subject: Ban on straw and stubble burning operators within the next two years, and against a background of failed tour operators, can the Com­ mission indicate the overall position of tour oper­ Recent increases in cereals production in many Mem­ ators in the Community and state whether it intends ber States have encouraged the burning of straw to introduce proposals aimed at safeguarding the and stubble. In view of the growing interest in the travel business while providing the maximum protec­ Community to maintain a healthy environment, does tion and benefits for the consumer? not the Commission consider that a ban on straw and stubble burning should be introduced?

Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis on behalf of the Commission Answer given by Mr Andriessen on behalf of the Commission (23 April 1985) (1 April 1985) If there are 'predictions of the collapse of hundreds of tour operators within the next two years', the As the Commission has pointed out in its reply to Commission would attribute this to higher fuel 1 Written Question No 1285/83 by Mr Beasley( ), it prices due to the rise in value of the dollar, adverse does not consider that Community legislation for a trends in other key exchange rates and greater inten­ ban on straw and stubble burning is necessary. The sity of competition between organizers of holidays. Commission welcomes, however, in the interests of Such predictions are of course purely speculative. soil conservation, environmental protection, recyc­ ling of by-products, and accident prevention, each national, regional, local or individual initiative that The Commission is in discussion with government may be suitable to avoid straw and stubble burning. experts, and others, about package holidays. At least Such initiatives may comprehend information on the 25 million of these were taken by EC citizens in 1983 negative effects of straw burning, agricultural advice and 1984. At the present time a drop of 30 to 40 % 20. 6. 85 Official Journal of thi European Communities No C 151/11 is reported from some Member States in bookings Generally speaking, infrastructure schemes of Com­ for 1985. This is no doubt due partly to the factors munity interest meet a priori the EIB's eligibility mentioned above, partly to the generally difficult criteria and can be considered for possible financial economic situation and, for the rest, to the under­ support; the Bank is prepared to study specific pro­ standable reluctance of the man in the street to run jects submitted to it. the risks presently involved in a holiday of this kind.

In order to help stabilize the package holiday indus­ try the Commission will be holding further consul­ tation meetings in April, and will then prepare a proposal for a directive on package holidays.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1653/84 by Mr Gene Fitzgerald (RDE — IRL) to the Commission of the European Communities WRITTEN QUESTION No 1641/84 (18 January 1985) by Mrs Rika De Backer-Van Ocken (PPE — B) (85/C 151/18) to the Commission of the European Communities (17 January 1985) . (85/C 151/17) Subject: Employment zones

Subject: Inter-city rail link between Antwerp and According to its reply to Written Question No 545/ Cologne via Hasselt/Maastricht 84 (*), the Commission has authorized three employ­ ment zones to be set up in Belgium. Will the Com­ The proposed Belgium-Cologne link is important mission provide all relevant information on the both for Antwerp (linking the port to the German establishment of these employment zones and will it hinterland) and for Limburg (for employment and further state what conditions would have to be satis­ regional development). fied in order to establish employment zones in Ire­ land and particularly in Cork, which has been devas­ The European Investment Bank is reported to be tated by the closure of major industries in the area? willing to help finance such a project. (!) OJ No C 289, 29. 10. 1984, p. 7. 1. Will the Commission state whether these reports are correct?

2. Will the Commission state what proportion of Answer given by Mr Sutherland the costs is to be borne by the Belgian and on behalf of the Commission German railways respectively? (10 April 1985) 3. Will the Commission give a progress report on this question? With regard to the aims and conditions of the setting- up of employment zones in Belgium, which, on a proposal from the Belgian Government, the Com­ Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis mission authorized on 21 December 1982, the Com­ on behalf of the Commission mission refers the Honourable Member to its answer (24 April 1985) to Written Question No 1628/82 by Mr Ver- nimmen(1).

The Commission and the European Investment Bank are aware that several projects concerning the As that answer points out, the Commission's accept­ improvement of the rail links between Belgium, the ance of employment zones in Belgium aims at the Netherlands and the Federal Republic of Germany creation of new jobs in high-technology sectors by are being studied and that the inter-city link between small or medium-sized firms using innovatory pro­ Antwerp and Cologne via Hasselt/Maastricht is one cesses or manufacturing innovatory products. These of these. However, the studies do not at present seem firms are required to establish themselves within a to have reached the stage where a loan can be applied number of zones limited in number and area. The for. Commission has checked that they are established No C 151/12 Official Journal of the European Communities 20. 6. 85 in regions which, in relation to Belgium as a whole, Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis have the most serious regional problems, that they on behalf of the Commission are not located in zones where they are likely to (2 April 1985) cause unjustified distortions of competition and that the location chosen is in line with the requirements set out in the Commission Decision of 22 July 1982 The Honourable Members is referred to the Com­ on Belgian regional aids(2). mission's answer to his Written Question No 1492/ 84 (!). Pursuant to Articles 92 and 93 of the EEC Treaty, it is the Commission's responsibility to make decisions on aid measures proposed by the Member The actions that are taken in such circumstances States. By the same token, it is incumbent upon the are a matter for the appropriate local and national Governments of the Member States to inform the authorities concerned. They are bodies which are Commission about such zones of employment if they fully aware of the available legislation (Community, propose to set them up. national and local).

So far, the Irish Government has not put before the Within the context of Community legislation, the Commission any project of this type for the Cork appropriate national or local authorities may wish 2 region. to invoke either the air quality standard for lead ( ) or the air quality standard for sulphur dioxide and black smoke for the better protection of the popu­ However, the Commission recently agreed, at the lation^). request of the Irish Government, to an increase in the rate of aid which that Government may grant in (*) See page 5 of this Official Journal. this region. (2) OJ No L 378, 31. 12. 1982. (3) OJ No L 225, 30. 8. 1980. (!) OJ No C 129, 16. 5. 1983. (2) OJ No L 312, 9. 11. 1982.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1662/84 by Mrs Marijke Van Hemeldonck (S — B) WRITTEN QUESTION No 1655/84 to the Commission of the European Communities by Mr Niall Andrews (RDE — IRL) (18 January 1985) to the Commission of the European Communities (85/C 151/20) (18 January 1985) (85/C 151/19) Subject: Staff policy at the Hitachi works in Wales Subject: Pollution in the Ranelagh district of Dublin Is the Commission aware of the new measures taken There is considerable disquiet in the Ranelagh dis­ by the management of the Japanese Hitachi works trict of Dublin as a result of continuous emissions in Wales, the aim of which is to ensure that of lead and the burning of polyurethane casing at a employees over the age of 35 leave the firm on the grounds that they are more frequently ill, slower in smelter yard situated in the heart of this residential their work, have trouble with their eyes and are less area. willing to accept a change of working conditions? Local residents whose homes adjoin the yard are Does the Commission believe that the introduction deeply concerned about the health risk to their chil­ a anese star dren as a result of this enterprise. of a 'J P ' f policy of this nature can be reconciled with the social conditions achieved by European employees and the EEC's social policy? Will the Commission now state, as a matter of urgency, what action can be taken in line with pro­ posed or existing legislation in order to protect the What steps will the Commission take to call a halt residents of Ranelagh from such harmful emissions? to this development? 20. 6. 85 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 151/13

Answer given by Mr Sutherland WRITTEN QUESTION No 1671/84 on behalf of the Commission by Mr Karel De Gucht (L — B), Mr Jorgen Nielsen (17 April 1985) (L — DK) and Mrs Jessica Larive-Groencndaal (L —NL) to the Commission of the European Communities (10 January 1985) 1. According to information available to the Commission, the situation referred to by the (85/C 151/21) Honourable Member arose in December 1984 fol­ lowing the dispatch of a letter inviting workers over the age of 35 to leave the firm in question because Subject: Outcome of the International Conference their age and physical condition made them unable on the Protection of the North Sea held in to adapt to the technological changes required. Bremen on 31 October and 1 November 1984

In the meantime, the Hitachi company has explained Noting with satisfaction the holding of the first that there would be no compulsory redundancies meeting of the International Conference on the Pro­ ancj that retraining would be offered to workers who tection of the North Sea, regretting, however, that wished to keep their jobs. As a result, the trade the final declaration is in no way binding and is unions concerned believe that the problem has been restricted to a purely formal list of intentions: dealt with satisfactorily. 1. Can the Commission say what negotiating man­ date it received for the purpose of this confer­ ence? 2. At a more general level, the Commission would like to draw attention ro the conclusions of the Standing Committee on Employment of 10 May 1984 2. In particular, what proposals are referred to and of the Council of 7 June 1984, which recognized when mention is made in the declaration of the that special measures had to be taken to aid workers Commission's participation in measures to worst affected by the employment crisis and techno­ reduce pollution of telluric origin ? logical change so that they could adapt their skills to the requirements of the new technologies. 3. Can the Commission explain the significance of the term 'special zone' which may possibly confer special status upon the North Sea ? The Standing Comittee on Employment and the Council have recognized that technological change 4. Can the Commission explain why, for this pur­ has been facilitated when workers participated fully pose, the coastal States have not agreed to draw in the process and that therefore they and their up a general convention on the protection of the representatives should be informed and consulted North Sea ? with a view to concluding agreements. 5. Can the Commission indicate what action is to be taken with the International Maritime Com­ mittee in order to introduce a compulsory declar­ 3. When technological changes involve mass ation scheme for ships transporting dangerous redundancies, Directives 75/129/EEC(1), in force and radioactive substances? since February 1977, requires employers in all Mem­ ber States to give advance warning to workers' rep­ 6. Does the Commission intend to take measures, resentatives and hold consultations with them and in accordance with the declaration, to introduce also to notify the public authorities of redundancy a joint programme of inspection and surveillance plans. together with the bodies set up under the Oslo Convention, which confers observer status on the Community, and under the Paris Convention, (!) OJ No L 48, 22. 2. 1975. to which it is a -co-signatory ?

7. Can the Commission explain how the decisions taken in Bremen can be implemented, since no deadline has been fixed, no precise terms of refer­ ence given, no controls envisaged and no date fixed for the next conference. No C 151/14 Official Journal of the European Communities 20. 6. 85

Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis WRITTEN QUESTION No 1677/84 on behalf of the Commission by Mr Alexandros Alavanos (COM — GR) (24 April 1985) to the Commission of the European Communities (18 January 1985) (85/C 151/22) 1. The Commission was not given a negotiating mandate. The Council considered that there was no need for one in view of the non-binding nature of Subject: Reduction by the EEC of import restrictions the conference decisions.

The Commission of the EEC adopted a decision at 2. This mainly concerns a stepping up of the work the beginning of December regarding Greek import on monitoring and reducing pollution from sources restrictions on furniture and certain categories of on land. sanitary ware (wash basins, baths, taps and tiles). Can the Commission state: 3. 'Special zone' designates areas within which all discharges of oil or dangerous substances are practically prohibited. These special zones are listed Why it has restricted the categories of protected in Rule 10 of Annex I to the Marpol Convention 73/ industrial products in 1985 compared with 1984 78 in the case of oil, and in Point No 7 of Rule 1 of (when cigarettes were included), compared with 1983 Annex II in the case of dangerous susbstances. (11 products were included: sports shoes, furniture, tiles, tights, pullovers, men's suits, baths, wash basins, cigarettes, malted milk and beverages) and even more so compared with its first decision of 19 4. This matter was not discussed exhaustively; November 1983 (when 22 categories were included, however, it was clear that there were reservation for instance footwear, cigarettes, agricultural about the principle of a framework convention. machinery, games, textiles and clothing and alcoholic beverages, etc.)? 5. This initiative came from the Belgian authori­ ties. The matter is currently being discussed by an On which factors did it base its decision ? Does the inter-departmental group set up the Commission in Commission perhaps consider that the factors which response to Parliament's debates on 13 September ! necessitated import restrictions have disappeared in 1984 ( ). such a short period of time, and if so, why ? Does the Commission have at its disposal figures regarding the economic revival of certain categories, and if so, 6. The Commission is playing an active part in which categories? the work of a joint group of the two executive bodies whose objective is to draw up a programme of surveillance for the sea. The Commission representa­ What share of the Greek market does local pro­ tive in this group has particulary insisted on speedy duction enjoy and what is the Community's share and effective measures. as an overall figure for each of the nine Member States? 7. The decisions taken at Bremen will be implemented primarily by intensifying work under Why, even with regard to the categories for which the relevant international conventions. The Com­ it accepted quota restrictions, has the EEC substan­ mission will cooperate actively and do all in its tially raised the ceiling requested for imports (tiles: power to bring about implementation. Moreover, a 59 700 tonnes compared with 30 000 tonnes; sanitary second conference has already been scheduled for ware: 3 000 tonnes compared with 2 000 tonnes; 1986 or 1987 in the United Kingdom. batteries: 2 900 tonnes compared with 2 000 tonnes; cast-iron baths: 1 900 tonnes compared with 1 000 (!) Report of Proceedings from 11 to 13 September 1984, No tonnes; steel baths: 437 tonnes compared with 110 2-316. tonnes and furniture: 4 100 tonnes compared with 2 200 tonnes)?

Finally, according to Mr Trior Saltini, the Secretary- General of the Union of Italian Tile Producers, the Commission decision will result in an increase of Italian tile exports to Greece in 1985 by 26 % and 20. 6. 85 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 151/15 by 76 % compared with 1983. Can the Commission 2. Whether, in the light of the decision of the state whether, both as regards tiles and the other Court, the Commission paper on authorities' hold­ categories, its decisions were intended not so much ings in company capital (Bulletin 9/1984 page 93) to protect Greek sectors, which are in a state of crisis needs to be revised or amended. but rather to step up exports of industrial products (!) OJ No C 326, 7.12.1984, p.4. from the Community to Greece?

Answer given by Mr Sutherland Answer given by Lord Cockfield on behalf of the Commission on behalf of the Commission (1 April 1985) (23 April 1985)

1. The Commission is presently examining closely Under Article 130 of the Act of Accession, to which the ruling of the Court (Case 323/82) on its negative the Honourable Member is obviously referring, the decision on State aids granted to the company in Commission may authorize temporary derogations question. from the rules of the EEC Treaty at the request of the Member State concerned, so as to enable sectors experiencing serious difficulties which are liable to 2. The Honourable Member will therefore persist to adjust to the economy of the common appreciate that the Commission is still considering market. what further action to take.

The Commission would also remind the Honourable 2. In the light of the Court's ruling, there does Member that, under the same Article, it is required not seem to be any reason to amend the Com­ to give priority to measures which will least disturb mission's paper on the application of Articles 92 and the functioning of the common market. 93 of the EEC Treaty to public holdings in company capital. In the case in point, the import restrictions authori­ zed by the Commission do entail an increase in the quotas concerned; this is to enable the gradual transition to complete freedom of access for imports from other Member States, which will in any case become the rule in the sectors concerned from 1 January 1986, the date on which Article 130 of the Act of Accession ceases to apply. WRITTEN QUESTION No 1715/84 by Mr Gijs de Vries (L — NL) to the Commission of the European Communities (24 January 1985) (85/C 151/24)

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1702/84 Subject: Cooperation agreement between the Com­ by Mr Michael Welsh (ED — GB) munity and the Yemen Arab Republic to the Commission of the European Communities The cooperation agreements concluded by the Com­ (24 January 1985) munity with the Mashreq countries (Egypt, Jordan, (85/C 151/23) , Lebanon, Syria) and with the Maghreb countries (Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia) include a non-discrimi­ nation clause which reads as follows: Subject: Aid by the Belgian Government to Inter- mills SA 'In the fields covered by the Agreement: — the arrangements applied by ... in respect of the To ask the Commission: Community shall not give rise to any discrimi­ nation between the Member States, their nation­ 1. Whether, following the judgment of the Court als, or their companies or firms; of Justice in the Intermills case (Case 323/82) (x), it contemplates further proceedings in respect of the — the arrangements applied by the Community in aid granted to that company by the Belgian Govern­ respect of ... shall not give rise to any discrimi­ ment? nation between ... nationals, companies or firms.' No C 151/16 Official Journal of the European Communities 20. 6. 85

Restrictions on trade between the contracting parties pretext of rationalization and, at the same time, has for political reasons, which might result, for exam­ created new structures (task forces, etc.). This is ple, from the Arab boycott of Israel, conflict with indicative of a manifest lack of organization. In this clause. addition, numerous studies, even those dealing with long-standing policies, are entrusted to external 1. Has the Commission proposed that a non-dis­ bodies often set up specifically for the purpose. crimination, clause should be included in the cooperation agreement between the Community and Yemen ? 2. If not, why not? If so, why is there no such Can the Commission state whether and how it intends to put an end to these disruptive practices clause? which indicate weakness on the part of the Com­ 3. Is the Commission willing to propose the munity's executive and could stifle all hope of initiat­ inclusion of a non-discrimination clause in any ive, responsibility and efficiency in Commission future cooperation agreements with other States departments? from the Gulf region?

Answer given by Mr Cheysson on behalf of the Commission (16 April 1985) Answer given by Mr Christophersen on behalf of the Commission 1. No. (18 April 1985) 2. The Agreement concluded with the Yemen Arab Republic is of a different nature to the agree­ ments concluded with the countries of the Maghreb and Mashreq. With those countries the Community has concluded wide-ranging mixed agreements in the Confronted by the changing political needs and name of both the Council of the European Com­ priorities of the Community, the Commission must munities and its Member States, agreements which be able to adapt its services to tackle new tasks. This are preferential in character. The Agreement with is made more difficult by the general reluctance of the Yemen Arab Republic is a non-preferential the budgetary authority to authorize a significant framework agreement, with general provisions of an increase in the Commission's staff numbers. enabling nature. As in other agreements of this type a non-discrimination clause was not considered appropriate. The Commission must therefore meet new needs and 3. The Commission will consider future agree­ priorities as best it can from within its existing ments on an individual basis. resources. For this reason it resorts to reorganiz­ ations, redeployment of posts and staff, use of task forces, etc. In addition, when it requires expertise which is not available in the Commission (e.g. for telecommunications, biotechnology, etc.) it makes use of outside experts.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1716/84 These organizational changes—which do not avoid by Mr Jaak Vandemeulebroucke (ARC — B) the need for increases in total staff in order to take on the burden of new and increased tasks—are not to the Commission of the European Communities considered by the Commission as a sign of disarray (24 January 1985) but as a means of adapting the organization of the (85/C 151/25) Commission to changing needs, maximizing its use of human resources, and thereby increasing its efficiency. Subject: Increasing diversity and complexity in the organization of the Commission's depart­ ments For many years, the Commission has repeatedly tried to reorganize its numerous departments on the 20. 6. 85 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 151/17

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1763/84 Such collaboration would not exclude financial sup­ by Mrs Marijke Van Hemeldonck (S — D) port, within the limited resources available to the Commission in this areas at the present time. to the Commission of the European Communities (29 January 1985) (85/C 151/26)

Subject: Toxic substances WRITTEN QUESTION No 1772/84 Will the Commission give active, financial support by Mr John Marshall (ED — GB) to the poison control centres for the prevention of to the Commission of the European Communities accidents with toxic substances? (29 January 1985) What are the Commission's plans in this area? (85/C 151/27)

Subject: Overseas aid expenditure Could the Commission state for each member State for the latest year available: (a) Overseas aid expenditure as a percentage of GNP, Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis (b) Proportion of overseas aid expenditure on multi­ on behalf of the Commission lateral and bilateral aid? (19 April 1985)

The Commission has been in contact with European anti-poison centres at different times during the pilot WRITTEN QUESTION No 1774/84 project concerning home accident data. Certain stat­ istics have been furnished by one such centre and by Mr John Marshall (ED — GB) others are due to transmit similar data. to the Commission of the European Communities (29 January 1985) The Commission will evaluate these data with a (85/C 151/28) view to determining to what extent such information should be incorporated on a regular basis into the Subject: UN aid target permanent system for accident surveillance which has recently been proposed to Council. It will also Could the Commission state whether the Com­ consider what other forms of cooperation, if any, munity will reach the UN target of 0,7% GNP by should be developed with anti-poison centres in the the end of 1985 and 1,0% GNP by the end of the framework of Community policy for product safety. century? No C 151/18 Official Journal of the European Communities 20. 6. 85

Joint answer to Written Questions No 1772/84 and No 1774/84 given by Mr Natali on behalf of the Commission (28 March 1985) The table below shows the GNP percentages of development assistance given by Member States, as well as the breakdown in bilateral and multilateral aid:

Overseas aid expenditure (net disbursements) of Member States in 1983 Total ODA (!) of which

Bilateral Multilateral Percentage Million ODA ODA of GNP dollars (million dollars) (million dollars)

Belgium 0,59 480 289 191 Denmark 0,73 395 237 158 France 0,74 3 815 3 145 670 Federal Republic of Germany 0,49 3 176 2 101 1 075 Greece N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A. Ireland 0,23 37 14 24 Italy 0,24 827 443 384 Luxembourg N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A. Netherlands 0,91 1 195 812 383 United Kingdom 0,35 1605 859 746

Total 0,51 11530 7 900 3 631

(') ODA = Official Development Assistance. N.A. = Not available.

As can be seen from the table above, three Member States have already attained and surpassed the 0,7% United Nations target. France is committed to reach it by 1988 without taking account of assistance to Overseas Departments and Territories. As to the progress of other Member States toward the 0,7 % target, its rhythm will depend entirely on future aid allocations by national budgetary authorities. The figure of 1 % of GNP cannot be regarded as an agreed international aid target, most developed countries having "rejected it.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1773/84 Answer given by Mr Natali by Mr John Marshall (ED — GB) on behalf of the Commission to the Commission of the European Communities (28 March 1985) (29 January 1985) (85/C 151/29) As the Honourable Member points out in his ques­ tion, European private companies are involved in African cash crop agriculture. This involvement can Subject: Cash crop holdings take many forms: control over production, market­ Could the Commission give a breakdown by Mem­ ing, processing and/or exports, the case of direct ber State for the latest year available of the number ownership of holdings, mentioned in the Honourable and size of private companies owning or part owning Member's question, being, however, relatively rare. cash crop holdings in the 24 famine affected countries of Africa? There is a clear tendency for this involvement (in its 20. 6. 85 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 151/19 many forms) to diminish in importance as local Commission will continue to follow the development statal-parastatal or private companies take over. of imports from all third countries, particularly Yugoslavia, very closely. It is difficult to give an adequate survey of this very complex, quickly changing field. The information requested by the Honourable Mem­ ber is not available to the Commission though it is not excluded some Member States may have data on their private firms' involvement in this area.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1811/84 by Mr Jean-Claude Pasty (RDE — F) to the Commission of the European Communities WRITTEN QUESTION No 1783/84 (4 February 1985) by Mr James Provan (ED — GB) (85/C 151/31) to the Commission of the European Communities (29 January 1985) (85/C 151/30) Subject: Production of ethanol from cereals or sugar beet Subject: Raspberry imports From recent correspondence, it appears that the Given that the Community is to switch shortly to the Commission admits that the Polish price for rasp­ production of lead-free petrol, does the Commission berry pulp is still below the intra-Community price. intend in the immediate future to submit proposals It is relatively easy to show that raspberry prices on the possibility of substituting ethanol of agricul­ have not risen at all since the recent conclusion of tural origin for lead, as is already done in the United the agreement with Poland, and that in Scotland the States? price is £ 385 per tonne, whilst the cost of pro­ duction, according to the East of Scotland College This form of substitution would in addition boost costings is £ 470 per tonne, without grower profit. supplies of animal feedstuffs (because the residues Will the Commission therefore take steps to make from the distillation of cereals and sugar beet could certain that the market for 1985 is not undermined be used as feedstuffs) and reduce the Community's by products from Eastern European countries, excessive dependence on outside sources in this especially Yugoslavia, which appears to have sector. recently become the main Eastern bloc exporter, so that attention should not be solely directed on Has the Commission measured the saving in foreign Poland whose main export is strawberies? currency which could be generated for the Member States and the savings which would also accrue in Answer given by Mr Andriessen expenditure under the EAGGF Guarantee Section, on behalf of the Commission especially in respect of support for the markets in cereals? (29 March 1985)

The Commission did indeed conclude an arrange­ ment with the Polish authorities in 1984 concerning the conditions for exports of semi-processed soft Answer given by Mr Andriessen fruits to the Community, of which Poland is the on behalf of the Commission main supplier. Poland still supplies more than 50 % (23 April 1985) of the Community's imports of soft fruits. The portion of Community imports of raspberry- based products accounted for by Yugoslavia has The Commission has already taken steps to try to increased since 1984. However, the prices of products limit the dangers associated with the presence of lead from Yugoslavia are considerably higher than the in petrol. prices of Polish produce and show an incease com­ pared with 1983 in several importing Member States. A proposal has been sent to the Council for a It is planned to conclude a new arrangement with reduction in the lead content of petrol and, possibly, Poland for the 1985 marketing year. Moreover, the the introduction of lead-free petrol^). No C 151/20 Official Journal of the European Communities 20. 6. 85

The Commission has asked for Member States to WRITTEN QUESTION No 1836/84 authorize petrol blends containing organic oxygen­ by Mr Michael Hindley (S — GB), Mr Edward ates such as ethanol and methanol(2). Newman (S — GB), Mr David Martin (S — GB), Mr Leslie Huckfield (S — GB), and Lastly, it has sent a proposal to the Council for a Mr Hugh McMahon (S — GB) Regulation to channel alcohol surpluses produced to the Commission of the European Communities under the Community's wine distillation arrange­ (4 February 1985) ments towards the fuel sector(3). (85/C 151/32)

There are also other agricultural products that could Subject: Use of the European Regional Development be used to produce fuel-alcohol. The Commission is Fund studying possible ways of converting beet and grain surpluses into fuel-alcohol. The potential gains, as In the Department of the Environment and Trans­ the Honourable Member points out, would be sig­ port Document of the UK Government circulated in nificant: November 1984 entitled 'European Regional Devel­ opment Fund: Non-Quota Guidelines' it is stated — the drain on reserves of strong currencies would under paragraph 6, Additionality: be stemmed because the alcohol would replace petrol and bring down the oil bill; 'In view of the need to plan public expenditure as a whole and to control capital spending and public — animal feed supplies would be increased, sector borrowing, assistance from the Fund is passed especially if cereals were used; on to authorities on the understanding that it will be used to produce savings to local ratepayers and to improve the cost effectiveness of services, as — intervention expenditure would drop, especially appropriate.' expenditure on storage and support as the quan­ tities of cereals eligible for export refunds were reduced. Is it the Commission's intention that the ERDF be used in this manner?

However, such a policy requires: Does the Commission accept that such stipulations from the UK Government act as a deterrent to local authorities from applying for ERDF funds? — continuity of action, i.e. a programme; Is the Commission aware of any other countries •— heavy investment; which apply these same stipulations?

— possibly, incentives proportional to the scale of programme to be launched. Answer given by Mr Varfis on behalf of the Commission The Commission is not yet in a position to quantify (17 April 1985) the total potential savings for the Community.

It is the Commission's intention that grant aid from (*) Proposal for a Council Directive on the approximation of the European Regional Development Fund be used the laws of the Member States concerning the lead and in the most effective way possible. benzene content of petrol (OJ No C 178, 6. 7. 1984, p. 5). 2 ( ) Proposal for a Council Directive on crude oil saving To this end, in relation to the recently launched through the use of substitute fuel components in petrol schemes being funded through specific Community (OJNoC229, 2. 9. 1982, p. 4). (3) Proposal for a Council Regulation laying down general regional development measures, the Commission rules for the disposal of alcohol obtained from the distil­ sought and obtained from the UK authorities an lation operations referred to in Articles 39, 40 and 41 of assurance that expenditure financed by ERDF is Regulation (EEC) No 337/79 and held by intervention automatically excluded from the public expenditure agencies (COM(84) 227 final of 12 June 1984). penalty provisions applying to local authorities.

The text mentioned by the Honourable Member could be open to misinterpretation by local authori­ ties and the Commission will contact the UK authori- 20. 6. 85 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 151/21 ties with a view to its meaning being clarified for WRITTEN QUESTION No 1851/84 these local authorities. by Mrs Marie Jepsen (ED — DK) The Commission is not aware of such stipulations to the Commission of the European Communities by other Member States. (4 February 1985) (85/C 151/34)

Subject: The Commission's right to change the price of rape

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1843/84 By Mr Edward Newman (S — GB) With what formal and factual justification did the Commission see fit in the middle of the harvesting to the Commission of the European Communities period last year to make a change in the payment (4 February 1985) criteria for rape which in practice entails a delay in (85/C 151/33) payment of approximately five months and a price reduction that affect producers in one Member State in particular, i.e. Denmark, where the crop had Subject: Standing charges for domestic consumers not yet been harvested, and what confidence can of gas, electricity and fuel producers in future have in the Commission's admin­ istration of the Council's future decisions in this In which Member States of the European Com­ area? munity are standing charges levied for domestic con­ sumers of gas and/or electricity?

Are there any proposals to harmonize, throughout the Community, standing charges for domestic fuel to the level of the Community Member State which levies the lowest standing charges, or to abolish them Answer given by Mr Andriessen altogether throughout the Community if in fact there on behalf of the Commission is already a Member State wich does not levy such (19 April 1985) standing charges?

With effect from 15 September 1984 the Commission increased to 120 to 140 days the time limit for Answer given by Mr Mosar payments in respect of oilseeds delivered to the inter­ on behalf of the Commission vention agencies. (17 April 1985)

As it has already stated in its answer to Written Two-part tariffs (i.e. those having a fixed or standing Question No 999/84 from Mr Pranchere(1), the Com­ charge as well as a variable charge per kWh or per mission wishes to stress that the measure in question m3 consumed) are offered to domestic electricity and was introduced for market administration purposes. gas consumers in all Member States. The Council, in its recommendations on electricity and gas tariffs^), specifically recommends the use of such tariff struc­ Until 15 September 1984 the Community rules speci­ tures, since they enable the total cost of supplying fied no time limit for payments in respect of oilseeds consumers to be adequately reflected in prices. The bought in, whereas other agricultural products eli­ amount of the standing charge is dependent on the gible for intervention were subject to time limits individual circumstances existing in the different ranging from 120 to 140 days. The Commission felt Member States. this was unjustified and could also lead to practices differing from one intervention agency to another. There are no proposals to harmonize further or It therefore decided to align the rules applicable to abolish standing charges for electricity and gas oilseeds on those applicable to other agricultural tariffs. products. The Commission felt its decision was war­ (*) Council recommendation of 27 October 1981 on electricity ranted all the more as the oilseed harvest, especially tariff structures in the Community (81/924/EEC), OJ No that of oilseed rape, was much bigger than in the L 337, 24. 11. 1981 and Council recommendation of 21 past. April 1983 on the methods of forming natural gas prices J and tariffs in the Community (83/230/EEC), OJ No ( ) OJ No C 62, 11. 3. 1985. L 123, 11. 5. 1983. No C 151/22 Official Journal of the European Communities 20. 6. 85

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1876/84 currently operate (a) permamently and (b) tempor­ by Mr Winston Griffiths (S — GB) arily in waters outside those of the enlarged EEC? to the Commission of the European Communities (4 February 1985) (85/C 151/35)

Subject: USA export control policy of hi-tech prod­ Answer given by Mr Andriessen ucts on behalf of the Commission What is the Commission's attitude to restrictions (18 April 1985) placed on the transfer of hi-tech equipment, within and outside the EEC which has been purchased or leased by EEC companies? The numbers and types of Spanish vessels operating in the various statistical areas covered by inter­ national fisheries conventions in 1983 may be esti­ mated as follows, on the basis of the figures currently Answer given by Mr De Clercq available and without any distinction being made on behalf of the Commission between temporary and permanent presence in the waters concerned: (23 April 1985)

The Commission is concerned by the impact which Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization (NAFO), restrictions placed by the US Administration on the American and international waters: transfer of technology could have on industry within the Community. It considers that export control total number of freezer vessels (200 to 500 grt) and measures on Community territory have to be taken cod-fishing vessels: 146 on the basis of the relevant Community or national legislation and not by the application of US laws within the Community. It has made its position quite Nort-East Atlantic Fisheries Commission (NEAFC), clear to the US Administration on several occasions, outside the (enlarged) Community zone: particularly in the context of the so-called gas pipe­ line sanctions and of the renewal of the Export 50 cod-fishing vessels and trawlers Administration Act. The Commission objects in par­ ticular, to the extraterritorial application of US restrictions, to their retroactive application and to Fishery Committee for the East Central Atlantic the imposition of import restrictions in the US (CECAF), West African waters: against Community firms held to be in breach of US national security controls. 1 040 fishing vessels of various types (including some 900 vessels fishing off Morocco)

International Commission for Southeast Atlantic Fisheries (ICSEAF): 180 freezer vessels (300 grt or over)

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1900/84 Indian Ocean: by Mrs Winifred Ewing (RDE — GB) 10 to 20 tuna boats to the Commission of the European Communities (11 February 1985) (85/C 151/36) South-West Atlantic: no data available. Subject: Spanish fishing activity in waters outside those of the enlarged Community

Will the Commission publish up-to-date statistics on the number and size of Spanish vessels which 20. 6. 85 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 151/23

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1912/84 distribution of responsibility between the Member by Mr James Elles (ED — GB) States and the Commission as regards products held in public storage. to the Commission of the European Communities (11 February 1985) (!) OJ No L 216, 5. 8. 1978. (2) OJ No L 327, 14. 11. 1981. (85/C 151/37)

Subject: Stocks of agricultural products

Will the Commission please state what the position is regarding the ownership of stocks of agricultural products held both in private storage and public intervention?

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1913/84 Is there any legal decision which clearly sets out the division of responsibilities between Member States by Mrs Christine Crawley (S — GB) and the Community in this area ? to the Foreign Ministers of the 10 Member States of the European Community meeting in political cooperation (11 February 1985) (85/C 151/38) Answer given by Mr Andriessen on behalf of the Commission Subject: Yosif Begun (10 April 1985) Would the Foreign Ministers use their good offices to contact Konstantin Chernenko, Secretary-General As regards private storage, owners of agricultural of the Central Committee of the CPSU, to help products place their products under the private stor­ alleviate the suffering of Yosif Begun, who is serving age scheme on the basis of a contract. The products a prison sentence in the Perm Labour Camp Complex remain the property of the owners in question, who in the Soviet Union, and who has been denied visits continue to bear the commercial risks relating to for over two years? them. For the duration of the contract the products are immobilized, in consideration of which the owners receive aid on a flat-rate basis covering the cost of storage and interest charges. Answer 1 As for public storage, it should first be stressed that (10 May 1985) it is the national intervention boards which purchase the products in accordance with Community rules, obtain the funds necessary for this purpose and bear The human rights situation in the USSR is being the risks of bad stock management. It follows that examined constantly within the framework of Euro­ the question of ownership is governed by national pean political cooperation. Several representations law and that the Community does not own the have been made in this respect to the Soviet authori­ intervention stocks. ties. On these occasions, the Ten, in expressing their concern, have invited the Soviet authorities to adopt an attitude more in keeping with the rules on the protection of human rights as sanctioned by inter­ However, the scope of the ownership system is lim­ national law and to act in accordance with the ited by the constraints imposed by Community rules. undertakings given in the Helsinki Final Act and in More precisely, the rules governing the common the Final Document of the Madrid meeting. organizations of the markets concerned contain pro­ visions relating to the purchase, storage and sale of the products which must be compiled with the However, it seems that action concerning specific Member States. Furthermore, Council Regulations cases has a greater chance of success where it takes (EEC) No 1883/78 (!) and (EEC) No 3247/81 (2) on the form of confidential representations, avoiding the financing of intervention measures by the Com­ any form of publicity which might produce the munity contain a series of provisions defining the opposite effect. No C 151/24 Official Journal of the European Communities 20. 6. 85

Furthermore, the Ottawa meeting on human rights, WRITTEN QUESTION No 2020/84 which is scheduled to take place in May 1985, will by Mr Jaak Vandemeulebroucke (ARC — B) provide the Ten with another particularly appropri­ ate forum in which to undertake further action con­ to the Commission of the European Communities cerning the problem of human rights in order to (25 February 1985) make real progress in a situation which, in general (85/C 151/40) terms, has appeared unsatisfactory for too long.

Subject: Methods of calculating the profitability of coal mines in the Community

For several years, the Mines Administration in Belgium has been calculating the net daily profita­ bility in the Belgian coal industry on the basis of:

— non-enhanced net output (without multiplying the quantities of low-grade products by a coef­ ficient of less than one in order to convert WRITTEN QUESTION No 1932/84 them into equivalent quantities of coal having by Mr Francois Roelants du Vivier (ARC — B) combustible value), to the Commission of the European Communities — a workforce which includes managerial and (11 February 1985) supervisory staff, (85/C 151/39) — shifts that are uniformly converted into eight- hour shifts. Subject: Rabuons Dam — Mercantour National Park (France) This is the first method.

Is the Commission aware of the scheme for the In 1960, another method of calculating profitability Rabuons Dam, to be built in the Tinee Valley, and was proposed: following the example of other of the plan to build a high-voltage power line countries, managerial and supervisory staff were between Nice and Grenoble, which would cross a excluded from the workforce for the purposes of large section of the Mercantour National Park? calculating profitability; the other elements of the first method were not affected. This is a second Given the great importance of this region as regards possible method. the preservation of fauna and flora, and in particular those species listed in Annex 1 of Directive 79/409/ 1 However, as from 1 January 1976, the length of the EEC( ), is the Commission aware of its designation working day for surface workers was reduced by 15 by France as a special protection area and of the minutes. For all these workers, the working day now actual application of Article 4 of the Directive in this lasts eight hours in southern Belgium and eight hours particular case? 15 minutes in northern Belgium. Calculating profita­ (!) OJ No L 103, 25. 4. 1979, p. 1. bility on the basis of the actual shift worked (of eight hours or of eight hours 15 minutes) without converting the shifts of eight hours 15 minutes into a higher number of eight-hour shifts is a third method. Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis on behalf of the Commission To facilitate comparisons between profitability in the various Community countries, the High Auth­ (17 April 1985) ority first adopted the second method and sub­ sequently, following the introduction of shifts of eight hours 15 minutes, the third method of calcu­ The Commission has not been informed of the lation. schemes mentioned by the Honourable member. The Mercantour National Park was not included on the long list of sites which the French authorities pro­ The Belgian Mines Administration have continued posed as special protection areas under Article 4 of to calculate profitability in accordance with the first Council Directive 79/409/EEC on the conservation method, which is regarded as official in Belgium. of wild birds. This method has the advantage of being based on factors that do not vary, since the shifts actually worked are converted into eight-hour shifts and the entire underground workforce is taken into account. 20. 6. 85 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 151/25

In the case of the method used by the Community, Allowance will therefore be made not only for full comparability of profitability in the various regional differences in geology but also for differ­ Community countries is not attained because of ences in coal quality at national level. further differences due to other reasons: some countries 'enhance' their output of low-grade prod­ ucts, others take account of the quantities of coal — The number of hours worked is defined as the slack produced only where it is sold; the actual total number of shifts worked multiplied by the length of shifts varies from country, even from one average length of working time in a shift. region to another as, for example, in Belgium. — The number of works worked relates to all underground activities which are directly or Can the Commission give a suitable explanation for indirectly connected with production, i.e. defini­ this practice of using various methods for calculating tive productive hours and hours directed to main­ profitability, and what is its view of the matter? taining existing production capacity. Develop­ ment work (roadway drivage which does more than maintain existing coal-winning capacity is not included. Can it at the same time also indicate how profita­ bility is calculated in the other Member States? — Average effective length of shift covers the entire time spent underground from the moment the men leave the surface up to the time they com­ mence their return to it. Working time per shift therefore includes meal and other breaks, time taken to reach the working face, and the time taken to go down in the cage. Answer given by Mr Mosar on behalf of the Commission (22 April 1985) The Commission would also inform the Honourable Member that there are other, national methods of working out underground output apart from the one The method of calculating output per man-hour described above; since they are not comparable with underground introduced by the Statistical Office of each other they are not used in material published by the European Communities in 1977 is based on a the Statistical Office of the European Communitues. Community scheme applicable for coal-producing Member States and thus ensures that the published figures are as far as possible internationally compar­ able. Pre-1977 statistical series were based on output per man-shift underground, but the figures were not exactly comparable because the number of hours per shift is not the same in all the Member States concerned.

The new method used from 1977 onwards does away with this objection and can be described as follows: WRITTEN QUESTION No 2021/84 by Mr Jaak Vandemeulebroucke (ARC — B) — output per man-hour is given by dividing net to the Commission of the European Communities production by the number of hours worked; (25 February 1985) (85/C 151/41) — 'net production' means gross production—sort­ ing and washery tailings/waste. Fines, middlings and slurries are included in production. Subject: EIB loans to Belgian firms active in the nuclear sector Net production used in calculating output is expressed in tonnes ('tonne = tonne') on a monthly basis per coal field, and on a quarterly basis at Can the Commission state what loans have been national level in joules (i.e. units of energy) based granted to Belgian firms active in the nuclear sector on the lower over the gross calorific value. Annual and what conditions were laid down with regard to data will be compiled using both units. repayment arrangements, rate of interest, etc.? No C 151/26 Official Journal of the European Communities 20. 6. 85

Answer given by Mr Delors on behalf of the Commission (18 April 1985)

The European Investment Bank has granted loans for the nuclear power stations at Doel and Tihange in Belgium on the following terms:

Power station at Doel

Amount Rate Duration Year (million Bfrs) (%) (years)

1978 2 500 9,20 • 8 1980 2 500 10,35 15 1981 2 500 12,20 12 1981 750 15,20 10 1982 500 15,15 12 1982 1000 14,15 12 1984 900 12,85 15 1984 600 11,45 15 1985 750 11,30 15

Power station at Tihange

Amount Rate Duration Year (million Bfrs) (%) (years)

1970 800 8,75 20 1972 700 7,75 20 1974 730 8,75 20 1979 2 000 10,00 8 1980 2 500 10,35 15 1981 2 500 12,20 12 1981 1250 15,20 10 1982 500 15,15 12 1982 500 12,90 7 1985 1000 11,30 15

The interest rates applied by the EIB are determined by the cost of its borrowings on the capital markets on which it raises funds, by the currencies in which the loans are disbursed and by their duration.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2023/84 Commission state whether it is informed of this and by Mr Jaak Vandemeulebroucke (ARC — B) whether it is considering carrying out an investi­ gation in the light of the aid granted to the Philip­ to the Commission of the European Communities pines? (25 February 1985) (85/C 151/42) Answer given by Mr Cheysson Subject: World Bank report on the Philippines on behalf of the Commission A leak recently led to the disclosure of the contents (17 April 1985) of a confidential report by the World Bank in which it is stated that 3 100 million dollars lent to the Philippines between 1978 and 1982 had disappeared The Commission has not so far seen the confidential from that country's national budget. A strong sus­ report by the World Bank referred to by the Honour­ picion was expressed that foreign credits intended able Member. to benefit the Philippine economy have in actual fact disappeared into the hands of private individuals Regarding Community aid to the Philippines, the who have speculated with them abroad. Can the Commission considers that the general rules govern- 20. 6. 85 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 151/27 ing the administration of such aid, notably the pro­ 2. In view of the serious distortions of competition visions on the supervision and monitoring of oper­ existing on the market in sheepmeat between ations undertaken in the country in question, are France and Ireland on the one hand and the adequate to prevent such funds being diverted for United Kingdom on the other, imports from third illicit purposes. countries and the inadequacy of Community Regulations, it is vital to rectify the situation and harmonize the sheepmeat sector by revising the In accordance with these principles, the funds made Regulation governing the common organization available to the Philippines are controlled and of markets. Is such a review planned and, if so, administered either by the Community financial when? authorities direct or, in a case of cofinancing, for example, by a bank organization (!) in accordance with a project administration mandate drawn up according to the needs of each case between the Community and the bank concerned. Answer given by Mr Andriessen on behalf of the Commission In these circumstances the Community would have (17 April 1985) no grounds for carrying out an investigation of the kind postulated in the question. i1) ADB — Asian Development Bank. 1. The Commission is currently engaged in a detailed consideration of the memorandum; it will certainly inform the Honourable Member of the results in due course.

2. The Commission's staff is at present working out a system to harmonize the way market prices in the Community are recorded and this should contribute to the desired restabilization. Apart from the proposals contained in the 1985/86 price package WRITTEN QUESTION No 2040/84 and related measures, no further action is planned for the moment. by Mr Louis Eyraud (S — F) to the Commission of the European Communities (25 February 1985) (85/C 151/43) •

Subject: Problems facing sheepmeat producers

1. In view of the serious problems facing sheepmeat producers (20% fall in income in certain areas), the'French Government has sent a memorandum to the Commission setting out various proposals, WRITTEN QUESTION No 2060/84 including four which it regards as indispensable: by Mr Francois Roelants du Vivier (ARC — B) — that reference should no longer be made to to the Commission of the European Communities green rates but that the adjusted central rates (25 February 1985) be used, (85/C 151/44) — reduction of imports from third countries, Subject: Compulsory vaccination — negotiations in GATT on the unbinding of import duties on fresh or refrigerated meat, Can the Commission state what is currently the — elimination of the distortions of competition comparative situation with regard to compulsory arising in particular from the fact that UK vaccination in the Member States of the European producers are granted a slaughter premium. Community? What stage has the Commission reached in its consideration of this memorandum and has it In particular, which Member States have made vacci­ already come to any conclusions? nation against polio a statutory requirement? No C 151/28 Official Journal of the European Communities 20. 6. 85

Answer given by Mr Sutherland in a chemical plant where prisoners' health is at on behalf of the Commission risk—normal industrial safeguards are totally lack­ (17 April 1985) ing. These threats are used to try to make him renounce his religious faith.

In its communication to the Council (x) on cooper­ ation at Community level on health-related prob­ lems, the Commission expanded on the following Answer three topics: (10 May 1985)

— diseases due to smoking, The human rights situation in the USSR is kept under constant review in the framework of European — addiction to illicit drugs, political cooperation. The Soviet authorities have — infectious disease control. been approached several times in this connection. On each occasion, the Ten have expressed their concern and urged the Soviet authorities to adopt The Honourable Member is invited to consult (a) an attitude more consonant with the rules on the the table annexed to the abovementioned communi­ protection of human rights as sanctioned by inter­ cation, which answers his questions and (b) the national law and to honour the commitments entered answers given by the Commission to Written Ques­ into in the Helsinki Final Act and in the Concluding tions No 1590/79 by Mr Glinne(2), No 303/80 by Document of the meeting in Madrid. Mrs Schleicher (3), No 1034/82 by Mr Glinne(4) and No 1167/83 by Mrs Spaak(5) on the subject. However, representations in respect of specific cases seem to have more chance of success when they are (*) COM(84) 502 final. 2 made privately, avoiding any form of publicity which ( ) OJ No C 140, 10. 6. 1980, p. 9. could have the opposite of the desired effect. (3) OJ No C 183, 21. 7. 1980, p. 66. (4) OJ No C 327, 13. 12. 1982, p. 13. The Ottawa meeting on human rights due to be held in May will provide the Ten with another particularly appropriate framework for further rep­ resentations on the problem of human rights, with the aim of achieving real progress in a situation which, in general terms, has for too long been unsat­ isfactory.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2175/84 by Mrs Christine Crawley (S — GB) to the Foreign Ministers of the 10 Member States of the European Community meeting in political cooperation (11 February 1985) (85/C 151/45) WRITTEN QUESTION No 2176/84 by Mrs Christine Crawley (S — GB) Subject: Zahar Zunshain to the Foreign Ministers of the 10 Member States of the European Community meeting in political Will the Foreign Ministers meeting in political coop­ cooperation eration convey to the Soviet Government their con­ cern at the plight of Zahar Zunshain, a Soviet Jew (8 March 1985) from Riga? Zahar Zunshain has been sent to prison (85/C 151/46) under Article 183/1 of Soviet law following his arrest for taking part in a peaceful demonstration staged in Moscow with his wife and two other Riga Jews Subject: Iran-Iraq conflict on 5 March 1984. Will the Council of Foreign Ministers meeting in Since the beginning of his sentence I am informed political cooperation call on Iran to seek a peaceful that he has lost three stone in weight and has been solution to the Iran-Iraq conflict, as a further escala­ threatened with being sent to work down a mine or tion of the war endangers international stability? 20. 6. 85 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 151/29

Will the Council of Foreign Ministers meeting in In view of the fact that these prisoners will be the political cooperation ascertain whether or not Iran­ last to be tried under this procedure, do the Foreign ian children of nine and 10 years of age are being Ministers intend to make representations to the used by the Iranian Government as human mine­ Chilean Government? sweepers, as has been alleged, in the war against Iraq, and why the Iranian Government will not accept them back when the Iraqi Government has attempted to repatriate these children after capturing them as prisoners of war? Answer (10 May 1985)

Answer The Ten have from the outset been closely following the case of the three Chilean citizens accused of the (10 May 1985) murder of General Urzua, the Prefect of Santiago, and brought before a court martial under a special measure providing for this procedure in certain spec­ The Ten have always paid great attention, within ific instances of crimes against senior officials of the the framework of political cooperation, to the prob­ state. lem of the Iran-Iraq conflict, in view of its potential for destabilizing a region of considerable political At the beginning of March the Ten made represen­ and economic importance and its' serious reper­ tations to the Chilean authorities and asked them cussions from the humanitarian point of view. to ensure the accused were given all the necessary guarantees regarding their defence and all the oppor­ The Ten have on several occasions made represen­ tunities for appeal provided for under ordinary juris­ tations to the authorities in Baghdad and Teheran diction. regarding various issues of a humanitarian nature such as the bombing of towns, the use of chemical weapons, the difficulties encountered by the Inter­ national Committee of the Red Cross in its work and the treatment of prisoners of war, to which the Honourable Member specifically refers.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2332/84 by Mr Jens-Peter Bonde (ARC — DK) to the Commission of the European Communities (18 March 1985) (85/C 151/48)

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2243/84 Subject: Foreign trade by Mrs Anne-Marie Lizin (S — B) Will the Commission give details of the 10, 20, 40 to the Foreign Ministers of the 10 Member States of and 280 largest companies' share of foreign trade, total turnover and employment for each year the European Community meeting in political between 1972 and 1984? cooperation (11 March 1985) (8S/C 151/47) WRITTEN QUESTION No 2334/84 Subject: Alarming situation of Jorge Palma Donoso, by Mr Jens-Peter Bonde (ARC — DK) Carlos Araneda Miranda and Hugo Mar- chant Moya, prisoners in Chile to the Commission of the European Communities (18 March 1985) Will the Ministers meeting in political cooperation (85/C 151/49) discuss as a matter of urgency at their next meeting the case of Jorge Palma Donoso and the two other Subject: Industrial concentration prisoners who are due to stand trial before a wartime military tribunal, a procedure under which the rights Will the Commission indicate the name and location of the defence are extremely limited, and for whom of the 500 largest companies in the Community the death penalty has been demanded? together with the number of employees? No C 151/30 Official Journal of the European Communities 20. 6. 85

Joint answer to Written Questions sales of lottery tickets in the United Kingdom, and No 2332/84 and No 2334/84 is it aware that, under the provisions of the Lotteries given by Mr Narjes and Amusements Act 1976, lotteries promoted out­ on behalf of the Commission side Great Britain cannot lawfully operate in the (8 May 1985) United Kingdom, and what action does it intend to take to stop this illegal practice? The Commission would refer the Honourable Mem­ ber to its answers to his Written Questions No 1917/ 83(1) and No 301/84(2).

(!) OJ No C 105, 16. 4. 1984. (2) OJ No C 225, 27. 8. 1984.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2338/84 Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis on behalf of the Commission by Mr Andrew Pearce (ED — GB) (8 May 1985) to the Commission of the European Communities (18 March 1985) (85/C 151/50) The Commission has no jurisdiction to deal with the Subject: Lotteries question asked by the Honourable Member, which Is the Commission aware that the organizers of the is a matter solely for the national authorities con­ South German State Lottery are trying to promote cerned.