24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/1

(Information)

EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT

WRITTEN QUESTIONS WITH ANSWER

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2382/85 Answer given by Lord Cockfield by Mr Edward McMillan-Scott (ED — GB) on behalf of the Commission to the Commission of the European Communities (13 April 1987) (16 January 1986) 1. It is up to the national associations of couriers (87/C 226/01) and tourist guides to arrange to draw up a code such as the one proposed by the Honourable Member for cross-frontier tours within the Community. The Com­ Subject: Local tourist guides and tour managers mission is prepared to examine such a project if submit­ ted to it in order to ensure it complies with Community law. 1. In view of the problems encountered by tour man­ agers (escorts, capo gruppi, guides-interpretes) in cer­ tain Member States, would the Commission be pre­ 2. The question as to whether the Commission could pared to circulate as a Recommendation a code of grant assistance under the European Social Fund for practice to the relevant authorities and interest groups training courses for couriers and tourist guides is subject in the Member States, requesting their cooperation in to the following conditions: implementing it under Articles 7 and 59 of the Treaty of Rome, and communicate the said Recommendation — the measures must comply with the rules and guide­ to the Council of Europe, noting that such a code of lines for the management of the Fund, practice should cover the rights and activities of tour managers and registered local guide/lecturers and bear­ — the Member States must make a financial contri­ ing in mind that a tour manager should be able, with bution and submit applications for assistance. a recognized qualification or with the relevant experi­ ence of the Community countries in which he works, to conduct parties of tourists on public and private transport. He may need to retain a letter of appointment or contract from the employing tour agent/operator as a bona fide but need produce it only if asked to do so by the public authorities.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2959/85 And noting also that if local registered guides are avail­ by Mr Dieter Rogalla (S — D) able, a tour manager should not undertake guided visits in or near places regarded as of major historic or to the Commission of the European Communities national importance or city sight-seeing tours. How­ (7 March 1986) ever, a tour manager should be able to conduct 'orien­ (87/C 226/02) tation' tours providing that they do not include such internal visits. Subject: A People's Europe

2. Would the Commission be willing to promote 1. Which Member States issue the European Com­ training courses for tour managers in Member States munity standard driving licence, and since when have supported by monies from the European Social Fund? they done so ? No C 226/2 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87

2. What representations has the Commission made 4. Yes, but the difficulties have to do with the regis­ with Member States not yet issuing the European Com­ tration of the vehicle and not the driving licence. The munity standard driving licence, and with what out­ holder of a driving licence issued in a Member State may come? drive in the other Member States a vehicle registered in any Member State. However, under present Com­ munity law, a person who has his normal residence in 3. Is the Commmission prepared to publicize its one Member State may not use a car registered in answers to questions 1 and 2 at a press conference? another Member State. This is mainly for tax reasons.

4. Is the Commission aware of the difficulties created 5. The Community rules provide that if the holder by insurance companies and police and customs services of a driving licence issued in one Member State esta­ in certain Member States for a driver whose driving blishes his normal residence in another Member State licence has not been issued by the authorities of the his licence remains valid for not more than a year country in which his or her vehicle is registered ? following the establishment of the new residence. Dur­ ing this period the licence holder must apply for his driving licence to be exchanged for a national licence 5. Is the Commission aware that some Belgian local of the new country of residence. The Belgian authorities auhtorities — more particularly, Foreign Residents' are therefore not justified in demanding that a licence Registration Bureaux — insist that a foreign resident be exchanged until the year has elapsed. exchange the driving licence issued by his or her Mem­ ber State of origin for a Belgian licence ?

6. The Commission will enter this item on the agen­ What is the Commission's view of the general refusal da for the next meeting of the committee of government to comply with relevant Community rules? experts on driving licences.

6. Is the Commission prepared to request Member 7. With regard to the issue of the European passport, States which did not begin to issue European Com­ the Commission would refer the Honourable Member munity standard driving licences on 1 January 1986 to to the answer given by Lord Cockfield on 10 October replace free of charge national licences subsequently 1985 to Written Question No 328/85 by Mrs Maij- issued by a Community standard licence? Weggen(2), which gives details of the position in each Member State. There has been little change since then, except that Greece has started to issue these passports. 7. Which Member States issue the 'European pass­ The Netherlands still has not. port', and since when have they done so? (') OJNoL375, 31. 12. 1980, p. 1. (2) OJ No C 334, 23. 12-. 1985, pp. 6 and 7.

Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis on behalf of the Commission (8 July 1986) Supplementary answer given by Mr Clinton Davis 1. and 2. The Member States of the Community of on behalf of the Commission Ten, with the exception of Italy and Ireland, have (10 April 1987) submitted to the Commission for an opinion a planned driving licence based on the model Community driving l licence appearing in Annex I to Council Directive 80/ Further to its answer of 8 July 1986 ( ), the Commission 1263/EEC of 4 December 1980 on the introduction of is now able to inform the Honourable Member that on a Community driving licence(1). The Commission has checking models of driving licence issued since endorsed seven of the models but has expressed reser­ 1 January 1986 for conformity with the Community vations regarding the one submitted by the United model it found that five Member States are actually Kingdom. It has asked all Member States, including issuing driving licences which conform to the Com­ Spain and Portugal, to submit specimens of the driving munity model. licences they have been issuing since 1 January 1986 to check whether they comply with the above Directive. It will inform the Honourable Member of the outcome The Commission has begun the procedure provided for of its enquiries. in Article 169 of the Treaty with regard to the other five Member States (which are presumed to have infringed the Treaty) for failure to apply Article 12 3. The answer to this Written Question will be publi­ paragraph 2 of Council Directive 80/1263/EEC of shed in the Official Journal of the European Communi­ 4 December 1980 on the introduction of a Community ties in the normal manner. driving licence (2). 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/3

It can be taken that Spain and Portugal will be called the European Schools. As emphasized by Mrs Peus and upon to comply with the provisions of the article in Mr Schon in their draft reports (PE 103.068, PE 102.454) question within a reasonable period. and as exemplified during the public hearing on the European Schools of 26 and 27 November 1986 the (') OJ No C 177, 6. 7. 1987, p. 6. structure and the organization of the European Schools (2) OJ No L 375, 31. 12. 1980, p. 1. need to be reinforced. This is a measure to which the Commission intends to give priority.

1, 2 and 3. The following tables provide the required information for the 1983/84, 1984/85 and 1985/86 school years.

JO No C 81, 9. 4. 1986.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 359/86 by Mr John Iversen (COM — DK) to the Commission of the European Communities (28 May 1986) (87/C 226/03) SCHOOLYEAR 1983/84

Number of Subject: Possible extension of European Schools to all Number of Number of Member States pupils leaving during the entered failing the Schools for the % seventh year % European without taking ! European baccalaureate In its answer to Written Question No 1016/85 ( ), the baccalaureate the European Commission sympathizes with the view expressed by a baccalaureate Member of the European Parliament, Mr Dieter Rogal- Bergen 40 5 12,5 2 0,5 la, that, in his opinion, it is justified to extend the Brussels I 215 32 14,9 1 0,4 European School prototype to the various capitals of Brussels II 96 6 6,25 2 0,2 the Member States, for example, on a gradual basis. Culham 30 0 0 Furthermore, the Commission states that it will inform Karlsruhe 41 2 5 0 the Member States of the positive educational results Luxembourg 128 13 10 2 2 achieved by the European School prototype. Mol 49 4 8 1 2 Munich 12 0 1 8 In the light of the above, can the Commission indicate Varese 127 23 18 1 1 why it has not rejected Mr Dieter Rogalla's peculiar idea of extending European Schools to all Member 738 85 11,5 10 1,3 States and will it indicate what 'positive' results have been identified and, in this connection, state how many pupils each year either:

1. fail to pass the European baccalaureate? 2. terminate their studies at the European Schools without sitting for this examination ? 3. do not move up a class ? SCHOOLYEAR 1984/85 These figures should be provided both as totals and percentages. Number of Number of pupils Number of pupils leaving during Can the Commission state in this context what is posi­ entered failing the the Schools for the % seventh year % tive about these figures ? European European without taking baccalaureate baccalaureate the European ') OJ No C 81, 9. 4. 1986, p. 1. baccalaureate

Bergen 45 4 9 0 Brussels I 238 38 16 2 0,8 Brussels II 116 8 7 3 2,5 Culham 25 3 12 0 Karlsruhe 58 3 5 0 Answer given by Mr Christophersen Luxembourg 153 13 8,5 6 3,9 on behalf of the Commission Mol 70 7 10 0 (27 March 1987) Munich 44 2 5 0 Varese 123 9 7,3 5 4

The Commission confirms its answer to Written Ques­ 872 87 10,0 16 1,8 tion No 1016/85 by Mr Rogallai1) on the extension of No C 226/4 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87

SCHOOLYEAR 1985/86 3. Is it true that from 1980 on guarantee funds have been opened in the Netherlands for the benefit of Number of Number of pupils Netherlands' importers of tapioca pellets, which are pupils Number of pupils leaving during administered by the Netherlands authorities and from Schools entered failing the the % seventh year % which importers of tapioca pellets subject to an agricul­ European European baccalaureate without taking tural levy under tariff heading 23.07 of the Common baccalaureate the European Customs Tariff receive compensation? baccalaureate

Bergen 47 6 13 1 2 Brussels I 215 27 12,5 10 5 Brussels II 122 5 4 1 0,8 Culham 45 3 6,5 0 4. If so, who established these funds and why ? What Karlsruhe 60 4 6,5 0 form do they take? By whom, in what years and for Luxembourg 159 11 7 2 1,5 what amounts were importers paid compensation out Mol 53 1 2 1 2 of these funds? Munich 40 3 7,5 1 2,5 Varese 102 13 12,7 1 1

783 73 9,3 17 2,2 5. Is it true that in the management of certain funds the 'own resources' administration is used in order to determine which importers came into consideration for compensation?

6. If so, is it a desirable trend for the administration of own resources to be made available to industry and is compensation for this obtained by the Netherlands authorities from the industry concerned, which is deducted from the compensation granted to the Nether­ lands for the collection of own resources?

WRITTEN QUESTION No 735/86 Answer given by Mr Andriessen on behalf of the Commission by Mr Pieter Dankert (S — NL) (11 March 1987) to the Commission of the European Communities (2 July 1986) 1. and 2. In accordance with the terms of the Cooper­ (87/C 226/04) ation Agreement concluded with Thailand in 1982 on manioc exports to the Community, and pursuant to the Subject: Cooperation agreement with the Kingdom of Community rules for applying that Agreement, the levy Thailand concerning the production and mar­ limited to 6% ad valorem applies only to a fixed keting of and trade in manioc amount of manioc shipped to the Community under cover of export certificates issued by the Thai authori­ ties. In February 1984 the Commission informed the 1. During the recently extended period of validity Member States, on the basis of information in its pos­ of the cooperation agreement with the Kingdom of session, that some 61 000 tonnes of manioc had been Thailand concerning production and marketing of and shipped from Thai ports to the Community without trade in manioc, have the Member States been called the above-mentioned export certificates, reminding to account for the way in which they have implemented them that the arrangements referred to above could not the certification scheme provided for in Article 5 of the be applied to these consignments. agreement, since, for example, import permits have been granted without the Commission's express approval being sought?

2. If so, which Member States have been approached The Commission sent the Dutch authorities a request about this ? What effects has the Commission connected for information concerning acceptance by them of with these actions by the Member States concerned ? release for free circulation on their territory of manioc What is the probable total amount of 'own resources' exported from Thailand without an export certificate. lost in this way and have the sums owing been claimed However, the Commission decided not to take the and paid? matter further pending the judgment of the Court of 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/5

Justice of the European Communities in Case 175/84, all workers in Member States. The question of ensuring in which the Court is called upon to give judgment on that disparities in status and pay gradually disappear the legal arguments brought against the Commission in is connected with the acknowledgement of equivalence this matter. of qualifications and skills in many trades where at the present time no such official recognition exists. 3. 4. 5. and 6. The Commission is aware that the guarantee funds referred to by the Honourable Member The Commission is aware of the fact that real free have been set up. movement of labour cannot be accomplished fully as long as differences in licences exist between Member These funds are intended to cover the higher rate of States or that licences are not mutually recognised in levy which the importer has to pay where the customs all Member States. The Commission is examining what authorities classify the goods under Common Customs steps may be taken in order to achieve this aim. tariff heading 23.07; they are a compensation mechan­ ism managed on behalf of the trade organizations them­ The Commission has already entered into consultations selves. with a view to quickly establishing a system for mutual acceptance of personnel licences for the exercise of functions in civil aviation. The longer term aim would be an approximation or harmonisation of licencing requirements.

With its decision 85/368/EEC of 16 July 1985 (!), the Council mandated the Commission to establish the comparability of vocational training qualifications for WRITTEN QUESTION No 961/86 skilled workers, in close cooperation with Member by Mrs Marie-Noelle Lienemann (S — F) States and both sides of industry. This work will be initiated in 1986 by the European Centre for the Devel­ to the Commission of the European Communities opment of Vocational Training in Berlin which will (16 July 1986) undertake the technical assistance needed in this task. (87/C 226/05) Under the terms of the Council Decision, the Com­ Subject: Status of ground mechanics employed in civil mission can propose measures in this field only for aviation occupations or groups of occupations on a proposal from the Member States or the competent employers' The status of ground mechanics working in civil avi­ or workers' organization at Community level. On this ation in France is different from that in other European basis the Commission has initiated work for skilled countries. workers in three sectors accorded priority status by national authorities (Hotel, restaurant and catering, motor mechanics and construction). In France no licence is issued to the worker. (') OJ No L 199, 31. 7. 1985, p. 56.

This creates a situation in which workers doing an identical job at the same airport have an inferior status.

A further difference from other European countries is that there are no qualifications for ground mechanics in aviation which can create risks as regards ground maintenance. WRITTEN QUESTION No 1246/86 by Mrs Ursula Schleicher (PPE — D) Does the Commission not consider that it would be to the Commission of the European Communities advisable to improve the status of these workers within the framework of the Treaty of Rome ? (2 September 1986) (87/C 226/06)

Answer given by Mr Marin Subject: Directive on beaches on behalf of the Commission

(1 December 1986) Last summer, when the Community Directive on beaches came into force, the Italian Government low­ The Commission has the highest interest in problems ered a number of reference values, otherwise further concerning equal treatment and working conditions for Northern Adriatic beaches would have had to be closed, No C 226/6 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87 with disastrous effects on tourism in this area. At the WRITTEN QUESTION No 1387/86 time, the Commission was unaware of the Italian by Mr Arturo Escuder Croft (ED — E) Government's actions. to the Commission of the European Communities (18 September 1986) 1. In the meantime, what information has the Com­ mission received from the Italian Government ? (87/C 226/07)

2. Has Italy now given due effect to the Directive on Subject: Composition of the Community fishing fleet the quality of bathing water? The accession of Spain and Portugal to the EEC has resulted in a substantial increase in the size of the Community fishing fleet which now exceeds 2 million Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis gross registered tonne. on behalf of the Commission In order to assess the real impact of accession in the (27 April 1987) fisheries sector, will the Commission state:

1. The Decree Law No 164 of 3 May 1985 amended 1. How many fishing vessels are currently registered the limit values for dissolved oxygen and colour, with in each of the Community countries and what is the proviso that bathing waters be monitored to detect their total gross registered tonne? any signs of algae harmful to health. 2. How many people are employed as permanent crew members in the fishing fleets of each of the Com­ In response to Oral Question H-296/85 from the munity countries ? Honourable Member (!) and Written Question No 647/ 85 from Mr Gautier and others (2), the Commission engaged in an exchange of letters and had talks in Rome to check on the implementation of Community directives. As the Directive lays down guide values for the two parameters in question, a Member State can choose not to observe the values indicated. Answer given by Mr Cardoso e Cunha on behalf of the Commission

In view of the fact that Italy has limited the derogation (30 April 1987) to a maximum of three years, the Commission feels that notification of the derogation — as given in 1985 The table below lists, by Member State, the number of — is sufficient in this case. fishing vessels, corresponding gross register tonnage and the number of recorded fishermen. The regions of Veneto and Emilia Romagna applied The figures are for 1984 but are still provisional, in the above derogation during the 1985 and 1986 bathing particular for the Member States marked with an seasons; however, responsibility for monitoring actual asterisk. compliance with the conditions lies entirely with the national authorities. Number Tonnage Fischermcn of vessels (CRT) Naturally, this temporary modification of the Italian legislation does not detract from Italy's obligation to 1. Belgium 212 22 663 1 284 submit a report at regular intervals on the quality of 2. Denmark 6 982 123 664 14 500 its bathing waters. 3. Fed. Rep. of Germany 1 091 81 009 3 990 4. Greece (*) 5 882 173 000 27 700 2. Following the judgment of the Court of Justice of 5. Spain 17 December 1981 censuring Italy for failing to trans­ 15 585 576 062 89 364 pose the Directive into national law, Italy adopted (excl. Canaries) 13 275 197 468 20 000 Decree No 470 of 8 June 1982. 6. France 7. Ireland (*) 1 600 38 000 8 600 8. Italy (*) 19 074 262 263 37 000 The Commission has asked the Italian Government to 9. Luxembourg explain why Decree No 470 omits one of the parameters 1063 147 781 4 410 contained in the Directive and has reminded it of its 10. Netherlands obligation to submit a report on the condition of bath­ 11. Portugal 5 424 128 449 ^ 585 ing waters. 12. United Kingdom 6 967 161 231 22 556 (') Debates of the European Parliament, Annex to Official Jour­ nal No 2-328. TOTAL EEC 12 77 155 1 911 590 262 989 (-) OJ No C 269, 21. 10. 1985, p. 25. TOTAL EEC 10 56 146 1 202077 070799 140 040

(*) Source: EUROSTAT 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/7

This information is drawn for various Community or programme (3) aimed at achieving a better balance national statistical sources used as work basis by the between research on living conditions and research on Commission. Different figures may be the result of working conditions, increasingly close cooperation with different statistical methods or criteria applied. the Community institutions and more openness to the outside world through an improved communication policy.

(') OJNoC71, 18.3. 1985, p. 23. (2) 1985 Annual report, ref. EF/86/42. (3) The European Foundation's four-year rolling programme 1985-1988, ref. EF/85/02.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1476/86 by Mr Jose Alvarez de Eulate Penaranda (ED — E) to the Commission of the European Communities (26 September 1986) (87/C 226/08)

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1678/86 Subject: Results achieved by the European Foundation by Mr Jochen van Aerssen (PPE — D) for the improvement of living and working conditions to the Commission of the European Communities (29 September 1986) (87/C 226/09) Living and working conditions have been one of the European Community's greatest concerns, as evidenced Subject: Private-sector modems by the setting up of a European Foundation more Following the failure of efforts by the German Post than ten years ago to study these important aspects of Office and the Commission of the European Communi­ Community society. ties to agree on the connection of private-sector modems to the analog telephone network run by the former, can the Commission indicate: After ten years' experience, can the Commission say what it considers to be the most important results 1. whether the Post Office continues to exercise a achieved by setting up this Foundation, what benefit it monopoly on the modem market in the Federal has produced overall and whether it considers that the Republic of Germany, Foundation's activities have been adequately public­ 2. whether the Commission will assert its rights under ized? the EEC Treaty — in view of the extension of the German Post Office's network monopoly to modems and baseband modulator-demodulator equipment,

Answer given by Mr Marin — in view of the approval procedures for modems on behalf of the Commission applied to date, (1 April 1987) — in view of the progressive conversion of the German leased-circuit data network to the inte­ grated data and telegraph network (IDN) ? With regard, in general terms, to the impact of the European Foundation's work, the Honourable Member 3. whether it is still possible to reach a reasonable is referred to the reply given by the Commission to agreement ? Written Question No 1073/84 by Mr Fitzgerald (1).

More specifically, the Commission is taking a great deal of account of the Foundation's endeavours in the drafting of the Communication on living and working Answer given by Mr Sutherland conditions which is in preparation. on behalf of the Commission (26 March 1987)

The Commission takes the view that the 1985 report The German authorities have undertaken to liberalize of activities (2) published by the Foundation properly the modem market in the Federal Republic of Germany reflects the guidelines of the 1985-1988 four-year rolling following representations by the Commission. No C 226/8 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87

As a result of this undertaking the Fernmeldeord- Answer given by Lord Cockfield nung has been amended (20 AndVFO of 16 July on behalf of the Commission 1986, Federal Law Gazette, Part I, p. 1023) to give (26 March 1987) private operators access to the market in modems connected to the analog network. On 16 March 1987 the Council adopted a Directive extending until 31 December 1988 the exemption 2. The German Post Office's monopoly in baseband granted to Denmark from the Community rules on modems, which are closely dependent on the techni­ travellers' duty-free allowances. The Council did not cal conditions of the network's operation, remain accept the proposed rescheduling of the timetable for intact. the movement towards full application of the quantitat­ ive limits for cigarettes, smoking tobacco and alcoholic drinks that set 31 December 1990 as the date for the At the same time the German authorities have expiry of the derogation arrangements (1). undertaken to ensure a neutral approval procedure, and to publish details of the official specifications and of the supporting documents required by the It is practically impossible to calculate the precise econ­ Zentralamt fur Zulassung im Fernmeldewensen, omic effects in Denmark of raising the quantitative keeping this information up to date for the next limits to the Community level according to the time­ two years. table proposed by the Commission.

Moreover, the Commission is at present considering This is not only because it is difficult to foresee how whether it is consistent with Articles 30 et seq. of consumers in Denmark will react, but also because of the EEC Treaty to require that terminals imported the unpredictable development of certain factors such from other Member States must comply with as changes in excise duties or in exchange parities national VDE standards before they can be put on between the Danish krone and the German mark. the market in the Federal Republic of Germany. (') Doc. COM(86) 703.

The introduction of a digital integrated service net­ work in the Federal Republic of Germany was decided by the Deutsche Bundespost and is not in itself incompatible with the EEC Treaty rules.

In the Commission's opinion, the undertaking by the German authorities is an acceptable adjustment of the exclusive rights in respect of the importing WRITTEN QUESTION No 1829/86 and marketing of modems enjoyed by the Deutsche Bundespost. by Mr Willy Vernimmen (S — B) to the Commission of the European Communities (7 November 1986) (87/C 226/11)

Subject: Cooking butter WRITTEN QUESTION No 1740/86 In a further attempt to reduce the EEC's massive butter by Mr Jens-Peter Bonde (ARC — DK) mountain the Commission has decided that butter to the Commission of the European Communities bought out of stocks to be turned into cooking butter (30 October 1986) will be sold more cheaply. The reduction from the usual price is 263 ECU per 100 kg instead of 243 ECU. Can (87/C 226/10) the Commission say:

Subject: Imbalances in border trade between Denmark 1. why it has decided to cut the price of cooking and the Federal Republic of Germany butter ?

Would the Commission give a detailed account of the 2. what extra burden this further cut will place on the economic impact of the liberalization measures sched­ EEC budget ? uled to take effect on 1 January 1987, 1 January 1988 and 1 January 1989? 3. how much butter has already been sold under the cooking butter scheme: Would the Commission account for the current imbal­ ances in border trade and, if possible, indicate whether a) overall, there is a willingness to defer the planned liberalization of the regulations concerned ? b) broken down by Member State, 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/9

c) broken down by type of purchaser (private indi­ alteration in the selling price of butter, and thus to viduals, catering firms, hotels, restaurants, hos­ boost sales. pitals, schools, etc.) ?

how much more butter it thinks will be sold through 2. Since the increase in the price reduction in 1986, a this further reduction for cooking butter. further 7 000 tonnes of butter were sold in concentrated form, representing an additional cost of 1.4 million ECU. However, available funds covered this cost, as smaller quantities were sold early in the year. In view Answer given by Mr Andriessen of the results, an even larger quantity can be expected on behalf of the Commission for 1987. A corresponding budget allocation has been (4 May 1987) approved under the special financing arrangement for the disposal of butter stocks. 1. The price reduction was conceded to make con­ centrated butter once again competitive with other fats, the prices of which had dropped sharply since the last Sales were as follows:

1985 1986

TO­ NOV/ APR MAY JUNE JULY AUG SEPT OCT DEC JAN FEBR MAR TAL

B 4 410 1270 250 418 307 32 199 100 863 588 231 8 668 DK — — — — 177 57 33 — 34 — 22 323 BRD 1 879 1821 652 74 109 222 945 572 858 952 865 8 949 EL — — 21 — 21 — — — — 42 — 84 F 1237 1305 42 108 44 88 44 — 44 66 44 3 022 IRL — — 100 — — — — — — — — 100 IT LUX NL 2 424 1354 477 — — 157 643 385 264 365 592 6 661 UK 36 66 378 444 76 158 160 125 153 173 153 1 922

EWG 9 986 5 816 1920 1044 734 714 2 024 1 182 2 216 2 186 1 907 29 729

4. About 30 000 tonnes on an annual basis on the 2. Are any undertakings based in the EEC involved in assumption that price ratios between concentrated but­ these deals ? ter and competing fats remained unchanged. 3. Which countries outside the EEC are involved ?

4. How does the Commission view the strong sus­ picion that EEC cereals are being supplied to South Africa by these countries ? What steps does it intend to take to prevent this recurring in the future ? WRITTEN QUESTION No 1848/86 by Mr Frank Schwalba-Hoth (ARC — D) to the Commission of the European Communities (7 November 1986) Answer given by Mr Andriessen (87/C 226/12) on behalf of the Commission (27 April 1987) Subject: Cereals exports to South Africa

On 4 October 1986 The Citizen, a South African news­ 1, 2 and 3. The Commission has no information on paper published in Johannesburg, reported that Foreign the points raised by the Honourable Member. Minister Botha had received offers of cereals supplies from various quarters. 4. No decision has been taken concerning the prohib­ ition of exports of cereals to South Africa. 1. Are any EEC Member States among those countries which made such offers ? If so, which ? No C 226/10 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1891/86 oriented policy, it does not believe that the experience by Mr Richard Cottrell (ED — GB) gained from the action taken by the New Zealand authorities had much relevance to the future develop­ to the Commission of the European Communities ment of this policy in view of the radically different (13 November 1986) circumstances between agriculture within the Com­ (87/C 226/13) munity and in New Zealand. (]) Doc. COM(85) 333 final. Subject: Suspension of farm subsidies in New Zealand

Is the Commission aware that the New Zealand Government has suspended all farm subsidies? What lessons does the Commission believe this offers for the future of the Common Agricultural Policy ? WRITTEN QUESTION No 1894/86 by Mr John Iversen (COM — DK) Answer given by Mr Andriessen to the Commission of the European Communities on behalf of the Commission (13 November 1986) (31 March 1987) (87/C 226/14)

The Commission is aware that the New Zealand Subject: Community subsidy of exports to Iran Government has in recent times made significant Would the Commission state the total amount of export changes in its agricultural support arrangements. refunds on exports to Iran for 1983, 1984 and 1985 The New Zealand Governement made a Statement on broken down by principal products ? What proportion rural policy on 2 July 1986. In this it pointed out that of these exports were goods of Danish origin and what rural New Zealand is at present facing its most difficult was the amount of export refunds on these ? crisis for fifty years. It also noted that the farm industry problems in New Zealand were an aspect of a major restructuring of the New Zealand economy. With respect to agriculture this restructuring, the statement Answer given by Mr Andriessen noted, reflected the removal of subsidies which formerly on behalf of the Commission protected New Zealand farmers from the realities of (27 April 1987) world markets. The Commission acknowledges that the actions taken The Commission does not have information which by the New Zealand authorities in recent times consti­ enables it to reply precisely to the question put by the tute a significant step in exposing farmers in that coun­ Honourable Member. However, the following infor­ try to the realities of the market. Although the Com­ mation concerning exports to Iran of agricultural prod­ mission in its paper 'Perspectives for the Common ucts from the Community, and from Denmark, may be Agricultural Policy'^) advocated a more market of interest.

1000 ECU

EC'IO' o f which Denmark Products 1983 1984 1985 1983 1984 1985

Live animals 8 156 4 247 7 889 582 792 825 Meat, etc. 76 467 82 330 53 076 1 186 2 515 101 Dairy products 223 736 213 972 118 715 84 892 95 584 51940 Cereals 7 035 64 145 16 270 0 4 525 0 Oilseeds 10 085 13 133 6 357 131 162 924 Oils and fats 15 948 17 464 21538 2 484 4 3 Miscellaneous edible preparations 67 951 87 479 83 228 3 398 223 96 Plant residues 22 293 25 108 4 590 779 6 761 11 Other not specified above 128 509 94 270 130 105 58 302 114 TOTAL 560 180 602 148 441 768 93 510 110 868 54 014 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/11

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1907/86 has assumed responsibility for the fisheries agreement by Mr Klaus Hansch (S — D) concluded by Spain and Morocco in 1883. to the Commission of the European Communities 1. Does this agreement contain a clause referring to (13 November 1986) the annexation of the Western Sahara's territorial (87/C 226/15) waters by Morocco ?

Subject: Execution of political prisoners in Indonesia 2. What position will the Community adopt on the issue of the Western Sahara's territorial waters In its resolution of 9 October 1986, the European Parlia­ when the agreement is renegotiated? ment deplored the execution a short time before of political prisoners in Indonesia and called on the Com­ mission and other bodies to raise the question of these executions and the situation of the remaining political prisoners in its contacts with the Indonesian authorities Answer given by Mr Cardoso e Cunha and during the meeting with the ASEAN States. on behalf of the Commission (1 April 1987) 1. Did the Commission do so ? 1. The cooperation agreement on sea fishing con­ cluded between Spain and Morocco on 1 August 2. With what success ? 1983 does not contain any clause of the type men­ tioned by the Honourable Member.

2. Fisheries agreements relate to the fishing possibilit­ Answer given by Mr Cheysson ies allocated to the Community in waters under on behalf of the Commission the sovereignty or jurisdiction of the non-memeber (10 March 1987) country concerned; matters of territorial delimi­ tation do not fall within the competence of the Community. 1. The Commission representative took the oppor­ tunity during the numerous contacts with the Indonesian authorities at the 7th EEC-ASEAN minis­ terial meeting, held in Jakarta on 20 and 21 October, to censure severely the recent resumption of executions of political prisoners in Indonesia. He thereby expressed severe disapproval of the practice of carrying out executions long after the penalty was imposed, a prac­ tice which is a matter of national law but which is morally repugnant.

2. In view of the context no comment is possible. The Commission is convinced that only contacts in a WRITTEN QUESTION No 1935/86 restricted framework stand any change of persuading the authorities to have proper respect for human rights. By Mrs Marie-Noelle Lienemann (S — F) to the Commission of the European Communities (21 November 1986) (87/C 226/17)

Subject: Observance of Community rules in respect of radioactivity

Measurements of radioactivity levels recently carried WRITTEN QUESTION No 1914/86 out on hay in certain regions of France reveal a level of radioactivity much higher than what is admissible by Mrs Barbara Simons (S — D) under Community standards. If animals absorb radio­ to the Commission of the European Communities activity as a result of eating this hay, it could have (21 November 1986) serious consequences for the whole food chain and thus for the health of the people of Europe. The farmers (87/C 226/16) who have grown the hay cannot be held responsible for this situation. Subject: Fisheries agreement between Spain and Morocco What does the Commission intend to do to ensure that Community Standards on radioactivity levels in Since the accession of Spain, the European Community agricultural products are strictly observed ? No C 226/12 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87

Answer given by Mr Andriessen police. Since the journey sheet and list of passengers on behalf of the Commission required under Regulation No 117/66 EEC(1) had not (27 April 1986) been drawn up, the driver asked to do this there and then. The French police would not allow this, however, and imposed an on-the-spot fine of 900 French Francs. To ensure that the Community's radioactivity stan­ dards for agricultural products are complied with and, 1. Does the Commission consider the refusal by the in particular, that the food chain is not affected by the French police to allow the passenger-list required consumption by animals of feedingstuffs with a high under Regulation No 117/66 EEC to be drawn up content of radioactive elements, the Member States on the spot and the imposition of a fine to be have undertaken, through the Standing Committee for compatible with this Community provision ? Feedingstuffs, to maintain intensive monitoring of the contamination levels of animal feedingstuffs and to 2. Does it consider the requirement of a coach journey communicate the results to the Commission. sheet containing a list of passenger names to be compatible with the aim of a common internal market and, in comparison with air and rail trans­ The results communicated by the French authorities for port, with the EEC Treaty provisions on compe­ 914 analyses carried out on milk, whey and cereals tition ? between May and the end of September 1986 show extremely low levels of contamination of radioelements. 3. Is it prepared to submit an amendment of Regu­ lation No 117/66/EEC to the Council abolishing Following reports of more serious contamination in the requirement for a coach journey sheet with certain parts of the country, the French monitoring passenger list ? authorities carried out special tests on hay and silage (') OJ No 147, 9. 8. 1966, p. 2688/66. in November 1986.

The average caesium-134 and -137 activity for 99 samples was 202 Bq/kg. A high level (3 410 Bq/kg) was Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis recorded for only one sample. on behalf of the Commission (14 April 1987) However, further investigation having revealed local 1. The Commission will answer this part of the isolated values of up to 6 000 Bq/kg contamination, the Honourable Member's question as soon as it is in meat and milk from animals of the areas in question possession of all the necessary information which it has were subjected to stricter monitoring. This did not requested from the French authorities. reveal any cases where the levels permitted in the Com­ munity were exceeded. 2. and 3. In the context of the work on amending the Community rules on the international carriage of passengers by coach and bus, the Commission will propose that the obligation to draw up a passenger list be dropped. In addition, the current rules in force in this field provide that the Member States may agree on a bilateral or multilateral level to waive the obligation to draw up a passenger list.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 1983/86 by Mr Karl von Wogau (PPE — D) to the Commission of the European Communities WRITTEN QUESTION No 1985/86 (24 November 1986) By Mr Pieter Dankert (S — NL) (87/C 226/18) to the Commission of the European Communities Subject: Abolition of journey sheet with passenger list (24 November 1986) for bus and coach travel within the Com­ (87/C 226/19) munity Subject: Settlement of the European Communities On a trip to Ronchamp on 12 September 1986 a coach belonging to the company will from M3llheim near 1. For which Member States has the Commisssion Freiburg im Breisgau was inspected by the French disallowed the 1982 'summary report' drawn up by its 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/13

departments? If so, for what items; and for what WRITTEN QUESTION No 1995/86 reasons and for which Member States has expenditure by Mr Roberto Cicciomessere, Mrs Emma Bonino and been approved ? Mr Marco Pannella (NI — I) to the Commission of the European Communities 2. Has the Commission thereby departed from the (24 November 1986) 1982 'summary report' drawn up by its departments? (87/C 226/20) If so, for what items; and for what reasons and for which Member States has expenditure been approved ? Subject: Marketing of modems and observance of EEC Treaty provisions 3. For which Member States does the 1983 'summary report' drawn up by the Commission departments rec­ ommend that 1983 expenditure under the common agri­ The telecommunications administrations of many of cultural policy be disallowed? What amounts are the Community countries (including Italy, Belgium and involved and to what regulations does such expenditure the Federal Republic of Germany) have a monopoly on relate ? the marketing, installation and maintenance of modems (equipment enabling remote computers to be connected to the public telephone network), in violation of Articles 95 and 35 of the Treaty of Rome, which prohibit 4. Has the Commisssion in the meantime reached a discrimination by public undertakings between sup­ decision on the EAGGF's final accounts for 1983 ? pliers and against competitors from other Member States and seek to prevent restriction or distortion of trade between the Member States; furthermore, these public administrations impose charges for lease and 5. If so, has the Commisssion departed from the use of packet-switching telematic networks which are 1983 'summary report' drawn up by its departments ? excessive, unjustified and undifferentiated and penalize If so, for what items; and for what reasons and for the exchange and transmission of data between Com­ which Member States has expenditure been approved ? munity countries, in particular making it prohibitively expensive for individuals with personal computers to access the public telematics network; finally, other mon­ opoly practices regarding arrangements for access to telematic networks and for the supply of services and of terminals violate Article 37 of the Treaty of Rome, in particular.

Answer given by Mr Andriessen on behalf of the Commission In view of the above observations, can the Commission (29 April 1987) say what initiatives it intends to take in order to ensure compliance with the Treaty in the highly sensitive but 1. The amounts disallowed in respect of 1982 are strategic sector of telematics? indicated in the Commission decisions on the clearance of the accounts of the EAGGF Guarantee Section for 198211).

2 to 5. The Commission bases its decisions on the information and proposals as a whole prepared by all Answer given by Mr Sutherland the departments concerned. It should be pointed out in on behalf of the Commission this connection that the 'summary report' is a document (17 March 1987) drawn up for consultation by the EAGGF Committee. As a result of such consultation, adjustments may be introduced and essential additional information The exclusive rights to import and market modems included to be taken into consideration by the Com­ maintained in some Member States are caught by mission. Following that procedure, on 7 January 1987 Article 37 of the EEC Treaty. Articles 35 and 95, the Commission took its decision on the clearance of referred to by the Honourable Members, relate to quan­ accounts for 1983. titative restrictions on imports and to indirect taxation respectively; they are therefore not relevant to the situ­ (!) JO No L 256, 9. 9. 1986. ation described.

Following representations made by the Commission, the German authorities have undertaken to liberalize trade in modems in the Federal Republic of Germany. No C 226/14 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87

In Belgium, the Regie des Telegraphes et Telephones 3. How can students be expected to study or qualify maintains a monopoly only in respect of modems with in countries other than their country of origin under a transmission speed of less than 2 400 bauds. In Italy, these circumstances? the SIP does indeed have a monopoly over the marketing of modems.

The Commisssion has no information to enable it to assess whether or not the charges imposed for the use of packet-switched networks are excessive. Community Answer given by Lord Cockfield nationals with personal computers are subject to the on behalf of the Commission same conditions as business and professional users. (27 April 1987) The establishment and maintenance of a monopoly in services for reasons of public interest of a non-economic nature is not incompatible with the EEC Treaty. How­ 1. According to the Commission's information, the ever, such monopolies must comply with the rules of Federal Republic authorizes Community nationals trai­ the Treaty, particularly those relating to competition. ned as engineers in higher education establishments in other Member States to use the following titles, subject to the approval of the competent German authorities: The Commission has instituted proceedings against a number of Member States under Article 37 in order to — the German title for a qualified engineer, and secure the abolition of exclusive rights over the market­ — the title received in the country of training. ing of terminals (including modems and telex equip­ ment). 2. This system is not in breach of Community law since there is at present no Council Directive estab­ The Commission is also currently examining whether lishing mutual recognition of engineering qualifications a particular Member State's requirement that imported between the Member States. It is therefore up to the terminals may be marketed only if they conform to the German authorities to decide whether or not to reco­ national standards in force is compatible with Article gnize foreign diplomas and to determine the conditions 30 et seq. of the EEC Treaty. on which the German equivalent title can be used by the migrant engineer.

Finally, the Commission is currently formulating an 3. It is not clear how this system, which is both overall approach to the problems arising from techno­ specific and objective, could be considered as pejorative logical developments and the deregulation envisaged in or likely to impede the mobility of students. the telecommunications sector.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2074/86 WRITTEN QUESTION No 2034/86 by Mr Manuel Cantarero del Castillo (ED — E) by Mrs Ursula Braun-Moser (PPE — D) to the Commission of the European Communities to the Commission of the European Communities (24 November 1986) (28 November 1986) (87/C 226/22) (87/C 226/21) Subject: Community newsprint purchasing authority Subject: Differences in the use of titles and other quali­ fications for engineers in the EEC One of the major difficulties facing newspaper pub­ lishers is the supply of newsprint. Its high cost, which 1. Is the Commission aware that the title of 'Diplom- is difficult to cover out of the revenue received from Ingenieur' awarded in France or any other EEC Member the sale of newspapers and other forms of income, often State outside Germany may only be used in the Federal results in a deficit which has to be covered by State Republic followed by the name of the country in ques­ subsidies, thus compromising newspaper publishers' tion, e.g. Dipl.-Ing. (France)? political independence. For this reason those involved in producing newspapers 2. What action is the Commission taking against in various Member States feel the solution to this prob­ such discrimination particularly in view of the fact that lem may lie in setting up a Community newsprint additions of this kind (Ing.-grad. etc.) are regarded as purchasing authority, to secure a more favourable price pejorative in Germany? for this raw material on the international market by 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/15

dealing in bulk and thereby enable newspaper pub­ This is due mainly to the dollar. In the United States, lishers, especially small and medium-sized ones, to be the main customer, the volume of sales fell by 17%. completely independant of their respective States, since they would not have to resort to the subsidies which often inhibit their freedom of expression. Does the Commission envisage measures to support the Does the Commission consider it would be worth inves­ export of cognac to new markets (Far East, Japan) in tigating the possibility of setting up the aforementioned order to maintain the level of production in this sector Community purchasing authority, in order to solve the in agricultural areas where there is little diversification? problems of many Community newspaper publishers as described?

Answer given by Mr De Clercq Answer given by Lord Cockfield on behalf of the Commission on behalf of the Commission (9 April 1987) (31 March 1987) The figures show that total exports of cognac in the The Commission does not take the view that the prob­ 1985/1986 marketing year were 119 619 999 bottles. lem of State subsidies to the press, which exist in one form or another in several Member States, would be solved by setting up a Community-level newsprint pur­ The drop in exports would appear, therefore, to be chasing authority. equal to 2.91% by comparison with the preceding mar­ The Commission believes it important instead to main­ keting year (123 211 399 bottles exported), exports tain effective competition on the supply side since the showed a rise of 29.7% over the intervening period. best guarantee of newsprint for newspaper publishers at a fair price is free competition on both the supply and demand sides. The drop in exports between 1984/1985 and 1985/1986 It seems unlikely that all Member States would support would seem to be due mainly to the decline of sales in the establishment of a purchasing authority of this kind the United States (down 17.4%) and in Canada (down and in practice it would be very difficult and expensive 41.53%), probably as a result of the fall in the value of for it to operate at Community level. Consequently, it the dollar. is doubtful whether any reductions in the price of newsprint that might arise in practice would offset the operating costs so as to reduce newspaper publishers' Over the same period, however, there was a strong rise costs. in exports to Japan (up 21.05%), Hong Kong (up 18.74%) and Singapore (up 8.82%).

The Commission has made a number of efforts in recent years to promote Community exports of, among other things, alcoholic beverages, notably on various markets in the Far East (Japan and South Korea in particular). Where this particular product category and these par­ ticular countries are concerned, the Commission's aim is to have barriers removed and imports liberalized. The Commission has never considered and is not con­ WRITTEN QUESTION No 2084/86 sidering any measures to support the export of cognac; nevertheless, the alcoholic beverages issue is still on the by Mr Luc Beyer de Ryke (LDR — B) agenda for meetings between Commission representa­ to the Commission of the European Communities tives and the authorities of countries where it is hoped (2 December 1986) to expand the market for this product category. In the specific case of Japan, where exports of cognac in (87/C 226/23) bottles account for only a smalf part of the Japanese spirits market, the Commission has filed a petition in Subject: French cognac exports — Effect of the weak­ GATT concerning the discriminatory system of dom­ ness of the dollar estic taxation of spirits.

For the first time for 4 years, cognac exports fell during the 1985/1986 marketing year. 113.3 million bottles were exported, a 3.9% fall in volume over the previous marketing year. No C 226/16 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2128/86 accident. The results of that survey, published in report by Mrs Marie-Noelle Lienemann (S — F) EUR 8271, demonstrate that a number of agreements exist between the Member States for the purpose of to the Commission of the European Communities ensuring cooperation and mutual medical assistance. (10 December 1986) (87/C 226/24) Following the Chernobyl accident, work is currently Subject: Persons exposed to radiation in progress within various national and international bodies with a view to examining the need for closer Does the Commission consider that the legislation cur­ cooperation in those areas, particularly as regards bone rently in force provides adequate compensation for marrow transplants. The Commission intends to exam­ persons exposed to radiation (either at work or in the ine the results of such work in order to identify any event of nuclear accidents)? problems existing within the Community and to take appropriate action where necessary.

Does it not consider that it is necessary to affirm that (!) OJ No 80, 31. 8. 1962, p. 2188/62. any person exposed to radiation has a right to the best (2) Council Directive 467/84/Euratom, OJ No L 265, 5. 10. 1984, possible chance of recovery? Does it not consider that p.4. in view of the small number of bone marrow transplant specialists in the world, it would be helpful to encourage the setting up of an international team that would be available to deal with problems of this nature?

Does it not consider that measures should be taken to promote the setting-up of a special court to deal with nuclear matters, to which radiation victims could appeal?

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2147/86 by Mr Jose Alvares de Paz (S — E) to the Commission of the European Communities Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis on behalf of the Commission (16 December 1986) (3 April 1987) (87/C 226/25)

Subject: The Belgian Government's discontinuation of Although diseases caused by ionizing radiation are measures to promote the education of the chil­ included in the European list of occupational diseases dren of migrant workers in accordance with attached to the recommendation of 23 July 1962 ('), Directive 77/486/EEC compensation for persons who have contracted such diseases as a result of occupational exposure and appeals to courts are governed by national legislation. Possible compensation for members of the public fol­ On 14 January 1986 the Belgian Minister of French- lowing a nuclear accident is also covered by legal pro­ Language Education notified the Commission of the visions in a number of Member States. The Commission measures taken to implement Directive 77/486/EEC (*) does not consider it necessary to intervene in the Mem­ (the education of the children of migrant workers). ber States' handling of such matters. An analysis of the stage reached in the implementation As regards protection against and the treatment of overexposure ot ionizing radiation, it should be borne of these measures reveals that: in mind that the Euratom Treaty contains provisions relating to these fields, and in particular to compliance with the Basic Safety Standards. The latter, which were 1. there is to be no appointment of an inspector laid down as early as 2 February 1959 by means of a responsible for measures to promote the education Council Directive, have been revised or amended on of the children of migrants; several occasions (in 1962, 1966, 1976, 1980 and, most recently, 1984) (2) in line with progress in scientific knowledge and radiation protection techniques and 2. the provision whereby in nursery schools where changes in the conceptual approach to the matter. more than 30% of the children are foreigners each foreign child should, according to circumstances, be A survey was carried out among the Member States in counted as either 2, 1.5 or 1.3 when the number of 1983 concerning mutual medical assistance measures teaching staff is being calculated, has been abol­ that could be put into effect in the event of a nuclear ished; 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/17

3. no account has been taken of the recommendation countries of the Maghreb always include a section by the Director-General for Basic Education that in covering the education of the children of migrant wor­ each school a person should be appointed respon­ kers. sible for liaising between the school and migrant families and for organizing, where possible, courses 6. The pilot experiment in intercultural education in their language and culture; and the teaching of the language and culture of the country of origin, carried out under the auspices of the 4. for three years the agreement between Spain and Ministry of Education (French-speaking), was renewed the French-speaking Community providing for the for the 1986/1987 school year. employment of three teachers of Spanish origin who completed their studies in Belgium has been 7. The Ministry of Education circular of 23 August unilaterally cancelled; 1985 on the use of school premises for the teaching of the language and culture of the country of origin is still 5. the agreement between Morocco and Belgium on in force. the participation of Moroccan teachers has been cancelled; In its second report on the implementation of Directive 77/486/EEC, the Commission will make a detailed 6. it is impossible to continue with the multicultural analysis of each national situation. education pilot experiment carried out by the national education authorities and the Commission;

7. the circular issued by the Ministry of Education on 25 August 1985 has not been implemented.

Does the Commission intend to take any measures to deal with this situation? WRITTEN QUESTION No 2153/86 by Mr Kenneth Collins (S — GB) (!) OJ No L 199, 6. 8. 1977, p. 32 to the Commission of the European Communities (16 December 1986) (87/C 226/26)

Subject: Integration of consumer policies in other com­ mon policies

Is the Commission aware of the resolution of 29 Octo­ ber 1986 by the Consumer Affairs Council on the inte­ gration of consumer policies in other common policies ? Answer given by Mr Marin on behalf of the Commission What action is being taken to ensure that there will (6 April 1987) be 'greater account of consumers' interests in other Community policies, especially those concerned with completion of the international market, in particular 1. The appointment of a national official responsible regarding improvements to the quality of products and for the education of the children of migrant workers services, and with agriculture, competition and trans­ and of local or regional advisers on the education of port' ? migrants is the sole responsibility of the educational authorities of the Member States.

2. and 3. The appointment under the special tempor­ ary employment programme of teachers assigned to the WRITTEN QUESTION No 2325/86 teaching of the children of migrant workers is a highly by Mrs Caroline Jackson (ED — GB) laudable initiative aimed at facilitating the reception of such children in the Belgian education system. to the Commission of the European Communities (14 January 1987) 4. The agreement between the Ministry of Education (87/C 226/27) (French-speaking) and Spain on the employment of young teachers of migrant origin for the education of Subject: The integration of consumer policy with other migrant children remains in force. EC policies

5. It is not up to the Commission to pass judgment What action is the Commission taking to implement on bilateral agreements between Member States and the resolution of 29 October 1986 by the Consumer non-Community countries. The Commission points Affairs Council on the integration of consumer policies out that the agreements on manpower with the in other common policies ? No C 226/18 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87

Answer given by Mr Varfis ment depends on a competitive environment, it is essen­ on behalf of the Commission tial to limit wage costs and other charges. Should the (26 March 1987) Community not, therefore, encourage its Member States to modify public expenditure with a view to reducing taxation, social security contributions and, in particular, local taxation ? The Commission would call the Honourable Member's attention to the fact that in accordance with Com­ munity rules, the Commission was largely associated with the preparation of the Resolution adopted by the Council on 29 October 1986 concerning the integration of a consumer policy with other common policies. This was in response to the considerations and proposals made by the Commission in the communication adopted on 13 October (l) and forwarded to the Council. The communication was also forwarded to Parliament for information.

Answer given by Mr Pfeiffer on behalf of the Commission In the communication referred to above, the Com­ mission specifies the guidelines for the work it proposes (1 April 1987) to undertake with regard to the various common poli­ cies. In 1987, the Commission will undertake analyses of the impact on consumer interests of certain aspects of common policies and seek to reinforce the concer- The Annual Economic Report 1986-1987, adopted by tation of procedures between the departments con­ the Council in December 1986, examines the conditions cerned on the basis of those introduced on agricultural for an effective implementation of the cooperative matters. To evaluate progress with regard to procedures growth strategy for more employment, endorsed last and the content of common policies the Commission year by the Council. In this Report the role of public will forward a report to the Council at the year end. finance policy in implementing the cooperative strategy is underlined. It is stressed that policy in this area has (') Doc. COM(86) 540 final. an important but difficult role to play in pursuing the goal of medium-term consolidation of public finances, while at the same time exploiting existing and future room for manoeuvre in a determined fashion. Moreover, it is underlined that the conditions governing supply need to be further improved, by reinforcing economic potential and competitiveness, and simultaneously assuring an adequate growth in demand, through the lowering of taxes and social security contributions and by stepping up public investment.

Thus while it is recognised that some reduction of social WRITTEN QUESTION No 2158/86 security contributions, relying on the use of available by Mr Robert Delorozoy (LDR — F) headroom and not affecting either the quality of social to the Commission of the European Communities protection regimes or their financial balance, could help to strengthen employment, this is part of an overall (16 December 1986) policy to improve the employment-content of growth. (87/C 226/28) Member States have been encouraged to use the room for manoeuvre which is available, or emerging, to create more favourable conditions for increasing employment. Subject: Growth — Employment and reductions in tax­ The requirements and situations of individual Member ation and social security contributions States differ markedly in respect of headroom available and the use to which this headroom should be put. In some countries this could involve a cut in taxes and social insurance contributions while in others it could Economic growth in the Member States of the European imply an increase in public investment or specific meas­ Community has been stimulated by the domestic ures to improve the employment possibilities for those demand generated as a result of falling oil prices. In without jobs. order to sustain for the period 1986-1990 the annual growth rate of 3-3.5% necessary to achieve favourable employment levels, it is essential to stimulate domestic demand while encouraging the supply of goods and services throught investment and savings. Since employ­ 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/19

WRITTTN QUESTION No 2179/86 retirement ages for men and women in the countries by Mr Ben Visser (S — NL) concerned at that time. to the Commission of the European Communities (16 December 1986) 2. The Commission does not participate in nego­ tiations between railways so it has no specific infor­ (87/C 226/29) mation on the positions taken by the individual under­ takings concerned. Subject: Qualifying age for senior citizens' railcards

3. To date, the railways have been unable to reach 1. Dutch Railways used to make available a senior agreement on a single minimum age in spite of repeated citizens' railcard to women aged 60 and over and men attempts by some of their number. aged 65 and over. However, the Commission is planning to propose a Some time ago the qualifying age was made the same single age of retirement in the Member States as part for both men and women so as to reflect changes in of its policy to promote more flexible retirement society, and today anyone who has reached the age of arrangements, as provided for in the medium-term 60 is entitled to a card. (1986-1990) Community programme on equal oppor­ tunities for women)5). The Commission departments Because of IUR(1) rules, however, it is not possible to concerned are drafting a new legal instrument on the use the same qualifying age in the case of international subject. travel, even though Dutch Railways are quite prepared (•) OJNoC31,6. 2. 1984. to do so. (2) OJ No C 269, 21. 10. 1985. (3) OJ No C 123, 22. 5. 1986. (4) OJ No L 237, 26. 8. 1983. 2. Does the Commission consider it right that, by (5) Doc. COM(85) 801 final. virtue of IUR regulations, the ages at which men and women qualify for senior citizen reductions differ where international rail travel is concerned ?

2. Is it right, specifically, that French Railways should wish to retain the qualifying age of 65 for men ? WRITTEN QUESTION No 2182/86 3. What action does the Commission intend to take by Mr Giorgio Rossetti (COM — I) to have the qualifying age set at 60 for both men and to the Commission of the European Communities women ? (16 December 1986) (') IUR — International Union of Railways (87/C 226/30)

Subject: Funding of transport infrastructure under the Community's policy for the Mediterranean

1. Does the Community provide financial assistance Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis towards infrastructure projects (ports, airports, roads, on behalf of the Commission railways) in Mediterranean countries with which it has (30 March 1987) signed technical and financial cooperation protocols ?

1. The Commission refers the Honourable Member 2. If so, for what projects, on what scale and follow­ to its answers to Written Questions No 1233/83 by ing what procedures has such assistance been provided ? Miss de Valera(1), No 777/85 by Mr Newton Dunn(2) and No 2982/85 by Mr Megahy(3). 3. For what other projects has the Community been asked for financial assistance ? Rail Europ Senior (RES) is a commercial scheme agreed between 19 railways cooperating under the auspices of the UIC. According to Council Decision 83/418/EEC (4), this is one of the areas covered by the arrangements for commercial independence in the management of Answer given by M. Cheysson railway undertakings. The Commission cannot, there­ on behalf of the Commission fore, intervene to impose a single minimum age. (23 March 1987)

The Commission understands that the present arrange­ Between 1969 and 1986, the Community has financed ment, made in 1983, is a compromise based on the 19 transport projects of the kind referred to by the No C 226/20 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87

Honourable Member in eight Mediterranean countries Some 491 million ECU were in loans from the EIB's which have concluded financial protocols with the EEC, own resources. Their duration ranged from 15 to 20 for a total of some 554 million ECU. years. As the Bank raises the bulk of its funds on capital markets and works on a non-profit-making basis, its Of this total, 62 million ECU ware in loans on special interest rates are close to the cost of its borrowings. conditions from EEC budgetary resources (and in the Most of these loans benefited from a 2 % interest sub­ case of Turkey from the initial six Member States) with sidy as foreseen under the financial protocols signed terms ranging from 30 to 40 years at between 1 % and with the different countries from grant-aid from Com­ 3 % interest. These loans are managed by the EIB under munity budgetary resources. A breakdown by country mandate from the Commission. of finance provided by the Community for transport 1.4 million ECU was advanced as a grant by the Com­ projects is as follows (in million ECU): mission from budgetary resources for a road project in Syria.

Ports Roads Rai ways TOTAL No of Country Projects FIB Budget F.IB Budget EIB Budget

Algeria 25 110 — 135 3 Egypt 25 — — — — — 25 1 Malta 3 5 — — — — 8 1 Morocco 59 14 _ _ — — 73 3 Syria (a) — — 34 4,9 — — 38,9 3 Tunisia — — — — 17 15 32 2 Turkey (b) — — — 20 — 4,4 24,4 2 Jugoslavia — — 151,7 — 66,3 — 218 4

Total 112 19 295,7 24,9 83,3 19,4 554,3 19

N.B. Budget aid in the form of loans on special conditions except for: (a) Syria: 4.9 Mecu of budget aid consisted of 1.4 Mecu grants and 3.9 Mecu special loans (b) Part of the special loans from EFC Member States' own budgets (Protocols I and II).

A complete list with descriptions of loans made by the Under Council Directive 83/182/EEC(1), certain means EIB each year can be found in the Bank's annual reports. of transport are exempt from turnover tax, excise duties The EIB only publishes information on projects at the or other consumption taxes in the Member States for time of loan contract signature when it usually issues a maximum period, whether continuous or not, of six a press release. months in any twelve.

Experience has shown that six months is a highly arbi­ trary figure; it is particularly inconvenient for individ­ WRITTEN QUESTION No 2186/86 uals from one Member State who wish to use private vehicles in another Member State for a longer period. by Mr Ben Visser (S — NL) The fact of personal movement in the European Com­ to the Commission of the European Communities munity. The provision is also extremely inconvenient for certain categories of tourist abroad for a lengthy (16 December 1986) period. (87/C 226/31)

Subject: Future Commission proposals on expanding the scope of arrangements governing the tem­ 1. What is the Commission's position with regard to porary import of certain means of transport this six-month period? 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/21

2. In the light of the above, does the Commission 3. The Commission considers that a system of per­ believe that this period should be extended in respect mits which would enable Member States to extend the of cars in particular? initial period of exemption for a further period would pose a number of administrative difficulties.

3. In the Commission' view, would it be possible to The Commission's immediate approach to this matter introduce a system of permits in respect of cars for is to propose the amendment of the abovementioned use in a Member State other than that of regis­ Directive in order ot facilitate the temporary import­ tration, under which, after six months or a longer ation of vehicles by individuals resident in the Com­ period, owners would be granted the tax exemp­ munity and to authorize their use by residents of the tions referred to in the Directive for a limited but Member State of importation. extendable period, with the details thereof to be Finally, the Commission would point out that in 1985 specified in the said permits? it presented a White Paper on completing the internal market, which provides for tax frontiers to be abolished 0) OJ No L 105, 23. 4. 1983, p. 59 by 31 December 1992. As soon as those frontiers are abolished, private individuals will be free, from a tax viewpoint, to import private vehicles purchased in any Member State without any time limit being imposed.

(') Doc. COM(87) 14 final.

Answer given by Lord Cockfield on behalf of the Commission (30 March 1987) WRITTEN QUESTION No 2191/86 by Mr Gijs de Vries (LDR — NL) 1. The Commission agrees with the Honourable Member that the period of six months referred to in to the Commission of the European Communities Article 3 of Directive 83/182/EEC could constitute an (16 December 1986) obstacle to the free movement of private vehicles in the (87/C 226/32) Community. It is for that reason that the Directive provides, for example, for a period of seven months in any twelve in the case of private vehicles imported by Subject: The Japanese-United States of America cartel the commercial intermediaries referred to in Article 3 in chips of Directive 64/224/EEC and that it gives Member ! States the option of maintaining and/or introducing In answer to Written Question No 668/86 ( ) the Com­ more liberal arrangements than those provided for in mission stated that it had asked the United States, Directive 83/182/EEC. Japan and GATT, under Article XXII of the General Agreement and Article 15 of the GATT Anti-dumping Code, for immediate consultations on the Japan-United In certain situations, however, that period may not be States of America agreement on semiconductors. What sufficient to cover the needs of persons whose pro­ has been the outcome of these talks and what further fessional ties are in another Member State. There is a initiatives is the Commission considering? growing number of people in the Community who work throughout the week in one Member State and (') OJ No C 149, 9. 6. 1987, p. 2. return only at weekends and during holidays to the Member State of normal residence in which they have their personal ties. The Commission has received com­ plaints because certain Member States have required people who pursue a profession in their territory to register their private vehicles there because the period WRITTEN QUESTION No No 2578/86 of six months has been exceeded. by Mr Luc Beyer de Ryke (LKR — B) to the Commission of the European Communities 2. In order to overcome the abovementioned diffi­ (2 February 1987) culties, the Commission recently transmitted to the (87/C 226/33) Council a proposal for a directive amending Directive 1 83/182/EEC( ). It is proposed that the period of tem­ Subject: Japan-United States of America agreement porary importation be extended to nine months in any on electronic components twelve where a person imports into the Member State where he has his occupational ties a vehicle which is The Commission has asked Japan for clarification of registered in his Member State of normal residence. the agreement it concluded with the United States of No C 226/22 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87

America on semi-conductors during the GATT consul­ WRITTEN QUESTION No 2215/86 tations in Geneva. by Mr Roland Gaucher (DR — F) to the Commission of the European Communities (22 December 1986) What was the Japanese response, and what if any comments does the Commission have to make? (87/C 226/34)

Subject: Action in the cultural sphere

Can the Commission give us the precise list of organiz­ ations which received financial aid from the EEC under Article 670 of the Budget and provide figures for the exact amounts paid to these organizations in 1985 and 1986.

Joint answer given by Mr De Clercq on behalf of the Commission to Written Questions No 2191/86, No 2578/86 (30 April 1987) Answer given by Mr Ripa di Meana on behalf of the Commission (30 April 1987) The Community, backed up by several non-Community countries, held consultations under Article XXII of the GATT on 20 November 1986 and 29 January 1987 with The Commission is sending a detailed list of the organ­ Japan and the United States of America concerning izations which received Community financial aid under their semiconductors arrangement. They focused on Article 670 of the budget and the exact amounts for three main points: transparency, discriminatory access which contracts were concluded with these organiz­ to the Japanese market and the clause in the semicon­ ations in 1985 directly to the Honourable Member and ductors arrangement which deals with Japanese surveil­ to Parliament's Secretariat. lance of export prices on third-country markets. On the last point the Commission has also initiated a Similar information for 1986 will be provided shortly. consultation, conciliation and dispute settlement pro­ cedure under Article 15 of the GATT Anti-dumping Code.

During the consultations the United States of America and Japan denied that their agreement was incompat­ ible with their obligations under GATT. They claimed to have notified the whole of the arrangement and not to have made any additional commitments in the form WRITTEN QUESTION No 2219/86 of an exchange of letters or other document. Japan turned down the Community's request for the clause by Mr Alman Metten (S — NL) in the semiconductors arrangement dealing with surveil­ to the Commission of the European Communities lance of export prices on third-country markets to be (22 December 1986) deleted. (87/C 226/35)

Subject: Steel imports from South Africa The Commission is disappointed by the unsatisfactory outcome of the consultations and in particular the incomplete nature of the answers given by the two 1. On 16 September 1986 the Council issued a parties. The refusal of the Japanese authorities to decision suspending imports of certain iron and steel ! remove the supervision of prices of exports to the products originating in South Africa (86/459/ESCS) ( ). European Community is particularly disappointing. This decision is not based on the Treaty but derives The Commission has asked the GATT Council to set only from the deliberations held in the framework of up a panel with a view to having the system for the European Political Cooperation. Does the Commission surveillance of export prices, which in its view contra­ consider that the Council has thereby created an venes GATT provisions, abolished. adequate legal basis for its action?

2. The above-cited Decision 86/459/ECSC did not preclude the putting into free circulation of products originating in South Africa to be imported in execution of contracts concluded before 19 September 1986 or in 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/23 course of shipment to the Community on that date. Is Will the Commission state, therefore, into which of the Commission prepared, on the basis of its powers these categories falls the practice of the UK authorities of control, to lay down and announce a date after of using 'Landing cards' for Community citizens board­ which no more imports will be accepted on the basis ing flights departing from Belfast for Amsterdam and of these two exceptions, so as to prevent abuse of these other destinations, a practice which the Commisssion escape clauses? has already declared, by virtue of the above Directive, to be 'consistent by way of derogation from the general (') OJ No L 268, 19. 9. 1986, p. 1. rule, with Community laws'?

Moreover, will the Commission explain how this prac­ tice is consistent with Article 3.1 of the above Directive, Answer given by Mr De Clercq i.e. that 'measures taken on grounds of public policy on behalf of the Commission or of public security shall be based exclusively on the personal conduct of the individual concerned'? (3 April 1987)

The Commission considers that the decision of Rep­ Since, as the Commission has stated in answer to Ques­ resentatives of the governments of Member States of tion 891/86 (4) that 'each individual case must be asses­ 16 September 1986 is legally valid. No specific legal sed before reasons of public policy can be invoked', basis is needed for a decision agreed by representatives would they not agree that it is highly unlikely that these of the goverments. measures can be justified for all the passengers of any given flight? The Commission does not intend to adopt or propose any measure of the kind suggested. Apart from foods imported under long-term contracts, it is now unlikely Will the Commission provide detailed and comprehen­ that any further shipments would be entitled to enter sive answers to the above points? the Community under the provisions referred to four months after the publication of the decision. (') OJNoC314, 8. 12. 1986 p. 1. (2) OJ No C 149, 9. 6. 1987 p. 4. (3) OJ No 56, 4. 4. 1964, p. 850/64. (4) OJ No C 72, 20. 3. 1987 p. 20.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2236/86 by Mr Thomas Raftery (PPE — IRL) Answer given by Lord Cockfield on behalf of the Commission to the Commission of the European Communities (22 December 1986) (31 March 1987) (87/C 226/36) As it has previously stated the Commission is aware that passengers on certain flights between Belfast and Subject: Landing cards on intra-Community flights other United Kingdom airports are subjected to pro­ cedures which include the completion of cards. These In answer to Written Question No 1789/85 (!) the Com­ procedures do not appear to fall within the present mission stated that 'not only are questions from border scope of Community law. officials concerning the purpose of visit, destination, duration of visit etc. superfluous, what is more, Com­ munity citizens are entitled to refuse to answer them'. As regards procedures at Belfast applied to passengers on international flights the Commission has decided to However, as the Commission states in reply to Question conduct a more detailed examination than has so far No 892/86, (2) 'exceptions are permitted for reasons of been the case so as to fully ascertain their actual nature public order as defined in Directive 64/221/EEC (3) of and, where appropriate, their compatibility with Com­ 25 February 1964'. As the Commission will be aware, munity law. Once this examination has been completed Article 21 of this Directive states that the 'Directive it will inform the Honourable Member of its findings. relates to all measures concerning entry into their terri­ tory, issue or renewal of residence permits, or expulsion from their territory taken by Member States on grounds of public policy, public security or public health'. No C 226/24 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2240/86 WRITTEN QUESTION No 2276/86 by Mr Florus Wijsenbeek (LDR — NL) by Mr Luc Beyer de Ryke (LDR — B) to the Commission of the European Communities to the Commission of the European Communities (12 January 1987) (12 January 1987) (87/C 226/37) (87/C 226/38)

Subject: Health insurance for foreigners in Spain Subject: 'Farming across frontiers' — EEC aid Is the Commission aware that the cost of medical treatment in Spain is so high compared with that in It is not enough to provide African countries in diffi­ other Community countries that health insurance pre­ culty with emergency food aid. Some French farmers miums for people from other countries spending the have left their own farms for a while in order to go winter in Spain ought to be increased by 300 % ? and teach people in the Third World how to work their How does the Commission explain this difference in land efficiently. costs? This new type of commitment, following in the footseps Does the Commission not agree that in view of the plan of 'Medecins san frontieres' or 'Association sans fron­ to build a People's Europe and of the steady increase tieres', produces results in the country itself which are in individual mobility, efforts, should be made to more effective and more worthwhile in the long term. develop a settlement system under which costs incurred and premiums are paid in the country of residence? Is the Commission familiar with this type of action?

Answer given by Mr Marin Does it intend to help draw the attention of all the on behalf of the Commission Member States and agricultural and other associations concerned with this problem to this type of action, (6 May 1987) other than by means of the ERDF?

Pensioners and members of their families covered by Does not the Commission feel that this type of initiative the provisions of Regulations (EEC) No 1408/71 and could help to rationalize and restructure certain sectors (EEC) No 574/72 on the application of social security of agriculture by encouraging the exportation of 'know- schemes to employed persons, to self-employed persons how' by a number of Community farmers, supported and to members of their families moving within the by EEC aid? Community (*) are entitled to the benefits in kind of the sickness insurance scheme when they are staying on the territory of a Member State other than the Member State in which they reside. These bevefits are provided by the sickness insurance scheme of the Member State in which they are staying in line with the provisions of the legislation which that scheme applies and at the expense of the sickness insurance scheme of the place of residence of the pen­ sioner (Article 31 of Regulation (EEC) No 1408/71). Answer given by Mr Natali on behalf of the Commission In order to take advantage of these provisions, the pensioner must be in possession of form E 111, (2) which (1 April 1987) is issued by the sickness insurance authorities of his place of residence (Article 31 of Regulation (EEC) No The Commission is aware of the work of 'Paysans sans 574/72). frontieres', which is part of the 'Agriculteurs francais Under this system there is no question of an increase et Developpement international' (AFDI) organization, in sickness insurance contributions because of a stay in and has already helped implement several of its projects. a specific Member State. This initiative is not the only one of its kind. For several However, the working of the question does not make years European farmers' organizations have worked it possible to say whether the persons in question come with non-governmental development organizations to within the scope of application of the Community transfer European agricultural know-how to Third Regulations cited. It would seem, rather, that they are World countries. In addition to its work with 'Paysans not covered by a statutory social security scheme, but sans frontieres' the Community has supported many have concluded private insurances. operations of this kind as part of its programme of The Commission is anxious that private insurance co-financing with the NGO's; the schemes have been should develop in a spirit of healthy international com­ carried out by organizations such as the 'Center agricole petition and thus has no intention of proposing any de relations internationales pour le developpement' kind of adjustment system. (CRIAD), in France.

(') OJ No L 230, 22. 8. 1893. 2 The Commission feels that thorough preparatory work ( ) OJ No L 192, 15. 7. 1986. would have to be done with the Community organi­ zations and farmers involved and also in the villages or 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/25

areas in developing countries where they wished to WRITTEN QUESTION No 2282/86 carry out their work, before the programme could be by Mr Luc Beyer de Ryke (LDR — B) extended. While the Commission is fully prepared to examine attentively any proposals presented to it, it to the Council of the European Communities does not itself intend to take any action to encourage (12 January 1987) oganizations or farmers to undertake this type of (87/C 226/40) activity given the possibility that the necessary pre­ paration might be lacking. Subject: Arrest of the 'Section de Jazz' band in Prague Furthermore, in view of the relatively small number of people likely to become involved, the Commission is of the opinion that this type of activity could help to On 5 August 1986, all the members of the rock-pop rationalize and restructure European agriculture to only band 'Section de Jazz' were accosted by the police in a very limited extent. Prague and arrested for anti-social activities.

Czechoslovakia is one of the 35 States signatory to the Helsinki Agreements, which include a chapter on human rights.

Freedom of expression in all forms, particularly through music, is a right recognized by all the signatory States.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2279/86 Will the Foreign Ministers use diplomatic channels to by Mr Luc Beyer de Ryke (LDR — B) secure the immediate release of the members of the rock to the Commission of the European Communities group 'Section de Jazz' by the Czechoslovak authorities and to ensure that they are not interfered with in future (12 January 1987) in the exercice of their right to freedom of artisitic (87/C 226/39) expression?

Subject: Falkland Islands — unilateral extension of the economic zone to 150 miles On 9 October, the British Government announced that it was extending the economic (and fishing) zone around the Falkland Islands in the South Atlantic to 150 miles. The political discussions on this issue had been 'frozen' since 1982 following the Falklands War between the United Kingdom and Argentina. l The British Government hopes that this measure will Answer ( ) put an end to the pillage of the waters of the South (10 July 1987) Atlantic, which are amongst the World's richest fishing grounds and where several species are reportedly threat­ ened with extinction. Controls are aimed chieftly at The Twelve are continuing to follow attentively devel­ fishing fleets from the Eastern bloc countries and from opments in the situation in Czechoslovakia. They make Japan and Korea, which have literally invaded the area. a point of individually and jointly emphasizing to the Czechoslovak authorities the need to comply fully with What is the Commission's reaction to this measure, the international provisions and commitments on which comes into force on 1 January 1987? human rights to which Czechoslovakia is a signatory.

In the specific case referred to by the Honourable Member, only two members of the Management Com­ Answer given by Mr Cardoso E Cunha mittee of the Jazz Section of the Czechoslovak on behalf of the Commission Musicians Union are still in prison. (31 March 1987) The trial of some members of the group, which took The question raised by the Honourable Member place on 11 March, culminated in actual or suspended appears to relate to the establishment of Falklands prison sentences, against which both the public pro­ Interim Conservation Zone (FICS). As such an act is secutor and those sentenced appealed. wholly within the competence of national authorities the Commission has no comment to make on it. The trial was held in the presence of Western journal­ ists. Despite entreaties to the Czechoslovak authorities, no member of a Western Embassy was able to attend. No C 226/26 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87

Following the judgment, the Twelve voiced through the Does the Commission attach greater importance to Presidency their strong disapproval of the sentences, at economic and social convergence at Community level the plenary session of the Conference on Security and than to economic and social cohesion at national level? Co-operation in Europe on 20 March 1987 in Vienna. The Twelve are, of course, continuing to follow this affair closely and will certainly remind Czechoslovakia again, if need be, of the commitments it entered into in signing the Helsinki Final Act and under the CSCE Answer given by Mr Varfis process. on behalf of the Commission (') This answer has been provided by the Foreign Ministers (3 April 1987) meeting in political cooperation, within whose province the question came. For the Commission, the strengthening of economic and social cohesion within the Community is indissociable from the efforts undertaken in Member States to close the gap between regions. Both through implementation of common policies and of the internal market and through support operations WRITTEN QUESTION No 2296/86 under the structural Funds, Article 130 B introduced by by Mr Hans Poetschki (PPE — D) the Single Act gives practical shape to the close link that must exist between measures taken by Member to the Commission of the European Communities States and Community measures. (14 January 1987) In the Commission's view, the objective of cohesion (87/C 226/41) will be achieved within the framework of a balanced combination of national and Community measures Subject: Regional disparities and overall economic per­ involving all Member States. formance of the Member States In the Commission's view, how far is the backwardness of the least-developed areas in the Community attribu­ table to differences in the overall performance of the economies of the various Member States and to what extent is it attributable to specific regional factors?

Answer given by Mr Pfeiffer WRITTEN QUESTION No 2337/86 to the Commission of the European Communities by Mr Jose Maria Alvarez de Eulate Penaranda (31 March 1987) (ED —E) Current estimates show that around half of the overall to the Commission of the European Communities regional disparities can be accounted for by differences (14 January 1987) between Member States, and half by differences within (87/C 226/43) Member States. An analysis of this question will be contained in the third periodic Report on the regions of the Community which is expected to be published Subject: High-speed train link between Lisbon and the shortly. French frontier Plans for the European high-speed train network, look forward to a significant improvement in the quality of this type of transport, the social significance of which is doubtless by increasing. It is predicted that this European project will provide many peripheral zones of the European Community, WRITTEN QUESTION No 2299/86 such as Spain, with easier and more rapid rail connec­ tions with the central European markets, with all the by Mr Hans Petschki (PPE — D) advantages for the development of these peripheral to the Commission of the European Communities regions which this implies. (14 January 1986) It is therefore suprising that plans for the future devel­ (87/C 226/42) opment of the European high-speed train network do not include a high-speed rail link between Lisbon and Subject: Regional disparities within and between Mem­ the French frontier, which would bring Portugal nearer ber States to the central European countries. 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/27

Does the Commission consider it possible to remedy Does the Commission agree that it would be a good this inexplicable omission in the above plans? thing to encourage the establishment of such a body to coordinate the activities of the regional development agencies in the various Member States and act as an effective interlocutor in the formulation of Community regional policy?

Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis on behalf of the Commission (1 April 1987) Answer given by Mr Pfeiffer The Commission's technical report entitled 'Towards on behalf of the Commission a European high-speed rail network'^) sets out two schemes for rail networks (for the year 2000 and for (27 March 1987) the longer term), including lines which will probably be upgraded for speeds over 160 Km/h. The Commission is aware of the role played by regional development corporations in most of the Member States The proposed rail network schemes are the outcome of in achieving economic and social progress in the studies carried out in 1985 under the auspices of the regions. It has always been open to dialogue with Commission by a panel of experts on high-speed rail­ regional agencies through bilateral contacts and intends ways. to continue with this approach. Promotion of a body that would coordinate the regional development cor­ The Commission intends to amplify and update the porations in the various Member States could make report so as to take account as well of lines and develop­ for more effective dialogue and collaboration with the ment programmes in the Iberian Peninsula. Commission, there by supporting implementation of Community regional policy. At this stage the Commission is not in a postion to express a view on the routes which may be selected for high-speed rail links from Lisbon. (') Doc. COM(86) 341 final.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2338/86 WRITTEN QUESTION No 2344/86 by Mr Jose Maria Alvarez de Eulate Penaranda by Mr Ferruccio Pisoni (PPE — I) (ED —D) to the Commission of the European Communities to the Commission of the European Communities (20 January 1987) (14 January 1987) (87/C 226/45) (87/C 226/44) Subject: The market in distillate of wine Subject: Coordinating body for regional development Can the Commission say whether, in its reply to Written agencies Question No 703/86 (x) by Mrs Barbara Castle, it took into account or intended to take into account the fol­ Regional development agencies which, in certain Com­ lowing considerations: munity Member States, actively contribute to the econ­ omic expansion of their respective regions are inevitably 1. in the context of the distillation operations decided an essential factor in the context of European Com­ on pursuant to Regulation (EEC) No 337/79 (2), as munity policy designed to achieve economic and social an instrument of Community agricultural products progress at regional level. unless surpluses were used up. In the wine sector, where production is regulated largely by seasonal It would therefore appear desirable for regional devel­ trends, wine spirits are obtained by distilling wine opment agencies to set up a coordinating body both to surpluses which are available at a very low price in facilitate cooperation with the Commission and to draw years of surplus production, except for certain wine up proposals. spirits of designated origin or high quality; No C 226/28 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87

2. this is no longer possible if policy in the wine WRITTEN QUESTION No 2345/86 sector introduces measures to protect wine prices by Mrs Francesca Marinaro and Mr Aldo Bonaccini by means of subsidized distillation; (COM —I) 3. in this event, using the entire production obtained to the Commission of the European Communities from the distillation of surpluses to the market (20 January 1987) to produce fuel for vehicles or heating means eliminating all wine spirits from the market, (87/C 226/46) except the few which have registered designations of origin; Subject: Availability of rooms belonging to the Com­ 4. this is unacceptable, since in order to meet the mission and the criteria governing their use normal needs of the Community's internal mar­ for political meetings ket, these products must contiue to be available, so as not to jeopardize whole sectors (wine spirits without designated origin, dessert wines, bitters 1. Can the Commission confirm that it has changed and other beverages which must be made from its opinion about allowing its buildings to be used for wine spirits); political meetings, in view of the fact that on Thursday, 27 November 1986 a political debate was held in Room 5. it is therefore necessary not only to prevent the S 11 of the Berlaymont building and that this meeting indiscriminate application of the principle of dis­ had been advertised by means of posters and leaflets posing of products obtained from the distillation distributed to officials by Commission staff? by the Community of agricultural surpluses but also to make provision for a balanced review of 2. Can the Commission state what the criteria are? its application to EAGGF products obtained from the compulsory distillation of Community wine. — for allowing rooms belonging to the Commission I1) OJ No C 264, 20. 10. 1986, p. 10. to be used for political meetings? (2) OJNoL54, 5. 3. 1979, p. 1. — for advertising such meetings by means of posters on notice boards and leaflets distributed to all officials?

Answer given by Mr Andriessen Answer given by Mr Christophersen on behalf of the Commission on behalf of the Commission (31 March 1987) (8 April 1987)

1. The Commission has not changed its opinion The mechanisms set up for all Community distillation about allowing its premises to be used for political operations in the wine sector leave distillers free to meetings. dispose of their production as they wish, after receiving the Community aid. 2. The Commission is prepared, when the require­ ments of the service permit, to make its premises avail­ Such production in the form of alcohol or wine spirits, able for meetings which are in line with its general as the distillers decides, is available to supply the normal objectives. outlets for these products.

It may allow meeting rooms to be used by outside The Commission has no intention of doing away with bodies when the subject of the event is of European this possibility, which is limited only by the existing interest. normal outlets. It will ensure that for surplus quantities no disturbance of the market in alcohol and spirituous beverages arises from products offered for sale by the It also permits its own staff or the staff of other insti­ EAGGF and, as far as it is competent, by the agencies tutions to announce such authorized meetings via the which have taken over alcohol under national measures. internal information systems. 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/29

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2346/86 The Commission does not at this stage contemplate by Sir Jack Stewart-Clark (ED — GB) making proposals for withdrawing the right to use his/ her driving licence in the other Member States from a to the Commission of the European Communities driver who commits an offence liable to result in the (20 January 1987) withdrawal of his/her driving licence in one State under (87/C 226/47) this State's laws: any such proposal would presuppose that laws relating to the withdrawal of driving licences following a road traffic offence had been harmonized at Community level. Subject: Banned drivers in the European Community (') OJ No L 375, 31. 12. 1980, p. 1.

What provisions, if any, are there to stop EEC nationals who are banned from driving in their own country from driving in other Community countries? According to information from United Kingdom authorities, an inter­ national driving permit, valid for 12 months, can be used without the production of a national licence. Transport police in other Community countries there­ fore have no way of knowing whether a driver whom they check on their roads has been banned in his own country.

Does the Commission agree that drivers banned from WRITTEN QUESTION No 2354/86 the roads in one country should not be allowed to drive elsewhere in the Community for the period of their by Mr Jaak Vandemeulebroucke (ARC — B) ban? If so, what steps can the Commission propose to to the Commission of the European Communities ensure that driving bans are enforcable throughout the (20 January 1987) Community? (87/C 226/48)

Subject: ESF and SMUs?

Can the Commission provide a list of the projects submitted by SMUs and approved under the ESF in 1985 and 1986, indicating the total amount of support granted to SMUs through such projects and the percent­ Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis age that the total figure represents of the respective ESF on behalf of the Commission grants to SMUs, the amount per project and the names of the beneficiaries. What was the ratio between aid to (20 March 1987) SMUs and total aid to Belgium for these two years?

Council Directive 80/1263/EEC of 4 December 1980 on the introduction of a Community driving licence except where the health of the holder would have led to the rejection of an application for a driving licence or the renewal of one. There is therefore no provision at Community level on the subject of the withdrawal of Answer given by Mr Marin driving licences except as aforesaid. on behalf of the Commission (29 April 1987)

States nevertheless have the option under Article 42 of The amounts approved and budget percentages con­ the Final Act of the United Nations Conference on cerning headings D2 and D3 of the guidelines for the Road Traffic held at Vienna in 1968 of withdrawing the management of the European Social Fund for the years right to use a national driving licence or international 1985 to 1987 (*), and 3.2 and 4.4 of the guidelines for driving permit in their territory from a driver who the management of the Fund for the years 1986 to 2 commits an offence liable to result in the withdrawal 1988 ( ) are as follows: of his/her driving licence under their law. The authority which withdrew the right to use the licence may take For 1985, 61 026 million ECU were approved, repre­ the licence and keep it until the period of withdrawal senting 2.8% of the budget. of the right to use it has expired or the holder leaves its territory, if earlier. The same authority of the with­ For 1986, 88 129 million ECU were approved, repre­ drawal of the right to use the licence. senting 3.4% of the budget. No C 226/30 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87

Aid to SMUs in Belgium amounted to 78 122 ECU in of the programme to complete the internal market. It 1985 and 60 859 ECU in 1986, or 0.08 % and 0.2 % is not, in the meantime, in a position to comment respectively of assistance granted to Belgium. on individual provisions which those proposals may include. It should be pointed out that by far the greates pro­ portion of Social Fund aid is granted to vocational training projects for unemployed persons or schemes to help people find jobs. There is no way of knowing what sort of jobs the people concerned will find. However, given the structure of job creation in the Community, most of the people receiving training find jobs in SMUs. It is this type of undertaking which creates jobs. An exact figure cannot then be put on inderect aid to SMUs in the form of training of the workforce. Fund assistance amounted to 2 209 million ECU in 1985 and 2 554 million ECU in 1986. The lists of beneficiaries requested by the Honourable Member are being sent to him directly as well as to the Secretariat of the European Parliament. WRITTEN QUESTION No 2363/86 (') OJ No C 126, 12. 5. 1984, p. 3. by Mr Jaak Vandemeulebroucke (ARC — B) (2) Decision 85/261/EEC, OJ No L 133, 22. 5. 1985, p. 26. to the Commission of the European Communities (20 January 1987) (87/C 226/50)

Subject: Disaster planning for nuclear accidents

In certain parts of the Community there is a degree of cooperation between Member States as regards nuclear disaster planning, more specifically in the case of WRITTEN QUESTION No 2360/86 nuclear power stations located in border areas. by Mr Jaak Vandemeulebroucke (ARC — B) to the Commission of the European Communities (20 January 1987) Is the Commission in possession of data on transfrontier disaster plans and, if so, can it provide details? (87/C 226/49)

Subject: VAT on books In a number of Member States books are zero-rated, for example in the United Kingdom, Ireland and Portugal. The Commission is naturally expected to put forward Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis proposals to deal with this matter within the framework on behalf of the Commission of its preparations for completion of the internal (4 May 1987) market. Does the Commission intend to do so within the near future? Does the Commission accept the principle of A recent Commission publication deals specifically with zero-ratings for VAT, in view of the importance of this 'Aims and practices of transfrontier emergency plan­ sector for the general development of the people of ning within the European Community countries in case Europe? of an accident in a nuclear installation' (*). The publica- ton also lists bilateral agreements between Community Member States. The Commission is sending it directly to the Honourable Member and to the Parliament Sec­ retariat. Answer given by Mr Lord Cockfield on behalf of the Commission (') Doc. V/2138/86. (30 March 1987)

The Commission will shortly be presenting its proposals on the rates, structure and coverage of VAT, as parts 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/31

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2368/86 The contracts for 1986/1987 were forwarded to by Mr Thomas Megahy (S — GB) the relevant projects in December 1986. to the Commission of the European Communities 2. A detailed answer to this question was given in (20 January 1987) reply to the Honourable Member's Written Ques­ tion No 2331/86 (1). (87/C 226/51) 3. The Commission is aware of the problems of certain non-governmental organizations operating Subject: EC Poverty Programme Contracts and from a modest financial base. It should not be grants forgotten, however, that problems are also caused by delays on the part of national co-funding bodies (central, regional or local authorities, foundations, 1. The need for recipients of grants under the current etc.) making available their share fo the financing. European Poverty Programme to renew their contracts annually makes it difficult to plan in advance. Renewal 4. The Commission has to ensure the proper util­ procedures do not seem to have been clearly explained. ization of the funds made available to the various Can the Commission say when the new contracts will action research projects. This is why each contract be issued? contains a certain number of conditions which those responsible for the projects have undertaken to meet; these conditions are re-stated each time 2. Not only were last year's contracts late in arriving, a contract is renewed. but when they were promptly signed and returned initial payments were not received for up to 3 months. (») OJ No C 171, 29. 6. 1987, p. 17. Can the Commission give any assurance that the prob­ lems that resulted in these delays have now been over­ come?

3. Since Poverty Programme recipients are in the main voluntary bodies and since such bodies are usually relatively small in terms of income and capital and therefore financially fragile would it be possible for the Commission to speed up the payment of grants? WRITTEN QUESTION No 2371/86 4. Will payments after the first year continue to be by Mr Thomas Magahy (S — GB) conditional upon some form of positive assessment? to the Commission of the European Communities

(20 January 1987) (87/C 226/52)

Subject: Trade between Member States and Latin America Answer given by Mr Marin on behalf of the Commission In view of its recently published plan to boost trade (27 April 1987) between Member States and Latin America, does the Commission At a general meeting in February 1986 of those respon­ (a) believe that trade contacts are an appropriate sible for projects under the Community Poverty Pro­ device through which pressure can be brought to gramme all the necessary information concerning the bear on those governements reponsible for exten­ financing of the programme and the financial rules sive human rights violations, applicable, particularly as regards contracts, was pro­ vided in both a general form and in separate bilateral (b) have any plans for putting such a belief into prac­ discussions. tice?

While the programme covers a four-year period the appropriations are subject to annual pro­ cedures. The Commission therefore is obliged to Answer given by Mr Cheysson issue contracts on an annual basis. Insofar as those on behalf of the Commission responsible for the projects know that funding is secure for the duration of the programme pro­ (30 March 1987) vided the conditions of the contract are met, a certain degree of forward planning on their part The Commission accords prime importance to the pro­ would be in order. tection of fundamental rights and itself adheres to this No C 226/32 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87 principle both in the exercise of its functions and in Answer given by Mr Narjes pursuing the objectives of the European Communities. on behalf of the Commission With regard to relations with non-member countries, (3 April 1987) including the countries of Latin America, the Com­ mission is active in seeking to improve the situation of The Commission confirms that a fund intended to cover those countries most in difficulty. all present and future expenditure associated with the The Community, when establishing overall cooperation management of radioactive waste was set up in Spain links, seeks to ensure the existence of an environment by a decree adopted on 12 May 1983, with effect back­ propitious to the promotion of democratic values and dated to 21 January 1983. Since then all electricity respect for fundamental human rights as enshrined in producers in Spain have been required to make pay­ the third Lome Convention and, more recently, in the ments in the fund based on the amount of electricity Cooperation Agreement with the countries of Central they generate. The fund is currently administered by America, which was concluded in Luxembourg in the Empresa Nacional de Residuos Radioactivos November 1985. (ENRESA). The Community follows an essentially positive For any additional information concerning the fund, approach to the extent that one aim of development the Commission suggests that the Honourable Member cooperation policy is to help ensure the fulfilment of the approach the competent Spanish authorities of ENRE­ economic, social and cultural rights of the population SA directly. concerned. However, because of the need to respect the sovereingty of signatory states, the Commission is not prepared to introduce any element of conditionality into its system of cooperation. The Commission would also point out that the bulk of the Community's trade is transacted on the basis of GATT rules.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2380/86 by Mrs Ludivina Garcia Arias (S — E) to the Commission of the European Communities (20 January 1987) (87/C 226/54) WRITTEN QUESTION No 2376/86 by Mrs Undine-Uta Bloch von Blottnitz (ARC — D) Subject: Use of EIB facilities for the countries of Latin to the Commission of the European Communities America (20 January 1987) For what reasons has the possibility of using EIB (87/C 226/53) resources in the countries of South America been ruled out despite the fact that it was proposed in the memor­ Subject: Management of radioactive waste from Spa­ andum on Community development policy of 30 Sep­ nish nuclear power stations tember 1982?

! What type of investment mechanism will be available In its reply to my Written Question No 1419/86, ( ) the for Community development projects in Latin America? Commission states that the costs of storing Spanish nuclear waste are covered by a regular payment into a fund from producers of electricity generated by nuclear power. According to my information, the cost of waste ma­ nagement would already amount to 3.5 billion German marks. Answer given by Mr Cheysson on behalf of the Commission The payments made by nuclear power plant operators, (28 April 1987) which the Commission mentions, have not yet been set aside in a fund according to my information. 1. In present circumstances and in view of its specific Can the Commission confirm the existence of the tasks the EIB operates only within the Community, above-mentioned fund? except for its loans under the financial Protocols to the Cooperation or Association Agreements concluded If so, what is the amount currently available for nuclear with the Mediterranean countries or under the Lome waste management in Spain? Convention. (') OJ No C 315, 8. 12. 1986, p. 10. 2. The Commission has drawn up a series of pro- 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/33

posals for promoting investment in Latin America in Answer given by Mr Natali the following recent communications to the Council: on behalf of the Commission (19 March 1987) — Industrial Cooperation with certain LDCs in Latin America, Asia, the Gulf and the Mediterranean (!); 1. The Commission would refer the Honourable Member to the answer to his Written Question No — The European Community and Latin America (2). 1965/8611).

The main aim is to encourage cooperation through joint 2. Chemical sprays must indeed be used only as a ventures and the introduction of long-term contractual last resort, in view of the potential dangers to the relations, particularly between small and medium-sized environment and those handling the products. Scientific firms in the trade, industrial production, services, tele­ research is being carried out to find alternative methods. communications and research and technology sectors. The following conclusions may be drawn at this stage: (!) Doc. COM(86) 603 final. (2) Doc. COM(86) 720 final. — these methods can be used only in the control of species other than grasshoppers and locusts,

— pesticide powders are the most effective means of control with least risk to the user.

3. The Commission may start up research projects under its future 'Research and development programme in the field of science and technology for development (1987-1990)'(2), which it has presented to the Council for approval, as part of the proposed measures for the protection of harvests and the control of destructive insects. However, it will still be possible to integrate this kind of research into EDF projects to control destructive insects at a later date, if the ACP countries so request and such action is needed.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2388/86 (') OJ No C 177, 6. 7. 1987, p. 5. (2) Doc. COM(86) 550 final/2. by Mr Hemmo Muntingh (S — NL) to the Commission of the European Communities (20 January 1987) (87/C 226/55)

Subject: Ecology and development

European Community support is being given to the FAO programme to combat locust swarms in Africa, WRITTEN QUESTION No 2389/86 which involves the use of pesticides (mainly propoxur and fenitrothion). It is not known precisely what side- by Mr Hemmo Muntingh (S — NL) effects these pesticides are harmful to such ecologically to the Commission of the European Communities important terrestrial species as spiders, beetles, ants and (23 January 1987) termites. (87/C 226/56)

1. Does the Commission therefore agree that such substances should be sprayed only as a last resort? Subject: Ecology and development: Community sup­ port for an anti-locust programme

2. Can the Commission indicate whether in addition to the FAO programme, it is also giving support Community support is being given to various sections to alternative methods and programmes designed of the FAO programme to combat locust swarms in to prevent the formation of such swarms? Africa. According to well-informed sources, in certain areas the safety measures accompanying this pro­ gramme are inadequate. For example in Mali most of 3. (a) If so, what form does such assistance take? the farmers are unaware of and unprotected from the (b) If not, is the Commission prepared to provide risks relating to the use of such substances, which are such assistance in the near future? sprayed either by hand or from aircraft. No C 226/34 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87

1. Can the Commisssion indicate: Community intends to apply strictly the recommen­ dation made at the FAO meeting of 18-19 December 1986 that use of this pesticide should stop as soon as — what safety measures are taken during spraying possible. to prevent the population, livestock and drinking water etc. from being poisoned, (') OJNoC 112,27.4. 1987. (2) OJ No C 177, 6. 7. 1987. — the extent to which local workers and farmers engaged in the programme are informed about the health risks, provided with adequate protec­ tive equipment such as masks, gloves and protec­ WRITTEN QUESTION No 2390/86 tive clothing and trained in using these products by Mr Hemmo Muntingh (S — NL) safely? to the Commission of the European Communities (23 January 1987) 2. Does the Commission consider the measures (87/C 226/57) referred to in its reply to point 1 to be adequate? Subject: Ecology and development: tsetse fly control 3. (a) If so, how does it explain the above report? programme

(b) If not, is the Commission prepared to register A brief report has been published bu two NGOs in a protest with the FAO and to make further Zimbabwe, the Wildlife Society of Zimbabwe and the support for the programme dependent on the Zambezi Society, giving their views on the tsetse fly introduction of guarantees concerning proper control programme in that country. In their report, safety measures? the above organizations allege that the Zimbabwean Department of Veterinary Services ordered 115 tonnes of DDT from Italy and that a further order is likely to be placed in 1987.

1. Has this document been brought to the attention of the Commission?

2. Can the Commission indicate: — whether this report is correct, — whether the DDT is really intended for use Answer given by Mr Natali against the tsetse fly, on behalf of the Commission — whether it considers it necessary to use DDT for (17 March 1987) this purpose?

3. Does the Commission agree that it would be a The Honourable Member should refer to the answers deplorable state of affairs if the Commission agreed given by the Commission to Written Question No 1690/ that DDT should not be supplied for use against the tsetse fly (see answer to Written Questions No 86 (*) from Mr Roelants du Vivier and his own Written l Question No 1965/86. (2) 624/85 and No 731/85 ( ), whereas an individual Member State was supplying this product to a coun­ try participating in a regional tsetse fly control An analysis by international experts of the 1986 cam­ programme, for which the Community is the princi­ paign to combat locusts showed that there was no pal donor? observable contamination in any country of human beings, livestock or other living beings apart from 4. If Zimbabwe has indeed ordered DDT from Italy for insects. Spraying was generally carried out very care­ the purposes of tsetse fly control, is the Commission fully and accidental poisoning prevented by warning prepared to make further aid for this programme people in good time by radio and by using products of dependent on an undertaking by Zimbabwe to cease very low toxicity for mammals. Furthermore, to guard using DDT for this purpose? against accidents, the pesticides given to farmers were in powder form (notably propoxure), not liquid. No (!) OJ No C 263, 14. 10. 1985, p. 39. protection of the skin or the respiratory system is needed when using this non-irritant product. However, Answer given by given by Mr Natali the teams of workers spraying liquid pesticides were to the Commission of the European Communities given special training and adequate equipment (masks, (15 April 1987) gloves, etc. Nevertheless, some shortcomings in the protective measures have been revealed. It is true that farmers in a Sahel country were exposed to HCH, although there were no serious consequences. In view 1. The Commission's attention has been frawn to of the dangers arising from the use of this product, the the article to which the Honourable Member refers. 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/35

2. According to the Zimbabwe Government Gazette Does the Community intend to intensify it cooperation of 27 March 1986, a contract for supply and delivery with the countries of Central and South America of 115 tonnes of DDT for tsetse control operations was through European Investment Bank policies? awarded following public tender to Agricura (pvt) Ltd. of Zimbabwe. The Commission does not know the origin of the DDT suplied by Agricura. It seems likely that the Veterinary Department will use this DDT for Answer given by Mr Cheysson tsetse control, as this Department together with the on behalf of the Commission Ministry of Health are the only ones that are allowed (28 April 1987) to use DDT by Government restricted the use of DDT for malaria and tsetse control only. On 2 December 1986 the Commission proposed to the Although the Commission does not consider that the Council certain guidelines for strengthening cooper­ ation with the countries of Latin America in various use of DDT for tsetse fly control is absolutely necessary, 1 it is difficult to argue at this stage that this practice fields, particularly that of industrial cooperation ( ). should be totally discontinued. Initial discussions have already started. As regards the policy of the European Investment Bank On the one hand, research into the two alternative (EIB), the Honourable Member is asked to refer to the methods of control, to which the Commission has allo­ Commission 's answer to Written Question No 2380/ cated considerable funds, has produced encouraging, 86 (2). but so far limited results : odour-baited targets are still at the trial stage, and aerial spraying with a non-residual t1) Doc. COM(86) 720 final. insecticide is at present only effecive in flat areas. (2) OJ No C 226, 24. 8. 1987.

On the other hand, a recent study carried out by the United Kingdom Overseas Development Adminis­ tration and the Zimbabwe Ministry for Natural Ressources concluded that 'the levels of DDT residues in Zimbabwean wildlife was not sufficiently high to warrant discontinuing the use of DDT on conservation or human safety grounds without further evidence of biological impact'. A study on the biological impact is due to begin in April 1987 and the Commission will monitor the results very closely. WRITTEN QUESTION No 2399/86 by Mr Jose Garcia Raya (S -— E) 3. The Commission is not in a position to deny a Member State the right to sell a product whose utilis­ to the Commission of the European Communities ation is not encouraged by the Commission itself. (23 January 1987) (87/C 226/59) 4. In the light of the previous answers it can be conluded that the Commission feels that it does not Subject: Measures to stimulate private investment in yet have enough alternatives to offer under present Latin America circumstances to persuade Zimbabwe not to use DDT. What incentives can the Community provide with a view to improving the flow of direct private investment towards the Latin American countries?

Answer given by Mr Cheysson on behalf of the Commission (11 March 1987)

Direct foreign investment in Latin America was esti­ mated at United States dollars 90 to 100 billion at the WRITTEN QUESTION No 2398/86 end of 1983, with some United States dollars 20 billion by Mr Jose Garcia Raya (S — E) coming from the Commission. to the Commission of the European Communities The economic crisis which has afflicted Latin America (23 January 1987) since 1982 has considerably reduced the annual flow of investment from the industrialized countries. (87/C 226/58) In addition to endeavouring to strengthen its links Subject: Possible intensification of cooperation with Latin America the Community is also seeking to between the European Community and Latin increase the number of European businesses active there America and to stimulate trade, production and investment. To No C 226/36 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87 that end the Commission has recommended that the Answer given by Mr Delors setting-up of joint ventures should become an important on behalf of the Commission part of EEC-Latin America cooperation and that a great deal more information should be made available to (18 May 1987) European businesses, and in particular to SME. The Commission has further recommended coordinated As it indicated in its answers to Written Questions No acion by Member States to improve the economic, 2351/83 by Togalla (!) and No 1099/84 by Mr Megahy, administrative and legal environment for direct invest­ the Commission considers that in the case of transfers ment and to strenghten regional integration, market relating to tourism and other forms of travel residents enlargement and harmonization of standards. of Member States must in principle be given a guarantee that they can have available the necessary means to meet their expenditure abroad: transfers through credit institutions and other authorized intermediaries; the granting of flat-rate foreign currency allowances on departure, which may be exceeded where evidence is provided and possible retrospective justification given; on-the-spot settlement using suitable means of pay­ ment. This position summarizes the conclusions which the Commission has drawn from the Luisi-Carbone judgment (3). The rules that a traveller requesting (on departure) permission to exceed the basic allowance should pro­ vide initial evidence of the expenditure envisaged is justified as a means of limiting and simplifying retro­ spective checks on such expenditure, particularly in WRITTEN QUESTION No 2406/86 Member States which have not yet fully liberalized by Mr Gijs de Vries (SDR — NL) capital movements. to the Commission of the European Communities (J) OJ No C 328, 10. 12. 1984, p. 1. (2) OJ No C 135, 3. 6. 1985, p. 3. (23 January 1987) (3) Judgment of 31. 1. 1984 in joined Cases No 286/82 and No (87/C 226/60) 26/83.

Subject: Liberalization of capital movements In its judgment in the Luise and Carbone case(1), the Court of Justice ruled that Member States may impose an upper limit on the quantity of bank notes that a resident may export to another Member State without making a declaration. There are two conceivable interpretations of this ruling. (a) If a resident of Member State wants to export more money than the stipulated maximum, he should, on returning to his country of residence, be able to provide evidence of the payments made abroad insofar as they exceed the exchange control limit. WRITTEN QUESTION No 2417/86 (b) If a resident of a Member State wishes to export by Mr Ben Visser (S — NL) more money than the stipulated maximum, before to the Commission of the European Communities leaving the country, he should be able to provide (23 January 1987) evidence of the payments he intends to make abroad (for example by means of a hotel reser­ (87/C 226/61) vation of correspondence with a foreign doctor). Subject: Interpretation of regulations on driving and Does the Commission share my conviction that only rest periods for road transport the first of these interpretations is compatible with the judgment given in the Luisi and Carbone case and the It appears that there are differences of interpretations need to liberalize transfers and payments? Does the with regard to Regulations (EEC) No 3820/85 (*) and Commission realize that if it were to accept the second No 3821/85 (2). The French authorities seem to think interpretation, it would give the Member States carte that proof must be furnished for days that have not blanche to impede free payments and transfers by apply­ been worked, for example in the form of an employer's ing administrative restrictions? declaration, a blank tachograph card, etc. (') Paragraphs 31 and 33-36 of the judgment in the Luisi and The view in the Netherlands is that, on the basis of the Carbone Case, ECR (1984) 377, pp. 406-407 above regulations, no proof is required. 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/37

1. Does the Commission think that, under the above The Commission, therefore, seems to feel that the sale regulations, there is any need to provide the authori­ of homeopathic medicines poses social, economic and ties with proof of days not worked? moral problems? Can it confirm that this is its view? 2. If this is not necessary, is the Commission willing (!) OJ No C 31 of 9. 2. 1987, p. 33. to take the matter up with the French authorities? (!) OJ No L 370, 31. 12. 1985, p. 1. (2) OJ No L 370, 31. 12. 1985, p. 8 Answer given by Mr Marin on behalf of the Commission (20 May 1987)

The effectiveness of a treatment is established by Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis double-blind randomized trials which show that it gives on behalf of the Commission better results than a placebo. This method is used to (27 April 1987) assess medical treatment. Although public interest in alternative medicine is admittedly growing, this interest is not shared by the academic circles indicate that 1. Article 215(7) of Regulation (EEC) No 3821/85 alternative medicine is more effecive than placebos. The specifies that: Commission therefore confirms that it does not intend to study this question, particularly in view of other 'Whenever requested by an authorized inspecting officer priority matters with which it has to cope and the to do so, the driver must be able to produce record budgetary restrictions within which it must work. sheets for the current week, and in any case for the last day of the previous week on which he drove'. The use of such treatment in medical practice and the In the framework of their discretionary powers it is up administration of health care is likely to raise problems to the Member States whether or not they require of an economic nature which jeopardize certain social proof in relation to relatively long periods not worked security provisions. The cost of illness in the Member (holidays, sickness or other for which record sheets States is covered by social security, i.e. by the general cannot be presented. public, which is entitled to demand that treatment paid 2. In any case, the Commission seeks to ensure uni­ for by the social security system is generally recognized form application of these Regulations as far as possible. as effective.

Such treatment also raises ethical problems in regard to professional relations which in the case of doctors come under professional associations and medical boards in each Member State.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2430/86 by Mrs Marie-Noelle Lienemann (S — F) to the Commission of the European Communities (23 January 1987) WRITTEN QUESTION No 2443/86 (87/C 226/62) by Mr Ray MacSharry (RDE — IRL) Subject: Alternative medicine to the Commission of the European Communities (26 January 1987) In its reply to Written Question No 1062/86 (2), the Commission states that it does not intend to carry out (87/C 226/63) a study into alternative medecine because it is not supported by experimental evidence comparable to that Subject: Generalized scheme of preferences justifiably demanded of medical treatments. In the light of this, could the Commission say how In December 1985, the Council adopted the Com­ the findings of serious studies might be obtained to munity's Generalized Scheme of Preferences for 1986. demonstrate its effectiveness? In implementing the Scheme for 1986, the Commission No C 226/38 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87 stated that its aim was to achieve a certain differen­ In December 1984, the Commission adopted a regu­ tiation in a gradual and progressive manner in favour lation to encourage programmes to prospect for the of less developed countries. Member States' non-energy generating mineral resources. Is the Commission satisfied that the operation of the Can the Commission state the level of progress to date, Generalized Scheme of Preferences to date has achieved the number of projects involved and the location of this aim? these projects?

Answer given by Mr Cheysson Answer given by Mr Narjes on behalf of the Commission on behalfof the Commission (30 March 1987) (29 April 1987)

The Community, on the basis of proposals form the The text of the Regulation on loans for projects covered Commission, began in its GSP scheme for 1986 to by exploration programmes for non-energy raw introduce a sharper graduation of beneficiary countries materials within the territories of the Member States which reached a certain competitiveness for one or was approved by the Council on 17 December 1984, some single products for which this country has taken but the decision on the budget was postponed. more than 20 % of the extra-EC trade. At the meeting of the Council for Industry in March On the other hand, this reduction of quotas applied to 1986, the Council was unable to reach agreement and the product/country groups concerned, which leads a viewpoint was expressed which considered the explo­ sometimes event to an exclusion, has allowed bigger ration activity as a second priority for the Community, shares of the preferential offer to be granted to the less taking into account the present state of commodity competitive countries. Thus, already in the year of the markets and the budgetary constraints. new orientation with only a 50% quota cut for come In the present state of Community law, the Commission products/countries, decided by the Council, the quotas is not authorized to implement this Regulation without for two products have been replaced by ceilings for the agreement of the Council. interested beneficiaries such as India, Pakistan, Malay­ sia and Uruguay and, for numerous products, the vol­ However, the Commission is convinced of the useful­ umes fo ceilings have been increased considerably. ness of this scheme and pursues its endeavours with a view to ensure its launching as soon as possible. As far as the Least Developed Countries, as defined by the UN, are concerned, the Commission has to state that its aim has been fully achieved since 1983 in granting preferential duty-free entry without preferential limits for all otherwise dutiable imports from these countries, with the exception of some few products in the agricul­ tural sector.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2448/86 by Mr Ray MacSharry (RDE — IRL) to the Commission of the European Communities WRITTEN QUESTION No 2446/86 (26 January 1987) by Mr Ray MacSharry (RDE — IRL) (87/C 226/65) to the Commission of the European Communities Subject: Measures to promote the economic develop­ (26 January 1987) ment of the border regions of Northern Ireland (87/C 226/64) and the Republic of Ireland

Subject: Community's non-energy producing minerals Can the Commission state the progress to date of for industry Community measures to promote small and medium- sized enterprises and energy projects in the border areas of Ireland and Northern Ireland? The EEC imports approximately 75% of its require­ ments of non-energy producing minerals for its indus­ Is the Commission satisfied with the level of progress tries. to date, and have they any futher proposals in mind? 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/39

Answer given by Mr Pfeiffer Under the Community Energy Demonstration Pro­ on behalf of the Commission gramme (EEC Teg. 3640/85) 4 hydro projects are being (19 May 1987) supported financially : 3 of them south of the border and one in Northern Ireland.

The Commission can assure the Honourable Member Finally, in December 1986, the Commission approved that it attaches great importance to measures for pro­ a national programme of Community interest under 5 moting the development of small and medium-sized Council Regulation 1787/84 ( ) aimed at the encourage­ enterprises (SMEs) within the Community . ment of business development and the promotion of managerial expertise of SMEs in Northern Ireland. This programme covers the period 1986-1988.

Within the non-quota section of the European Regional (') Council Regulation (EEC) No 2619/80 — OJ No L 271, 15. 10. 1980. Development Fund, a specific Community regional 2 development measure was adopted by the Council^), ( ) OJ No L 350, 27. 12. 1985. (3) Council Regulation (EEC) No 219/84 — OJ No L 27, with a view to the improvement of the economic and 31. 1. 1984. social situation of the vorder areas fo Ireland and (4) OJ No L 305, 31. 10. 1986. Northern Ireland. Special programmes for (5) OJ No L 169, 28. 6. 1984. implementing this measure, covering the period up to December 1985, were approved by the Commission for Ireland and Northern Ireland. These special pro­ grammes concentrated on the improvement of the tour­ ism infrastructure and on the stimulation of the devel­ opment of SMEs in the eligible areas. The Commission considered the results of these programmes as very satisfactory and it therefore proposed a continuation of the special measure until February 1991 : its proposal was approved by the Council in Regulation (EEC) No 3637/85 (2). The Regulation requires the two Member States concerned to adapt the originally approved WRITTEN QUESTION No 2456/86 special programmes. The United Kingdom authorities by Mrs Eileen Lemass (RDE — IRL) have submitted such an adapted programme, which has to the Commission of the European Communities been approved by the Commission. Under this adopted special programme, a considerable part of the available (26 January 1987) resources is allocated to measures to promote SMEs in (87/C 226/66) the border areas of Northern Ireland.

Subject: Nuclear accidents

The Irish authorities have not yet submitted the adapted Can the Commission provide details of the number special programme for the Irish border areas. of accidents recorded at nuclear installations in the European Community — by Member State — since January 1980? Furthermore, the border areas of Northern Ireland and some of the border areas of Ireland (Donegal, North- West) are covered by the specific Community regional development measure contributing to overcoming con­ straints on the development of new economic activities Answer given by Mr Narjes in certain zones adversely affected by the restructuring on behalfof the Commission of the textile and clothing industry (3). The Regulation provides for several measures to promote and assist (1 April 1987) SMEs. Since 1980, the Commission has not been notified of any accident as provided for in Article 45 of Directive 80/836/Euratom of 15 July 1980 laying down the basic Both Ireland and Northern Ireland are eligible for ERDF safety standards for the health protection of the general aid under Council Regulation (EEC) No 3301/86(4) public and workers against the dangers of ionizing instituting a Community programme for the develop­ radiation {l), as amended by Directive 84/467/Euratom ment of certain less-favoured regions of the Community of 3 September 1984 (2). It is only this type of accident by exploiting endogenous energy potential (Valoren) which must be reported to the Commission. and also under Council Regulation (EEC) No 3300/ 86 (4) instituting a Community programme for the development of certain less-favoured regions of the At national level, there are regulations which oblige Community by improving access to advance telecom­ operators to report to the competent authorities not munications services (STAR). Intervention programmes only accidents by also incidents, even of minor import­ are now being prepared by the competent authorities. ance, which fall into pre-established categories. The No C 226/40 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87 most significant of these incidents are reported on a A simple extrapolation of this figure cannot be made voluntary basis by the Member States under the IRS because of possible future changes in attitudes of those (Incident Report System) of the OECD Nuclear Energy concerned towards the labour market but it should Agency. remain of the same order of magnitude.

(!) OJ No L 246, 17. 9. 1980. (2) OJ No L 265, 5. 10. 1984.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2465/86 WRITTEN QUESTION No 2459/86 by Mrs Anne-Marie Lizin (S — B) by Mr Gene Fitzgerald (RDE — IRL) to the Commission of the European Communities to the Commission of the European Communities (26 January 1987) (26 January 1987) (87/C 226/68) (87/C 226/67)

Subject: School-leavers Subject: Belgian financial aid for mines in Limbourg

In September 1986, the number of persons registered as unemployed in the EEC totalled 15.8 million, which Has the Commission been informed of the position represents an increase of 179 000 (+ 1 %) over August. taken by the Belgian Government in the so-called 'New The main reason given by the EEC Statistical Office Year's Eve Agreement' regarding special aid for the for this rise is the entry of a large number of school mines in Limbourg? leavers into the labour market. Does it consider this aid to be compatible with the EEC 1. Can the Commission indicate for each of the Mem­ Treaty? ber States the number of school leavers registered as unemployed at the end of September 1986 compared with 1984 and 1985?

2. Can the Commission also indicate the anticipated Answer given by Mr Mosar number of school leavers for the years 1987 to 1990 on behalf of the Commission in each of the Member States? (28 April 1987)

The Commission has been informed by the Belgian Answer given by Mr Pfeiffer Government of the intentions and objectives of the on behalf of the Commission recently-announced restructuring of the Campine coal­ field. (19 May 1987)

The Commission is at present analysing the additional Statistics on the registered unemployed do not include aid measures and amendments to existing aid measures figures on school-leavers because the Member States which the Belgian Government proposes taking in 1987 of the Community (with the exception of the United in the context of this restucturing programme. Kingdom) do not provide a systematic breakdown of the persons registered in labour offices by this charac­ teristic. In accordance with Article 10 of Commission Decision No 2064/86/ESCS fo 30 June 1986 establishing Com­ 1 However some indication of the number of school- munity rules for State aid to the coal industry ( ), the leavers is provided by increases in the number of young Commission will decide whether this aid complies with unemployed under the age of 25. In general the number the criteria and objectives set out in Articles 2-8 of that of young unemployed rises in the school-leaving period Decision. reaching at the end of September, after the Summer break and possible waiting periods, its highest level. (') OJ No L 177, 1. 7. 1986. The Statistical Office estimates the number of school- leavers in 1986 for the whole of the Community at around 5 million. 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/41

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2484/86 WRITTEN QUESTION No 2487/86 by Mr Stephen Hughes (S — GB) by Mr Ernest Glinne (S — B) to the Commission of the European Communities to the Commission of the European Communities (26 January 1987) (26 January 1987) (87/C 226/69) (87/C 226/70)

Subject: The European Community's contribution to Subject: Comparison of wages paid to nurses through­ the International Development Association's out the Community African programmes In theory, the poorest of the developing countries are Can the Commission provide details of pay and wage eligible to receive loans at very low interest rates from levels for nursing and medical staff in the various Mem­ the World Bank, the International Development Associ­ ber States of the European Community together with ation having sponsored the scheme since the early 1960s. any pertinent employment conditions? It would appear that the United States Administration has reversed its position of the last few years and has asked Congress to vote a larger contribution (United States dollars 4 billion each year for the next three years) to the IDA, whose future programme will fociis much more attention on sub-Saharan Africa. Answer given by Mr Marin Will the Commission state whether this rumour is well- on behalf of the Commission founded and indicate the Community's current position (18 May 1987) on these matters?

In order to facilitate as much as possible the free move­ ment of nurses within the Community, the Council has Answer given by Mr Natali adopted a number of directives (!) aimed at the mutual on behalf of the Commission recognition of diplomas, certificates and other evidence (12 March 1986) of formal qualifications of nurses responsible for gen­ eral care. The eighth replenishment of the resources of the Inter­ national Development Association (IDA), amounting Wide disparities, however, remain within the Com­ to 11.5 billion United States dollars, has now been munity regarding the terms of employement of members approved. Additional voluntary contributions from cer­ of the profession. Levels of pay, for instance, vary tain countries, including several Member States, will considerably from one country to another. They are bring the total of resources available for the period determined by, among other factors, the degree of from July 1987 to June 1990 to 12.4 billion United organization and the conditions on the labour market States dollars. in each area. The United States is providing 25% of the basic amount, i.e. 2.875 billion United States dollars, with no volun­ Wage structures, for instance, vary throughout Europe: tary contributions. The Commission has no infor­ the cost of labour varies form one (in Portugal) to six mation confirming that the United States intends to do (in the Federal Republic of Germany). more in future. The draft budget for fiscal 1988 in the United States (beginning on 1 October 1987), which was introduced Although the Commission does not have the necessary in Congress by the Administration in January, includes information regarding wages by profession, one can only the first instalment (a third, i.e. 958.333 United reasonably assume that the situation of wage earners States dollars) of the United States' contribution to the in general probably also applies at the level of individual IDA. professions.

The completion of the internal market, which will eventually create a single Community labour market, will contribute to a convergence of levels of pay for identical or similar activities. WRITTEN QUESTION No 2489/86 0) Council Directives 77/452/EEC — OJ No L 176, 15. 7. 1977, by Mr Vincenzo Mattina (S — I) p. 1. and 81/1057/EEC — OJ No L 385, 31. 12. 1981, p. 25. to the Commission of the European Communities (29 January 1987) (87/C 226/71)

Subject: Food aid No C 226/42 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87

Given, firstly, the budget appropriation entered for question of a 'social clause' for the textile and clothing food aid for 1986, which amounts to 35.7 million ECU industries in the context of the above trade nego­ and, secondly, the agricultural products selected for tiations? food aid (mainly cereals and milk powder), can the Commission explain the technical reasons why Mediter­ ranean agricultural products almost always account for Answer given by Mr De Clercq a very low percentage of the food aid package? on behalf of the Commission (4 May 1987)

The Commission has already informed Parliament in its detailed reply to Written Question No 1702/86 by Mrs Le Roux(1) that the community, together with Answer given by Mr Natali other industrialised countries, during the GATT Mini­ on behalf of the Commission sterial Meeting at Punta des Este, which officially laun­ (2 April 1987) ched the New Round, mooted the idea of including among the declared negotiating objectives the improve­ ment of the standard of living of the participating A total of some 562 million ECU was entered in chapter countries. This proposal met with a flat refusal from 92 of the budget for food aid in 1986. It is the budgetary most of the developing country participants, who con­ authority, acting on the basis of a Commission pro­ sider it a ploy used by the industrial world in order to posal, which takes the decisions on the breakdown maintain restrictions on trade. The Ministerial Declar­ of that appropriation between the different types of ation contains no explicit reference to social objectives. foodstuff. The Commission does not therefore intend to present formal end explicit proposals in theis respect in any of Products supplied as food aid are chosen in accordance the individual negotiating groups, including that for not only with the recipients' requests and dietary habits, textiles and clothing. but also with consideration of cost-effectiveness in mind. (•) OJ No C 82, 30. 03. 1987.

Next in order come mild products, though the quanti­ ties supplied are smaller. Budget appropriations have also been used to supply vegetable oil (rape oil, olive oil, palm oil, sunflower seed oil etc.) and other products including pulses (beans and lentils), fish, preserved tom­ atoes and other prepared foodstuffs.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2513/86 However, only 18.7 million ECU is earmarked for these miscellaneous products, since they are not bulk food­ by Mr Jose Happart (S — B) stuffs, are not requested in large quantities by the to the Commission of the European Communities recipients and have a relatively low cost-effectiveness (29 January 1987) ratio. (87/C 226/73)

Subject: Housing policy

Can the Commission say whether any pilot projects exist for the financing and replacement of subsidized housing? If so, which funds ar involved in financing such oper­ ations? If not, does the Commission intend to take any action in this field?

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2498/86 Answer given by Mr Marin by Mr Thomas Megahy (S — GB) on behalf of the Commission to the Commission of the European Communities (1 April 1987) (29 January 1987) (87/C 226/72) The Commission does not have a housing policy as such. However, there are certain Community activities Subject: GATT multi-trade negotiations in the field of subsidized housing which are connected with its social policy in favour of certain groups, such What proposals does the Commission have to raise the as: 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/43

low interest housing loans for ECSC workers; WRITTEN QUESTION No 2517/86 subsidies under budget item 6451 for pilot projects by Mr Gijs de Vries (SDR — NL) aimed at improving housing conditions for handi­ to the Commission of the European Communities capped persons and migrant workers. (29 January 1987) (87/C 226/75)

Subject: Compatibility of home computers

In answer to Written Question No 2960/85 (x), the Commission stated that it would make a study of the problems experienced by European consumers in programming their home computers. What have been the findings and what action has the Commission taken as a result?

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2516/86 OJ No 299, 24. 11. 1986, p. 26. by Mr Ernest Glinne (S — B) to the Commission of the European Communities (29 January 1987) Answer given by Mr Narjes (87/C 226/74) on behalf of the Commission

Subject: Allocation by the Commission of the funds (27 March 1987) earmarked for youth projects and initiatives in 1986 In response to Written Question No 2960/85 by In 1986, the Commission earmarked 500 000 ECU (22 Mr Schmid concerning the problems faced by the Euro­ million Belgian francs) for youth projects and initiat­ pean user in the area of home computers, the Com­ ives. mission has undertaken a study to examine the home and microcomputer business and to recommend appro­ 1. How was this budget broken down by Member priate European action, particularly in the area of stan­ State? dards.

2. Which projects were selected? The study began in January 1986 and the final report should be available soon. 3. In which regions of Belgium were the projects sub­ The Commission will advise Parliament as to the action mitted by Belgium located — Flanders, Wallonia which it proposes to initiate, after consulting the rel­ and Brussels, and what was the location for the evant industrial and user interests. projects approved?

Answer given by Mr Marin on behalf of the Commission WRITTEN QUESTION No 2525/86 (29 April 1987) by Mr Manuel Medina Ortega (S — E) to the Commission of the European Communities The Commission is forwarding to the Honourable (29 January 1987) Member and to the Secretariat of the European Parlia­ (87/C 226/76) ment the following documents which it has just publi­ shed: Subject: Spanish interpretation facilities at meetings — a list of projects receiving assistance in 1986; organized by the Commission

— a list of these projects by subjects; At certain meetings organized by the Commission, no — the first activity report on 'Projects and initiatives Spanish interpretation facilities exist, so that the Spa­ on behalf of young people'. niards present have to speak in a language meetings of agricultural organizations, such as COPA. Could the Commission give the reasons for this dis­ crimination and, in any case, state what measures it intends to take to put an end to it? No C 226/44 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87

Answer given by Mr Delors population is under threat because of trade in these on behalf of the Commission animals? What action does the Commission propose to (29 April 1987) take to persuade the Spanish Government to honour its commitments under CITES to stop the import of wild chimpanzees for use as tourist attractions on Spa­ It is true that it has not been possible to provide nish beaches? interpretation for the nine offical languages at some of the meetings organized by the Commission. However, in the case of the agricultural organizations referred to by the Honourable Member, the Joint Interpreting and Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis Conference Service has provided Spanish interpretation on behalf of the Commission at 13 of the 22 meetings organized with COPA over the (5 May 1987) past twelve months either through the Economic and Social Committee or the Commission. The Commission is indeed aware of the" status of This situation stems form the serious shortage of quali­ Africa's chimpanzee populations and of the fact that fied interpreters for Spanish, which has been an official trade constitutes a threat to their survival. language only since 1 January 1986. In an attempt As the species is listed in Appendix I to the convention to remedy this problem, the Commission has done a on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), considerable amount on the training front, starting well imports into the Community for primarily commercial in advance of the last enlargement. purposes and the sale, keeping for sale, offering for sale or transporting for sale are prohibited under Council In particular, it has: Regulation (EEC) No 3626/82 on the implementation of CITES in the Community {l). Imports of live chim­ — organized accelerated training courses in collabor­ panzees for use as tourist attractions by beach pho­ ation with the Foreign Ministry and the Diplomatic tographers would therefore clearly be in contravention School in Madrid; of the Regulation concerned.

— awarded study grants to established interpreters to However, for specimens imported into the Community enable them to add Spanish to their complement of before 1 January 1984 and into Spain before its working languages; accession to the Community, as well as for specimens that were bred in captivity, Member States may grant — organized open competitions for the recruitment of exemptions from the prohibitions with regard to their Spanish interpreters; use for commercial purposes.

— selected and fed into the SAFIR computer file the As legal imports for the purpose concerned are not names of competent freelance Spanish interpreters. allowed, the chimpanzees currently being used on Spa­ nish beaches should either be pre-Convention or cap­ These measures are gradually yielding results. How­ tive-bred specimens or were imported illegally. In the ever, a certain transitional period is necessary, as was latter case they should by confiscated by the competent indeed the case on the occasion of previous enlarge­ Spanish authorities. ments, even for a language as widely spoken as English. The Commission is already aware of the issue raised by the Honourable Member and has written to the Spanish authorities asking for their observations.

(') OJ No L 384 of 31. 12. 1982, p. 1.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2526/86 by Mr Kenneth Collins (S — GB) to the Commission of the European Communities (29 January 1987) WRITTEN QUESTION No 2559/86 (87/C 226/77) by Mr Giovanni Papapietro (COM — I) to the Commission of the European Communities Subject: Trade in wild chimpanzees (20 February 1987) Is the Commission aware that the number of chimpan­ (87/C 226/78) zees in Africa is now not more than between 50 000 and 100 000 and are they aware that the chimpanzee Subject: The European School in Varese 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/45

Will the Commission say why no arrangements have rity proposal to cut the number of air traffic controllers been made to provide the new school in Trebbia, 20 km in the United Kingdom by 14% ? from Varese, with all the basic facilities, with particular reference to transport, which at the moment it is left Bearing in mind the number of near misses already totally up to the families to organize and finance? occurring over the major airports in the United Kingdom and the 12% rise in the volume of air traffic Does the Commission not consider that, as in the case in Britain's skies, will the Commission urge the British of the transfer of the first form of the primary school, Government to veto the decision by their Civil Aviation decisions should be taken on the basis of full consul­ Authority? tation involving both pupils and parents, particularly where they are directly concerned? Does the Commission not think it advisable, and necess­ ary, for the European School in Varese to be run accord­ Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis ing to broader, more precise precepts of represen­ on behalf of the Commission tativeness, given the complete lack of communication (21 May 1987) between representatives of the parents, teachers and pupils which is at the origin of disorders such as the extremely serious disruption at the European School in The Honourable Member will understand that the Trebbia? Commission's competence in this field is limited. Never­ theless, the Commission has raised the issue mentioned by the Honourable Member with the relevant authori­ ties and will write to him directly on the basis of their reply. Answer given by Mr Christophersen on behalf of the Commission (30 April 1987)

The school at Trebbia which has been in operation for 12 years and is situates 15 km away from Varese has all the facilities it needs; school transport is the parents' responsibility in accordance with a Board of Governors' decision applicable to all the European Schools. The transfer of the primary classes to Trebbia was WRITTEN QUESTION No 2570/86 decided in agreement with the Board of Inspectors and by Mr Jaak Vandemeulebroucke (ARC — B) the Administrative Board on which both teachers and pupils' parents sit. to the Commission of the European Communities (2 February 1987) As at the other European Schools, parents, teachers and pupils of the Varese School are involved in decisions in (87/C 226/80) areas of concern to them. The relevant procedures laid down for this purpose allow each of the groups Subject: Integrated action programme for the West­ concerned to express its point fo view. hoek

It has come to my attention that there is a proposal for an integrated action programme for the Westhoek before the Commission for consideration. I should be very pleased to know what progress has been made in discussing this proposal and would particularly like to know whether the Commission intends to approve this action programme in the near future.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2563/86 by Mr Barry Seal (S — GB) Answer given by Mr Varfis on behalf of the Commission to the Commission of the European Communities (24 March 1987) (2 February 1987)

(87/C 226/79) The Commission has not yet completed its examination of the proposed intergrated development programme Subject: Air transport for the Westhoek region. A formal grant application in respect of this proposed programme was submitted by In view of the fact that Article 52 of the Treaty applies the Belgian authorities last year. fully to air transport and the Council confirmation of the need for a coherent air transport system, is the It is being examined in close collaboration with Commisssion aware of the Britsh Civil Aviation Autho­ national, regional and local authorities. No C 226/46 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87

It is too early to state precisely when the Community's alcoholic beverages in 1988. The draft reform examination of the programme will be concluded and announced by the Japanese Government at the end of what position it will adopt in the matter. December 1986 would still discriminate against import­ ed spirits, especially whisky and cognac, which would continue to be subject to very high excise duties (1 636 yen per litre for whisky and cognac, as opposed to 244 yen for the rival Japanese products). Moreover, the Japanese tariff will still favour imports of wine in bulk, originating, for the most part, in non-European countries, as opposed to imports of wine in bottle.

European alcoholic beverages will only capture a fair WRITTEN QUESTION No 2573/86 share of the Japanese market when the various remain­ by Mr Luc Beyer de Ryke (LDR — B) ing obstacles in the fields of duties, taxation, labelling and distribution have been abolished. For this resaon to the Commission of the European Communities the Commission is pursuing its action against Japan (2 February 1987) under the GATT concerning tax discrimination against (87/C 226/81) imported spirits and the labelling practices for alcoholic beverages in Japan. Subject: Japan-EEC — Lower customs duty on alcohol

The Japanese Minister of Finance has put forward a plan under which customs duty on imported alcoholic beverages would be uniformly reduced by 50%. The market is of particular interest to European countries that produce wine, spirits and alcohol.

Can the Commission say what impact it thinks this Japanese Government measure will have on exports of wine, spirits and alcohol from producer Member countries in terms of market share and earnings? WRITTEN QUESTION No 2586/86 by Mr Andre Fourcans (LDR — F) to the Commission of the European Communities (2 February 1987) (87/C 226/82) Answer given by Mr De Clercq on behalf of the Commission Subject: Situation of 'Europa TV (17 March 1987)

The European satellite television company Europa TV The Japanese Government has put proposals to the is currently in serious financial difficulties, despite a Diet for a reduction of around 30% in customs duties sizeable subsidy form the European Communities. for wines and spirits (except wine imported in bulk and beer), to take effect from 1 April 1987. There will apparently be an even greater reduction in duties for What is the situation in this company, especially in musts and 'wine coolers'. financial terms?

The reduction in Japanese duties would slightly reduce How does the Commission propose to end the suspen­ the cost of Community products in Japan. Thus, the sion of broadcasting and associate a greater number of average CIF duty for wines in bottle would be cut from Member States in the company's development? 188 yen per litre in 1985 to 131 yen per litre from 1 April 1987; for whisky in bottle duty per litre would fall from 246.40 yen to 172.50, and for brandy in bottle from 325.60 to 227.90 yen.

Note, however, that in spite of this reduction in duties, the level of Japanese tariff for wines and spirits will Answer given by Mr Ripa di Meana still be much higher than that in force in the Community on behalf of the Commission or the United States of America. (28 April 1987)

The impact of the proposed reductions in terms of When Europa TV went off the air, a development market share and earnings cannot be properly assessed. which the Commission regretted and following which The tariff cuts will be accompanied by a tax reform for it reserved the right to take legal action to have its 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/47

subsidy refunded the Pan European Satellite Broadcast­ This Directive, in force since February 1977, provides ing Consortium started to look for ways to enable the that any employer 'contemplating' collective redun­ company to resume broadcasting. dancies

(a) shall consult the workers' representatives 'with a The rescue attempt conducted under the aegis of the view to reaching an agreement'. These consul­ EBU, is still in progress on the basis of various projects tations shall, at least cover ways and means of and forms of participation designed notably to finance avoiding collective redundancies or reducing the the company's operations until such time as it can number of workers affected, and mitigating the become economically self-sufficient. consequences;

At this stage, the Commission feels that it is better to (b) provision is also made for workers to be informed await the outcome of the current consultations than to since the Directive makes it compulsory for intervene directly. employers to 'give in writing the reasons for the redundancies, the number of workers to be made redundant, the number of workers normally employed and the period over which the redun­ dancies are to be effected';

(c) the competent public authority must be notified and 'redudancies ...shall take effect not earlier than 30 days after the notification...' 'The period (of 30 days) shall be used by the competent public authority to seek solutions in the WRITTEN QUESTION No 2594/86 problems raised by the projected collective redun­ by Mr Kenneth Collins (S — GB) dancies'. The Vredeling Directive is as yet still before the to the Commission of the European Communities Council. The Commission would like to cite in (6 February 1987) thies connection Mr Narjes' statement made to 2 (87/C 226/83) Parliament on 11 September 1986 ( ). (') OJ No L 48, 22. 2. 1975, p. 29. Subject: Worker consultation (2) Debates of the European Parliament No 2 — 342 (September 1986). Is the Commission aware of the social and economic devastation caused by the decision of the Caterpillar Tractor Company to close their plant in Lanarkshire, an area of already high unemployment, with the con- siquent direct loss of 1 220 jobs, without consultation with the workforce? Is the Commission aware that in September 1986 the same company announced to the workforce their plans for 2 million Pound sterlings of investment, thereby apparently guaranteeing the future of the plant well into the 1990s?

In the light of this blatant disregard for good labour WRITTEN QUESTION No 2600/36 relations and the social and economic consequences of by Mr Alfons Boesmans (S — B) their actions by this American multinational company, will the Commission now agree that it is time to revive to the Commission of the European Communities the ideas contained in the 'Vredeling Directive' and to (6 February 1987) try to achieve a more harmonious relationship between (87/C 226/84) workers and management in such companies within the European Community? Subject: Political prisoners in Pakistan

My Oral Question No H-514/86 failed to elicit a satis­ factory response. Can the Commission therefore now say, after representations have been made to the Pakis­ Answer given by Mr Marin tani authorities, how many of the 69 prisoners listed in on behalf of the Commission the Amnesty International 1985 Report have been: (5 May 1987) (a) released,

National provisions implementing Council Directive (b) granted a new trial before a civil court, and 75/129/EEC(1) relating to collective redundancies must be observed in the event of any such redundancy. (c) denied a retrial? No C 226/48 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87

Can it also give the names of the individuals in each the environment should have been applied in Spain case? since 1 January 1986.

(') Debates of the European Parliament No 2-346 (December 1986). The Commission is determined to see that they are applied in full and effectively. With this in view it has already approached the Spanish authorities on several occasions in order to obtain the legal texts incorpo­ rating Community legal instruments in Spain. Answer given by Mr Cheysson on behalf of the Commission Where necessary the Commission will not have hesi­ (28 April 1987) tation in using its powers under Article 169 of the EEC Treaty. The Commission continues to follow closely the human rights situation in Pakistan. 3. The Commission is not yet in a position to answer However, the Commission is unable to provide the the Honorable Member's question because it is not yet specific information requested by the Honourable in possession of all the national and regional legal Member. provisions, and of information on the enforcement of environment-related provisions by the local, regional and central authorities, and their observance by econ­ omic operators and the public.

OJNoL302, 15. 11. 1985.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2604/86 by Mr Francois Roelants du Vivier (ARC — B) to the Commission of the European Communities (6 February 1987) (87/C 226/85)

Subject: Compliance with environment directives in Spain WRITTEN QUESTION No 2612/86 In an interview published in El Pais on 16 October 1986, the new head of the Spanish Directorate-General by Mr Madron Seligman (ED — B) for the Environment said that in his view the implemen­ to the Commission of the European Communities tation of the EEC's directives on the environment would (6 Februari 1987) be impossible in Spain or could be achieved only at unacceptable economic cost. (87/C 226/86)

1. Does the Commission intend to remain silent in the face of such declarations? Subject: Pollutant properties of coal mined in different states 2. What does it intend to do in order to ensure that EEC directives on the environment are complied with in Spain? In view of the need to promote the share of solid fuels in the Community's energy consumption while 3. Which are the directives on the environment which combating air pollution from sulphurous emissions, it considers are not yet being applied in Spain? will the Commission tabulate the mean sulphur content values for coal from the following sources: — United Kingdom, — Federal Republic of Germany, Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis — France, on behalf of the Commission — Belgium, (1 April 1987) — United States of America 1. The Commission would again point out that it is — Colombia, not in the habit of expressing opinions on press articles. — Poland, 2. Under the Act of Accession of Spain and Portu­ — Australia, gal^) Community Directives in force with regard to — Republic of South Africa? 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/49

Answer given by Mr Mosar Many farmers' associations have complained that on behalf of the Commission Member States discontinue or delay payment of export (10 April 1987) refunds, thus creating extra costs and difficulties in sectors which face heavy competition from the United States of America and other exporting countries. The mean sulphur content of coals from the coutries listed in the Honourable Member's question are as follows (*): Is the Commission aware of this state of affairs?

United Kingdom 0.8 - 2.7 % Can it state how long it really takes the States to pay? Federal Republic of Germany 0.8 - 1.0 % France 0.7 - 0.8 % (but 4.4 % for coal What measures does it intend to take to put an end to from Pro- this situation, which jeopardizes the interests of many vence) farmers? Belgium 0.7 - 1.2 % United States of America 1.0 % Colombia 0.6% Poland 1.0 % Australia 0.6 - 0.7 % Answer given by Mr Andriessen Republic of South Africa Less than 1 % on behalf of the Commission (9 april 1987) The figures for Community countries apply mainly to washed coals: there is generally little scope for improve­ In the present situation, the older Member States pay ment by further cleaning. Figures for other countries refunds to exporters within two to eight weeks on relate to coals available on the world market and there average. Such delays may possibly be slightly longer may be variations within individual countries (the over­ where there are budgetary difficulties in the Com­ all range in the United States of America, for example, munity. is certainly at least as great as in France). The Commission has no definite information as yet The sulphur that can, to a greater or lesser extent, be regarding Spain and Portugal. removed from coal by conventional washing is present in the form of iron pyrites. However, some sulphur (about 50 % of the total amount for most European In view of the above, the Commission does not consider coals) is organically bound to the coal and cannot be that any special measures are required. removed by washing. Up to now, no economic, or even practical, method is available for removing this material.

Coal gasification could offer a means of using solid fuels with almost complete elimination of sulphur.

(*) For Spain the figures are not as favourable as for the Com­ munity countries listed above.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2620/86 by Mr Francois Roelants du Vivier (ARC — B) to the Commission of the European Communities (6 february 1987) (87/C 226/88) WRITTEN QUESTION No 2615/86 by Mr Michel Debatisse, Mr Jean-Pierre Abelin, Mr Subject: Intra-Community trade in rare or endangered Jean-Marie Vanlerenberghe, Mrs Nicole Fontaine and species of animal Mr Jacques Mallet (PPE — F) to the Commission of the European Communities Following the criticism expressed by the WWF that the figures contained in the Endangered species of Wild (6 Februari 1987) Fauna and Flora) do not cover intra-Community trade, (87/C 226/87) the Commission, stressing that the Washington Con­ vention was signed by the Community as a single entity, apparently stated that like any other country that signed Subject: Delays in the payment of export refunds by the agreement, it did not have to give accounty of its Member States internal trading. No C 226/50 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87

Quite apart from any obligations deriving from the servation organisations. The criticism referred to by the Convention, would the Commission not be willing, Honourable Member was voiced by WWF/TRAFFIC nevertheless, to supply information concerning this — CITES-trade in 1984. The Commission together with internal trading? the competent authorities of the Member States, have meanwhile proven that the bulk of the WWF/TRAFF- IC-US analysis concerned was factually wrong and that its legal views about the Community's reporting abliga- tions were anachronistic to say the least.

(') OJNoL384,31. 12. 1982, p. 1.

Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis on behalf of the Commission (31 March 1987)

The Commission would first of all like to point out that the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), concerns at least as many species that are not now threatened with extinction but may become so unless trade in them is WRITTEN QUESTION No 2624/86 strictly regulated (Appendix II). In order to avoid that these species become threatened, the Convention estab­ by Mr Francois Roelants du Vivier (ARC — B) lished a monitoring system on the basis of permits and to the Commission of the European Communities certificates. Annual reports on trade by all Parties to (6 February 1987) the Convention should provide the necessary infor­ mation on total trade in the species concerned — an (87/C 226/89) important element for the calculation of their total level of exploitation. On the basis of that information the Subject: Measures against discharges of nitrates and effects of international trade on populations of the phosphates species in question can be estimated, provided that the necessary biological data are also available. The Danish Parliament has adopted a resolution calling for a plan to reduce discharges of nitrates and phos­ phates in Danish waters by 50 % and 80 % respectively over a period of three years. Therefore, information on trade within the Community woud not contribute to achieving the above described 1. Does the Commission have any details of this plan? aim of the Convention. 2. Can the Commission say whether similar measures are currently being considered in any other Member States? Secondly, it should be noted that Council Regulation ! (EEC) No 3626/82 ( ) on the implementation of the 3. What measure does the Commission recommend to Convention in the Community provides for common reduce discharges of nitrates and phosphates? external border controls and does away with the pre­ viously existing system of export permits, re-export certificates and import permits for trade in CITES specimens between Member States. There is conse­ quently no basis for the drawing up of reports on trade within the Community, which is perfectly in accordance Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis 3 with Article XIV ( ) of the Convention. on behalf of the Commission (28 April 1987)

The Commission based itself on the above consider­ 1. The Commission does possess information relat­ ations and not, as indicated by the Honourable Mem­ ing to the plans for nitrogen and phosphorus reductions ber, on the fact that the Community as such has signed requested by the Danish Parliament. the Convention, which it in fact has not because the approved amendment to the Convention, which allows 2. The Commission is calling together national Community accession, has not yet been ratified by experts from all Member States in the first half of 1987 sufficient Parties to the Convention. to discuss nitrogen and phosphorus in waters and will seek information on whether analogous measures are under discussion within other Member States.

The Community's situation with regard to annual 3. The Commission is formulating a proposal which reporting has meanwhile been accepted by most Parties it intends to submit to the Council this year which to the Convention and the main European nature con­ will contain measures to reduce nitrogen inputs to 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/51

Community waters. The Commission will await the for successful candidates, which is generally two years, outcome of discussions with national experts on phos­ and of any extension. The Commission draws on the phorus discharges before formulating measures, if any reserve lists as and when the need arises and as budget­ are necessary, for their reduction. ary resources permit.

The time between the admission of an application to a competition and, if he is successful, an offer of employ­ ment during the period of validity fo the list of success­ ful candidates therefore varies.

The Commission is endeavouring to take internal meas­ ures to speed up these procedures.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2627/86 by Mr Christopher Jackson (ED — GB) to the Commission of the European Communities (6 February 1987) (87/C 226/90)

Subject: Recruitment to the Commission

It was recently reported in a national newspaper that: 'Recruitment ot the Commission... can be a wearying experience. Two years between application and final job offer is average'. Would the Commission please: WRITTEN QUESTION No 2635/86 by Mr Robert Delorozoy (LDR — F) 1. outline the procedure which is followed, with approximate timescales for the different stages for to the Commission of the European Communities handling job applications at A, B and C grades, (6 February 1987) (87/C 226/91) 2. indicate the average time between application and job offer, if made,

3. indicate whether steps are being taken to reduce the time required to make decisions on job applications. Subject: 1987 Environment Year — Measures to com­ bat forest fires

1987 has been declared 'Environment Year' by the European Council. The environment is part of the heritage and the daily life of Europeans. Every summer Answer given by Mr Christophersen the Mediterranean countries experience terrible heat­ on behalf of the Commission waves that cause devastating forest fires. France, Spain, Greece and Italy have seen fires of catastrophic pro­ (3 April 1987) portions. Some fires are started deliberately but their spread is due to forest management and the fire-fighting Competitions organized by the Commission ar directed, resources available. Fire prevention and fire-fighting is in accordance with Article 27 of the Staff Regulations, the responsibility of the Member States and of the local to securing for the institution the services of officials of authorities concerned. There is a need for the European the highest standard of ability, efficiency and integrity, Community, by proposing a policy of prevention in recruited on the broadest possible geographical basis high-risk geographical area, to make the European pub­ from among nationals of the Member States of the lic at large more aware of the problem, particularly Communities. since the areas at risk have many visitors during the summer. Most of them are open competitions held at the same time in all the Member States and resulting in the As part of Environment Year, could the Commission establishment by a selection board of a list of suitable not put forward proposals on fire prevention measures candidates as a reserve for recruitment. Candidates and urge the Council to adopt a wide-ranging policy are informed of the results. Successful candidates are on the environment, which is the common heritage of similarly informed of the period of validity of the list all Europeans. No C 226/52 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87

Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis complementary activities in 1987. on behalf of the Commission (*) Regulations (EEC) No 3528/86 and No 3529/86 of 17 November 1986, OJ No L 326, 21. 11. 1986. (18 May 1987)

European Year of the Environment (EYE) coincides with the first year of applicaiton of two regulations recently adopted by the Council, on the basis of Com­ mission proposals, with a view to improving the protec­ tion of forests in the Community (1). The Commission will make use of this fortunate coincidence to give as much publicity as possible to its measures to make the public more aware of the dangers to forests in Europe and the efforts which must be made to deal with these dangers at all levels.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2638/86 EYE is therefore an ideal opportunity for the Com­ mission to issue a reminder that the protection of forests by Mr Florus Wijsenbeek (LDR — NL) is now no longer a purely local matter which is the to the Commission of the European Communities concern of a few specialists but a major and constant (6 February 1987) concern of all Europeans. (87/C 226/92)

Forest fires represent a topic of general interest for Subject: Establishment of medical practitioners EYE. Special attention should be paid to them. One of the above regulations is specifically intended to improve Can the Commission say whether the statutory pro­ the preventive arrangements in this respect. The preven­ visions in force in the Netherlands whereby medical tive measures which the Commission has already taken practitioners cannot set up in practice without the on a preparatory basis and the measures which it is authorization of their professional association and the about to take in the context of the rules now in force Ministry of Welfare, Health and Cultural Affairs, is will therefore, thanks to EYE, ba able to benefit from compatible with the principle of mutual recognition of considerable media support. The Community's efforts diplomas and the associated freedom of establishment to protect forests will thus be given greater publicity, for general practitioners valid in the European Com­ and the population concerned in the south and in the munity? north of the Community will be made more aware of these Community measures. The relevant provisions are contained in a Royal Decree of 12 October 1985, published in Staatsblad No 574.

In this respect, the Commission regrets that several Member States could not participate in the Eurosilva project whereby the summer of 1987 young people from the Nothern European countries were to have taken part in surveillance operations in the forests of the Answer given by Lord Cockfield Mediterranean regions of the Community which are at on behalf of the Commission risk from forest fires. The cancellation of this operation in 1987 young people from the northern European (27 April 1987) countries were to have taken part in surveillance ope­ rations in the forests of the Mediterranean regions of the Community which are at risk from forest fires. The The Royal Decree laying down the rules regarding cancellation of this operation in 1987 does not mean the establishment and number of patients served by that the Commission will not organize other measures a general practitioner's practice of 12 October 1985, of the same type in the future. referred to by the Honourable Member, subjects the general practitioners' establishment in a given place to approval by the local authorities and specifies the The Community's support for measures to protect minimum number of patients who may be served by forests over a period covering a number of years (at the proposed practice. least 5) will no doubt prompt those who wish to cel­ ebrate EYE in more than a passing way to choose in The Commission considers that such measures which particular the protection of forests as a theme for their seek to improve the geographical distribution of doctors activities, in the assurance that the Community will within a given Member State are not in principle con­ continue to focus attention on this subject. trary to Community law, provided they do not entail discrimination between nationals of the host country and nationals of other Member States. The Commission The Commission therefore considers that EYE and the has not received any complaint on this subject to date. launching of action by the Community to protect forests against fires in particular will constitute two mutually 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/53

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2650/86 It is the responsibility of the national authorities to by Mr Paul Staes (ARC — B) evaluate all safety aspects of an installation, including the adequacy of the operating staff, when authorizing to the Commission of the European Communities its operation. (12 February 1987) (J) Report EUR 10118 (ISBN 92-825-5747-2) and (87/C 226/93) Report EUR 10981 (ISBN 92-825-6989-6), Office for official publications of the European Communities, L-2985 Luxem­ Subject: Safety at nuclear power stations bourg. (2) OJ No L 246, 17 09 1980 as amended by OJ No L 265, 05. 10. 1984. Following the Chernobyl nuclear accident, the govern­ ments of various countries have again placed extra emphasis on safety at nuclear power stations, as is always the case after an accident.

The 30 staff of the Mol nuclear energy research centre (SCK) in Belgium recently issued a strike warning because of staff shortages which mean that two of the six teams are not up to full strength. This has been the WRITTEN QUESTION No 2652/86 case for five years. The staff point out that the accident by Mr Jose Alvarez de Eulate Penaranda (ED — E) at Harrisburg, involving the same type of reactor, was to the Commission of the European Communities attributable to human error as a result of the staff being over-tired. (12 February 1987) (87/C 226/94) Does the Commission not share my view that as long as such unthinkable situations can occur, after Harrisburg Subject: The Commission's forecasts for the future of and even after Chernobyl, it seems meaningless to talk the European Monetary System of greater safety at nuclear power stations? How is it that, despite all the so-called controls and international The recent realignment of currencies in the intra-Com- agreements, such a situation can arise? Is the staff munity framework of the European Monetary System complement not subject to outside control, as one of showed that the system, which was established in 1979, the main safety factors, particularly when an extremely is clearly proving extremely effective and worthwhile, serious accident in the past is known to have been especially with a view to the eventual aim of crating a caused by this very factor? common European currency.

Nevertheless, this realignment has served as a reminder that four Community currencies, the pound sterling, the Greek drachma, the Portuguese escudo and the Spanish peseta, still do not belong to the system, which makes it difficult for significant steps to be made towards achieving the above-mentioned aim of a com­ mon European currency in the not-too-distant future. Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis on behalf of the Commission Can the Commission say what it knows about the (11 May 1987) present position of these four currencies with regard to the European Monetary System and how soon they can be expected to join it? The Commission agrees that the performance of the operating personnel represents a vital element in the safe operation of nuclear installations. Answer given by Mr Delors In this field a report on 'Qualification-training- on behalf of the Commission licencing/authorisation and retraining of operating per­ (14 May 1987) sonnel in nuclear power plants' has been published (1). The European monetary system (EMS) is intended to Conforming to the requirement of the Council direc­ link together all Member States' currencies. Its prime tives laying down the basic safety standards for the objective is to create a zone of monetary stability in health protection of the general public and workers Europe through closer monetary cooperation. In view against the dangers of ionizing radiation (2), Member of the differing initial situations, measured by the cri­ States have appointed competent national authorities teria of economic and financial convergence, not all responsible for the licensing of nuclear installations Member States have been in a position to participate including research reactors. fully in all the mechanisms. No C 226/54 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87

Sterling, which is included in the ECU, has remained munity and, because of the broad range of topics outside the exchange-rate mechanism. Its participation, covered, they are of particular interest to anybody who which the Commission would welcome, would widen follows the latest developments in publications about the base, and enhance the credibility, of the EMS. the Community. The Greek drachma is in a similar position as regards the various operational arrangements of the EMS. Like In many cases, the small number of copies printed the United Kingdom, Greece formally belongs to the and their sometimes very limited distribution does not EMS but does not participate in the exchange-rate and reflect the importance of these publications dealing with intervention mechanisms. In 1985, the Central Bank of the Community or Europe in general. Greece signed the Agreement between Member States' central banks laying down the operating procedures for the EMS. The drachma was included in the ECU in September 1984, on the occasion of the first five-year Can the Commission say whether it has a data bank review, and Greece deposited with the EMCF gold and on publications about the Community and whether it foreign currency reserves against ECUs in January 1986. considers that a system should be set up to ensure that However, for the Greek economy to benefit in full publishers in the Member States who so wish may from the drachma's participation in the exchange-rate publish works about the Community written in any mechanism, further progress towards monetary stab­ country and in any Community language, so as to ility would probably be needed. make them available to the widest possible general and academic readership? The situation of the peseta and the escudo is different, Spain and Portugal having joined the Community only on 1 January 1986. Since then, the two countries have had access to the short-term financial support and medium-term financial assistance mechanisms, which may also be used for purposes other than those of the EMS. The matter of inclusion of the peseta and the escudo in the ECU was the subject of a joint declaration annexed to the Act of Accession. The declaration states that 'all the Member States have the right for the their Answer given by Mr Ripa di Meana currency to be included in the ECU' and that 'the on behalf of the Commission decisions to include the peseta and the escudo must take into account the necessity of ensuring a stable (29 April 1987) development of the functions and uses of the ECU'. In theory, either of these decisions could be taken on the occasion of the next five-year review of the weighting The Commission has always been anxious to provide of the EMS currencies due in 1989. information on the publications available on Com­ Spain and Portugal have not as yet signed the Agree­ munity subjects to all those interested. ment between Member States' central banks laying down the operating procedures for the EMS. Partici­ pation in the exchange-rate mechanism does not seem With this in mind, its Information Offices in the Mem­ to be envisaged in the immediate future. ber States each have a documentation centre containing copies of all the official Community publications. These centres are open to members of the public and to researchers, who make extensive use of them.

In addition, a number of data bases accessible to all those interested, including publishers, have been set up. The two main ones are SCAD, which includes reference data on the official publications of the Community institutions, and EABS, which is a bibliographical base and contains information on all documents published WRITTEN QUESTION No 2654/86 in connection with the Commission's scientific and by Mr Manuel Cantarero del Castillo (ED — E) technical research. to the Commission of the European Communities (12 February 1987) Also relevant here is the ECLAS bibliographical data (87/C 226/95) base set up by the Commission's Central Library. Titles listed include 36 047 entries relating to works on the Subject: Publication of material about the European Community and the Member States and 11 560 entries Community on Community publications and documents dating back to 1978. The ECLA base has not yet been opened Publishers in the Member States of the European Econ­ to the public; this possibility is being studied. In any omic Community are publishing an increasing number event, the contents of the base dealing with publications of general works on subjects connected with the Com­ and documents on Community affairs can be consulted 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/55

by the public in hard copy in the following two publi­ Is it true that France and other Member States authorize cations produced by the Central Library: the free movement of those taking early retirement? Has the Commission made representations to the Belgian — recent publications on the European Communities authorities — and, where appropriate, the Authorites (monthly and annual cumulation); of other Member States — with a view to having — publications and documents of the European Com­ the relevant legislation amended, and if so with what munities (updated annually), results? which are available on subscription from the Office for Official Publications of the European Communities. The Commission feels that all the ressources listed above are sufficient to meet the needs of those interested in publishing Community material. Answer given by Mr Marin on behalf of the Commission (28 April 1987)

Early retirement benefits and, in general, the measures taken in the Member States to encourage older workers to give up employment to make room for younger workers are not the same as those envisaged by Council Regulation (EEC) No 1408/71 on the application of social security schemes to employed persons, to self- employed persons and to members of their families WRITTEN QUESTION No 2665/86 moving within the Community (*). by Mr Ernest Glinne (S — B) to the Commission of the European Communities (12 February 1987) We should consequently refer to the provisions in force (87/C 226/96) regarding unemployment, which the Commission for­ warded to the Council a proposal for a Regulation (2) aimed inter alia at enabling nationals of one Member Subject: Incompatibility of Belgian legislation on early State taking early retirement to transfer their residence retirement and the right to freedom of move­ in a Member State other than the State in question ment between the Member States of the Com­ without forfeiting their right to early retirement benefit. munity

Under the terms of Agreement No 17, concluded on 14 In the absence of unanimity, as required by Article 51 December 1974 by the Belgian National Labour of the EEC Treaty, the Council has not to date been able Council, terminating the employment of older workers to adopt this proposal. The Commission is currently in order to continue to employ and recruit younger examining the possibilities of achieving this unanimity, workers, those taking 'early retirement' are officially while safeguarding workers' interests. considered to be unemployedd. While exempted from controls by the Authorities of the Commune, they are nevertheless obliged to register every month with the National Employment Office which is run by the Minis­ Given the present state of Community legislation, the try for Employment and Labour and to give an address Commission cannot oblige a Member State to pay in Belgium. Hence, employees taking early retirement unemployment benefit to any person residing outside are unable to move to and take up established residence its territory. Nevertheless, the Commission considers in the territory of another Member State while at the that it is up to the parties concluding Belgian Agreement same time claiming benefits, in particular those govern­ No 17 within the framework of the Belgian National ed by the Royal Decree of 1 February 1984 concerning Labour Council to abolish the residence requirement undertakings in difficulty. As a result, not only those on which the right to benefit depends since, while a living in border areas but also, for example, married condition of this kind can be justified for unemployed couples in which the wife is of French origin wishing workers subject to the labour market of a Member to spend their retirement in France, suffer considerable State, this has no sense where workers have been difficulties and inconvenience. removed from the labour market by measures laid down in this argument.

Can the Commission say whether Belgian legislation, (') OJ No L 230, 22. 8. 1983. 2 according to which those taking early retirement under ( ) OJ No C 169, 9. 7. 1980. such agreements are currently obliged to have an estab­ lished address in Belgium, is compatible with the pro­ visions of the Treaty of Rome on freedom of movement between the Member States of the Community (Article 48 et seq.)? No C 226/56 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2669/86 meeting within the Council of 13 November 1986, on business sponsorship of cultural activities (*). by Mr Jaak Vandemeulebroucke (ARC — B) to the Commission of the European Communities (12 February 1987) On the specific question of Commission action in this (87/C 226/97) field, the Honourable Member is referred to the draft resolution of the Council and of the Minsiters respon­ Subject: Eureka sible for cultural affairs meeting within the Council concerning the adoption of new measures in the cultural The Eureka programme commenced approximately sector, presented by the Commission on 2 May 1985 (2), two years ago and at present involves 109 groups of which provides that 'the Member States of the European participants. Communities... will apply the tax deductions applicable to patronage where a cash gift or bequest is made to In how many of these projects are Belgian undertakings an approved body or person in a Member State other participating and which undertakings are involved? than that in which the patron is resident... and under­ take to work towards the rapid adoption of the Com­ mission's proposals on the 7th, 17th and 19th VAT Answer given by Mr Narjes Directive as far as the VAT regime in the cultural sector on behalfof the Commission is concerned'. (10 April 1987)

The Commission's role in Eureka is as a partner with The Economic and Social Committee has already the same standing as the European countries partic­ endorsed the draft resolution but Parliament has not ipating. yet given its opinion. The Honourable Member should therefore address his question to the responsible Belgian authorities, which are the proper source to supply the information For their part, the Ministers responsible for cultural requested. affairs, meeting within the Council on 20 December 1985, and the Council itself have gone no further than an exchange of views on tax questions in the cultural sector; however, this has shown that there is broad agreement on the expediency of granting tax relief to encourage cultural activities and, by extension business sponsorship in this area.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2670/86 The Commission would remind the Honourable Mem­ ber that it has been concerned with the question of arts by Mr Jaak Vandemeulebroucke (ARC — B) sponsorship since 1975, when it asked Professor Claeys- to the Commission of the European Communities Bouaert of Ghent University to produce a study on the (2 February 1987) tax arrangements governing cultural foundations and arts sponsorship in the Member States; this was fol­ (87/C 226/98) lowed by a second study on arts sponsorship in the financing of culture in the EEC Member States carried Subject: Arts sponsorship out by Autrement/Atelier pour la Creation (4 rue d'Enghien, Paris) in September 1986 and by the second At the end of last year a number of press reports revised edition of the Guide for the plastic artist (pro­ appeared concerning cooperation between arts sponsor­ duced in 1986 by Mrs Raymonde Moulin, Director at ship organizations in the various Member States. The the CNRS (National Centre for Scientific Research), five organizations concerned represent a considrable which makes a comparative analysis of legislation on percentage of the apporximatley 600 organizations arts sponsorship in ten Member States. interested in giving their support to the arts by means of sponsorship.

Having already expressed its support for arts sponsor­ The Commission regrets that it has not yet been possible ship by undertakings, to what extent is the Commission to translate these studies into specific Community meas­ now prepared to participate? ures, particularly in the field of business sponsorship.

(•) OJ No C 320, 13. 12. 1986. Answer given by Mr Ripa di Meana (2) Doc. COM(85) 194 final. on behalf of the Commission (6 May 1987)

The Honourable Member is referred to the resolution of the Ministers with responsibility for Cultural Affairs, 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/57

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2687/86 Can the Commission provide information on the pro- by Mr Ernest Muhlen (PPE — L) gess made to date on the preparation of the Eurofer study on the restructuring of the European steel to the Commission of the European Communities industry? (12 February 1987) (87/C 226/99) Can the Commission provide a breakdown by country, region and company of the planned reductions in capacity? Subject: Administrative formalities and procedures inhibiting the development of small and me­ dium-sized undertakings What contacts have there been between the Com­ mission and Eurofer with a view to preparing this 1. Is the Commission aware of the study carried study? out by the Luxembourg Government with a view to simplifying the administrative formalities and pro­ cedures laid down for small and medium-sized under­ takings which considerably inhibit their development? Answer given by Mr Narjes on behalf of the Commission 2. Does it not believe that the governments of the (14 April 1987) other Member States should be urged to carry out similar studies and that, on the basis of the findings, there should be concerted action at European level to On 2 March Eurofer provided to the Commission a remove these obstacles? report relating to the restructuring of the steel industry under certain conditions. This is the result of an initiat­ ive taken by Eurofer, and involved discussions with 35 steel producers, including producers who are not Answer given by Mr Matutes members of Eurofer. The Commission took no part in on behalf of the Commission these discussions, but has received progress reports in order to ensure that the final report would be available (8 April 1987) to the Commission by the beginning of March. In accordance with the decision of the Council of 18 1. No November, the Eurofer report is being examined by the Commission. Mr Narjes has informed the European 2. The Commission is firmly convinced that there Parliament about the Commission's position in the should be concerted action at European level to reduce plenary session of 12 March 1987. the administrative formalities and procedures inhibiting the development of small and medium-sized undertak­ ings. It has therefore convened a subgroup of the Com­ As far the tonnages involved are concerned the proposal mittee of Senior Industry Officials in order to carry out indicates possible closures amounting to 10 485 million a comparative examination of the steps taken by the tonnes fo hot rolling capacity and 1 050 million tonnes Member States in this sphere with a view to ensuring of cold rolling capacity. These totals are broken down that the most appropriate provisions are introduced as by principal product groups, but no indication is given widely as possible. Where appropriate, the Commission of country, region or producer concerned. will make recommendations to the Member States to this end.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2699/86 by Mr Andrew Pearce (ED — UK) to the Commission of the European Communities (19 February 1987) (87/C 226/101)

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2693/86 Subject: Breach of Staff Regulations on payment of officials abroad by Mrs Anne-Marie Lizin (S — B) to the Commission of the European Communities With reference to paragraph 11.20 of the Court of Auditors' report for 1985, did the Commission continue (19 February 1987) in 1986 to be in breach of Staff Regulations in paying (87/C 226/100) certain officials serving in non-member countries at a United States dollar conversion rate other than the Subject: Progress made on the Eurofer study on the current one and, if so, what was the loss to the Com­ restructuring of the steel industry munity budget from such abuse? No C 226/58 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87

Answer given by Mr Christophersen 3. Does not the Commission believe there is an urgent on behalf of the Commission need to draw up a proposal for a regulation for the (19 May 1987) common organization of the market in the potato sector in connection with the fixing of farm prices for the 1987-1988 marketing year? The Commission can confirm that during 1986 it con­ tinued to pay officials in certain places of employment (') Doc. No B 2-1718/84 in dollars. (2) Doc. No B 2-1390/85

Distortions in the national currencies in the countries in question forced the Commission to take special meas­ ures to ensure equal treatment of officials employed Answer given by Mr Andriessen outside the Community. Nevertheless the Commission on behalf of the Commission is aware that this solution is only a stopgap until appropriate rules are adopted. It has therefore proposed (27 April 1987) special provisions to be incorporated in the Staff Regu­ lations to cover such staff (*); these have been approved 1. The crises on the potato market are mainly due by Parliament and are now before the Council. to the wide year-to-year varitations in yields per hectare and the low elasticity of demand for this product: a The Commission would draw the Honourable Mem­ slight surplus tends to result in stagnating or reduced ber's attention to the fact that conversion of a part of prices. the remuneration at a stable rate has stabilized the purchasing power of salaries. 2. There is no obstacle to freedom of intra-Com- munity trade, which is completely untrammelled, obey­ (') Doc. COM(86) 565 final 21. 10. 1986. ing only the law of supply and demand. 3. A Commission proposal concerning potatoes has been on the table in the Council since 23 January 1976 i1). This proposal has not been endorsed, the last discussions having been held in November 1979.

(') Doc. COM(75) 690 final.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2705/86 by Mr Mauro Chiabrando (PPE — I) to the Commission of the European Communities (19 February 1987) (87/C 226/102) WRITTEN QUESTION No 2708/86 Subject: Common organization of the market in the by Mr Giorgio Rossetti and Mr Angelo Carossino potato sector (COM —I) to the Commission of the European Communities Having regard to the motions for resolutions tabled by (19 February 1987) 1 2 Mr Debatisse( ) and Mr Chaibrando ( ) on the market (87/C 226/103) in potatoes and the reference in the resolution on farm prices for the 1984-1985 marketing year to the extension Subject: Action taken on the communication from the of the market regulation to products not as yet covered, Commission on the industrial, social and regional aspects of shipbuilding 1. Is the Commission aware that potatoes — a product Following the adoption of the Sixth Directive on aid for which there is no common market organization to shipbuilding (doc. COM(86) 531 final), will the — are subject to recurrent price and marketing Commission state when it intends to submit the social crises? and regional provisions referred to in its communi­ cation doc. COM(86) 553 final to the Council and Parliament? 2. Does the Commissioon not feel that the disparities between national legal provisions in this sector are Given that the estimates drawn up be the Commission likely to create obstacles and distortion of compe­ point to the loss of 45 000 jobs, does not the Com­ tition where marketing both inside and outside the mission agree that these provisions are both urgent and Community is concerned? vital? 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/59

Answer given by Mr Marin Answer (l) on behalf of the Commission (13 July 1987) (4 May 1987) Giving effect to their Decision of 10 September 1985, The Commission expects to adopt the second communi­ the Ministers for Foreign Affairs of the Twelve cation on the industrial, social and regional aspects of announced in their statement of 16 September 1986 a shipbuilding during the second half of this year. It series of both 'positive' and 'restrictive' measures in agrees with the Honourable Members that its pro­ respect of South Africa. A copy of this statement will posals, especially on the social and regional issues, are be conveyed to the Honourable Member under separate both urgent and vital. cover.

(!) This answer has been provided by the Foreign Ministers meeting in political cooperation, within whose province the In view of the deterioration in the situation, the Com­ question came. mission considers that, to obtain assistance from the European Regional Development Fund, the Member States concerned may as rapidly as possible submit co- financing applications in the form of multiannual pro­ grammes for the most seriously affected areas.

The Commission intends for its part to propose a Community programme under Article 7 of the ERDF WRITTEN QUESTION No 2715/86 Regulation (!) so as to facilitate conversion and by Mr William Newton Dunn (ED — GB) especially the creation of alternative jobs in areas with to the Commission of the European Communities particularly serious restructuring problems by Com­ munity standards. (19 February 1987) (87/C 226/105) (') Council Regulation (EEC) No 1787/84; OJ No L 169, 28. 6. 1984, p. 1. Subject: 'The Polluter Pays' principle

Would the Commission agree that the principle that 'the polluter pays' should apply to archaeological sites? In other words, should property developers be obliged to pay for the cost of excavating and reporting archaeo­ logical remains which their subsequent development destroys?

Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis on behalf of the Commission (11 May 1987) WRITTEN QUESTION No 2710/86 by Mrs Raymonde Dury (S — B) Community policy with respect to the Polluter Pays Principle is set out in the Council Recommendation to the Council of the European Communities regarding cost allocation and action by public authori­ (19 February 1987) ties on environmental matters. (75/436/Euratom, 1 (87/C 226/104) ECSC, EEC( )). This defines a polluter as 'someone who directly or indirectly damages the environment or who creates conditions leading to such damage' and requires that polluters should 'pay the costs of such Subject: Trade sanctions against South Africa measures as are necessary to eliminate that pollution or to reduce it... so as to comply with standards or equivalent measures laid down by the public authori­ The European Energy Foundation's information bul­ ties'. Damage to archaeological sites would therefore letin reports that the Italian firm ENEZ has just signed appear prima facie to come within the scope of the a contract to buy coal from South Africa at a time principle, but it would be for national authorities to when the United States has decided that it will no longer determine its application in specific circumstances. import eight sensitive mineral products from South Africa. Does the Council of Ministers intend to take (') OJ No L 194, 25. 7. 1975, p. 1. appropriate measures with regard to the trade sanctions against South Africa? No C 226/60 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2721/86 The Honourable Member's attention is drawn to the by Mrs Ludivina Garcia Arias (S — E) fact that several other ideas for projects have since been discussed during recent contacts between the Com­ to the Commission of the European Communities mission and the Philippines Government. (19 February 1987) (87/C 226/106) Besides being willing to help the Philippines with the funding of rural development projects, the Commission Subject: Future cooperation projects with the Philip­ is also well aware of the difficulties the country has in pines absorbing such assistance.

What cooperations projects with the Philippines are The Commission will do everything it can to help the envisaged for the near future? authorities concerned both in the project identification and preparation stages and in project management.

What stage has been reached in their preparation? (') Crop Protection Programme — 1980 — 3.5 million ECU.

Answer given by Mr Cheysson on behalf of the Commission (28 April 1987)

In June 1986 the Commission announced a 45 million WRITTEN QUESTION No 2735/86 ECU aid programme covering agricultural, food aid and assistance projects to be carried out via NGOs. by Mr Jaak Vandemeulebroucke (ARC — B) to the Council of the European Communities This aid is a practical demonstration of the Com­ (27 February 1987) munity's support for the new Governement in its efforts (87/C 226/107) to deal with a particularly difficult economic situation. Subject: European security policy In particular, projects to assist the development of the rural sector in the Philippines are being prepared. Article 30 (6) of the European Act states, inter alia, that the Member States are ready to coordinate their Preparations for the first development project in Cordi­ positions more closely on the political and economic llera Central (North Luzon), one of the coutry's most aspects of security. At the same time, the Western under-developed areas, have now been completed; this European Union agree, following what happened in the project focuses on rural infrastucture and the develop­ Community, to hold regular meetings with the political ment of agricultural production, in close cooperation directors of the Foreign Ministries. with the local communities. The project will soon be submitted to the Committee on aid to developing Countries in Latin America and Asia, and if it is I should like to know whether meetings of the political approved the Commission will then take a decision on committees of EPC and the WEU are held concurrently the commitment of funds. The proposed amount is and how policy decisions in EPC and the WEU are some 18 million ECU. coordinated. A second project, concerning the development of regional centres for rural craft industries, is currently under preparation. Feasibility studies are to be carried out in the very near future so that appraisal of the project can be finalized. Answer (*) Following the first (recently completed) stage (*) of a (10 July 1987) project to draw up a national crop protection pro­ gramme, cofinances by a Community Member State The activity of the WEU do not fall within the ambit (Federal Republic of Germany), the Commission is of European Political Co-operation. considering implementing a second stage of the pro­ gramme, aimed mainly at consolidating the objectives (') This answer has been provided by the Foreign Ministers so far attained. meeting in political cooperation, within whose province the question came. A team of experts is currently in the Philippines to work out the practical details. 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/61

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2748/86 The European Community is endeavouring to ensure that European firms participate in the construction of by Mr Kenneth Collins (S — GB) the new airport at Kansai. to the Commission of the European Communities (27 February 1987) Can the Commission say what action it has taken in (87/C 226/108) this connection and what the outcome has been?

Subject: Health and hygiene regulations for meat pro­ ducts

Would the Commission agree that the consumer interest Answer given by Mr Narjes must be paramount in the forming of legislation at on behalf of the Commission European level on meat and meat products, in order to ensure value for money and a proper standard of public (30 April 1987) health? Is it not the case, therefore, that regulation for health and hygiene for meat products produced inside In recent months the Commission has repeatedly the Community and those produced in third countries pointed out to the Japanese authorities that European should be the same and that since sausage casings are companies are interested in participating in the con­ of animal origin the regulations should apply to them struction of the vew Kansai International Airport. In as well? order for them to do so the Commission believes that steps should be taken by the Japanese authorities to increase transparency of the detailed calls for tender, to ensure that qualification requirements are non-dis­ Answer given by Mr-Andriessen criminatory and to avoid design-related technical stan­ on behalf of the Commission dards excluding foreign competition. (19 May 1987) The Commission presented a questionnaire about the project to the Kansai International Airport Company Coucil Directive 66/99/EEC on health problems affect­ l in December 1986 and a team of Commission officials, ing intra-Community trade in meat products ( ) must accompanied by local consular representatives of the ensure the free movement of meat products throughout Member States, discussed the project with the Kansai the Community whilst ensuring that uniform high levels International Airport Company in Osaka in February of health and hygiene are applied by all Member States 1987. to protect the consumer and livestock populations. The Commission has always followed this approach and At that meeting the Chairman of the Airport Company, will continue to do so. Dr. Takeuchi, proposed that EEC companies partici­ The Commission submitted proposals to Council in pate in an information seminar about the project to be October 1984 (2) to ensure that the same health stan­ held in Osaka. This will now take place on 14th May. dards apply for meat products imported from third countries. Parliament gave its opinion in June 1985 (3). The Commission believes that further measures by the Discussions on this proposal by the Council are pro­ Japanese authorities and the Airport Company are gressing. For the special case of sausage casings, the necessary in order to ensure that foreign suppliers are Commission will examine in how far the conditions of given the opportunity to compete for this project on an Directive 77/99/EEC can be applied. Proposals will equal footing with Janpanese companies. This is all the eventually be made to cover their production and more important as the Kansai Airport project is the placing on the market. first of a series of several large-scale projects to be carried out in Japan over the next decade in which (') OJ No L 26, 31. 01. 1977, p. 85. foreign constructors will be interested to compete. (2) OJ No C 286, 25. 10. 1984, p. 5. (3) OJ No C 175, 15. 07. 1985, p. 301.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2760/86 WRITTEN QUESTION No 2762/86 by Mr Lambert Croux (PPE — B) by Mr Lambert Croux (PPE — B) to the Commission of the European Communities to the Commission of the European Communities (27 February 1987) (27 February 1987) (87/C 226/109) (87/C 226/110)

Subject: Kansai airport, Osaka, Japan Subject: Energy research No C 226/62 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87

The Japanese Institute for Energy Saving estimates that 3. Can the Commission provide assurances that, given the oil price will have to go back up to 30 United States an exchange rate difference of approximately dollars a barrel to give new impetus to energy research 3 570%, exchange rate gains are not being misap­ (see proceedings fo the 13th World Energy Congress propriated? held in Cannes in October 1986). Can the Commission say:

1. whether it agrees with this statement; Answer given by Mr Cheysson 2. whether the view expressed in this statement is on behalf of the Commission likely to influence Commission policy in the area of (28 April 1987) research and pilot projects and, if so, in what way? 1. The Community's financial and technical aid to Nicaragua is largely unaffected by the exchange rate problem raised by the Honourable Member in so far Answer given by Mr Mosar as this aid covers mainly foreign currency expenditure on behalf of the Commission (for the provision of equipment, expatriate technical assistance, etc.) th?t is settled direct with European (21 May 1987) suppliers by the Commission, whereas local expenditure is generally the Government's responsibility. 1. The Commission does not subscribe to the opin­ ion that the price of oil should rise to 30 United States In the only project for which local costs were financed dollars per barrel in order to encourage energy research. by the Community—when it supplied essential prod­ ucts— the rate applied by Nicaragua to set up the 2. In its view it is essential that every means possible counterpart funds was initially the official rate. The should be employed to use energy efficiently and to Central Bank of Nicaragua, however, in accordance substitute for oil using existing technology wherever it with the obligations set out in the financing agreement is economic to do so. In addition there should be no for the project, revalued the currency several times in slackening of effort to encourage innovation by energy order to maintain the purchasing power of the counter­ research, development and demonstration on energy part funds. efficiency, alternative energies and on hydrocarbon exploration and production technologies. 2. Nicaragua's policy as regards the application of exchange rates to foreign aid has undergone and is still undergoing numerous modifications, which is why the Commission has no recent information on the matter raised by the Honourable Member.

3. For the reasons in point 1, the Commission con­ siders that it has eliminated as far as possible the risks of abuse connected with exchange rates in the implementation of the Community's cooperation pro­ WRITTEN QUESTION No 2763/86 gramme in Nicaragua. by Mrs Marcelle Lentz-Cornette (PPE — L) to the Commission of the European Communities (27 February 1987) (87/C 226/111)

Subject: Exchange rate for Community aid to Nica­ ragua WRITTEN QUESTION No 2779/86 In view of the substantial difference between the official exchange rate of 1 United States dollar = 70 Cordobas by Mr Victor Arbeloa Mum (S — E) and the rate of 1 United States dollar = 2 500 Cordobas to the Commission of the European Communities on the unofficial market, can the Commision clarify (5 March 1987) the following points: (87/C 226/112) 1. Does the Commission know which of these two rates is applied by the Central Bank of Nicaragua Subject: Large-scale literacy campaigns in rural zones to Community financial aid when it is paid out to in Africa beneficiaries in local currency? What proportion of the Community's aid for devel­ 2. Does the Commission know whether the same pro­ oping countries in Africa goes towards large-scale liter­ cedure is adopted for setting the exchange rates acy campaigns in rural areas? Which organizations are applying to all beneficiaries, i.e. to state and private involved in collaborating on such projects? How many bodies? people are directly involved in this task? 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/63

Answer given by Mr Natali nology for development' programme; a list is being sent to the Commission of the European Communities directly to the Honourable Member and to Parliament's Secretariat. (27 April 1987) The Community has not financed any large-scale liter­ acy campaigns in rural Africa. Under the heading of training, the Community has provided financial support mainly for training institutes or for training programmes contained within develop­ ment projects or at a technical, vocational, advanced or research level. It has also financed numerous con­ struction projects for educational purposes. Support is given in the form of grants, symposia and seminars, supply of teaching aids and technical assist­ ance for training. WRITTEN QUESTION No 2791/86 by Mr Peter Price (ED — GB) to the Commission of the European Communities (5 March 1987) (87/C 226/114)

Subject: Democracy as a factor in development

Does the Commission agree that those developing countries which are essentially democratic have a better record of economic achievement for their peoples than WRITTEN QUESTION No 2782/86 those which have authoritarian regimes? If so, when allocating development aid, does the Commission take by Mr Victor Arbeloa Muru (S — E) into account, as one of a number of factors, whether to the Commission of the European Communities the government of the country concerned is democratic (5 March 1987) or authoritarian. (87/C 226/113)

Subject: Loss of humus in sub-Saharan Africa

Is the EEC providing any form of assistance for the research on the serious loss of humus on the continent Answer given by Mr Natali of Africa, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa? on behalf of the Commission (8 May 1987)

The Community is involved in development cooper­ ation with a large number of countries, whose political and economic systems vary widely. The Commission Answer given by Mr Natali takes the view that it is not for the Community, as an on behalf of the Commission aid donor, to interfere in a sovereign state's choice of political, economic and social patterns. In particular, (14 April 1987) when the Community signs a collective cooperation agreement with developing countries, for example the The Commission attaches high importance to matters Lome Convention, the financial resources granted concerning the conservation of natural resources in under the agreement are allocated among the countries Africa. Soil conservation and especially the protection concerned on the basis of objective criteria, without of agricultural and forestry soils are aspects that are any discrimination. looked into methodically in connection with the implementation of rural development projects. Subject to these principles, the Commision takes care The Commission supports the research being carried to ensure that Community aid is as effective as possible out by various national and international bodies with in terms of development, especially as regards its effect the aime of providing better information on what is on the well-being of the people concerned. In the needed to improve soil protection, lead to more effective specific case of the ACP States, this is in accordance action to control deterioration and the loss of humus with the guidelines laid down in Part One of the third and avoid erosion. Lome Convention and in Articles 114 and 122, which Projects financed direct by the Commission include are aimed as far as possible at involving the people in those being carried out under the 'Science and tech­ development operations affecting them. No C 226/64 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87

Lastly, the Commission, without wishing to set itself Did the Commission organize this in conjunction with up as a worldwide judge of respect for human rights, the different national marketing organizations for agri­ takes care that its activities are compatible with this cultural products? What is its verdict on this operation? objective, attempting to promote human dignity in all Will it repeat the experiment in Berlin or at other similar its aspects and bring out the positive link between shows? development and human dignity.

Answer given by Mr Ripa di Meana on behalf of the Commission WRITTEN QUESTION No 2803/86 (19 May 1987) by Mr Karl von Wogau (PPE-D) The special consumer exhibition, for which this year's to the Commission of the European Communities theme was 'The vegetables of the twelve Community (5 March 1987) countries ', was organized jointly by the Federal Minis­ try of Economic Affairs, the Federal Ministry of Labour (87/C 226/115) and Social Affairs and the Commission. Subject: Cereals prices The exhibition itself and the vegetable tastings and displays were designed to increase consumer awareness The Community's recent price decisions laid down a of the wide range of vegetables produced throughout cereals price of 40 German marks. However farmers the Member States and, with the help of dietary advice, from the Baden frontier area reported unanimously that to illustrate the importance of vegetables to healthy the maximum price attainable for the producer was 38 eating. German marks. The choice of vegetables for display and the labelling Is the Commission aware of these reports, and what is of origin were somewhat arbitrary. However, by dis­ the basis for this evident price difference? playing flags from all the Member States and selecting vegetables representing a different country each day, the organizers took great care to be evenhanded. The Commision intends to take part in the Berlin Answer given by Mr Andriessen 'Griine Woche' in 1989 provided the necessary funds on behalf of the Commission are made available. (19 May 1987)

The prices received by producers vary according to supply and demand and are generally based on inter­ vention prices. They are affected not only by the delay before payment is made for products taken into inter­ vention (90 days) and by the co-responsibility levy but also by the transport and marketing costs that have to be met by the initial purchasers. These various factors mean that the price obtained by the producer at a time of surpluses remains below the intervention price. WRITTEN QUESTION No 2825/86 by Mrs Brigitte Heinrich (ARC — D), Mr Benedikt Harlin (ARC — D), Mr Bram van der Lek (ARC — NL), Mrs Luciana Castellina (COM — I), Mrs Konstantina Pantazi (S — GR), Mr Paul Staes (ARC — B), Mr Friedrich Graefe zu Baringdorf (ARC — D), Mr Jef Ulburghs (NI — B), Mr Willy WRITTEN QUESTION No 2822/86 Kuijpers (ARC — B) and Mr Frank Schalba-Hoth by Mr Louis Eyraud (S — F) (ARC —D) to the Commission of the European Communities (5 March 1987) to the Council of the European Community (87/C 226/116) (5 March 1987) (87/C 226/117) Subject: Community presence at the 'Griine Woche' agricultural exhibition in Berlin Subject: Construction of a control centre for space weapons and the construction or use of other The EEC had a stand presenting the various European military installations in Portugal by the United vegetables at the 1987 'Griine Woche' in Berlin. States of America 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/65

A. Whereas Portugal is a member of the Council of 5. Is the Council aware that the use of the airforce Europe, a signatory to the Final Act of the Conference bases of Beja and Lajes (in the Azores) serve offen­ of Helsinki on Security and Cooperation in Europe sive military purposes, in particular US intervention (CSCE) and is a member of the European Community, with its rapid deployment force which are neither covered geographically nor technically by the NATO Treaty?

B. Convinced in the interests of safeguarding peace 6. Should the Council not be aware of the points that the European nations should not allow their terri­ mentioned in paragraphs 1, 4 and 5, is it willing to tory to be used for bases for the trial and deployment seek the necessary information without delay from of space weapons and that an unequivocal ban should the Portuguese Government? be placed on the construction of military installations on their territory except where legally binding treaties exist, Answer (*) (10 July 1987)

C. Whereas at the General Assembly of the United The issues raised by the Honourable Members have not Nations on 10. 12. 1984 an overwhelming majority of been discussed within European Political Cooperation. 150 states, including all the Member States of the Com­ munity, voted nem. con. in its Resolution 39/59 for (!) This answer has been provided by the Foreign Ministers space to be used solely for peaceful purposes and only meeting in political cooperation, within whose province the the USA abstained, question came.

would ask the Council:

1. Is the Council aware that the USA has concluded bilateral agreements with the Portuguese Gover- WRITTEN QUESTION No 2828/86 nement for the construction of a control centre for space weapons in Almodovar, in the District of by Mrs Jeanette Oppenheim (ED — DK), Mr Claus Beja? Toksvig (ED — DK), Mrs Marie Jepsen (ED — DK), 2. Does the Council believe that it is compatible with Mr Poul Moleer (ED — DK) and Mr James Moorhouse Community efforts to reduce international tension (ED —GB) if the USA constructs on the territory of a Member to the Council of the European Communities State military installations for research into, trials and deployment of space weapons, although the (5 March 1987) ABM Treaty concluded between the USA and the (87/C 226/118) USSR in 1972 prohibits all air, sea and land-based missile systems in order to maintain the mutual Subject: Efforts to create a common European policy vulnerability of the territories of the two world on refugees powers to safeguard peace?

Refugee problems are an international problem. There has been a considerable increase in the number of 3. What measures does the Council believe appropriate refugees in Europe in quite a short time and this is to restrain the Governments of Portugal and the liable to cause tension between the refugees and local USA from implementing their agreements which citizens. jeopardize peace?

The United Nations Convention relating to the Status of Refugees (Geneva Convention) of 1951 lays down 4. Is the Council aware that on the basis of further the basic principles for the granting of asylum and the bilateral agreements between the USA and Portugal, protection of refugees. Furthermore, the Convention on which are not covered by the NATO Treaty, Racism of 1965 bans any discrimination on the basis of race, colour, origin or other causes.

(a) a military satellite monitoring station is to be set up in Voia, in the District of Faro and The UN Convention relating to the Status of Refugees applies to any person who 'owing to well-founded fear of being persecuted for reasons of race, religion, (b) military bases for nuclear armed submarines nationality, membership of a particular social group or are to be constructed in Sines, in the District of political opinion, is outside the country of his national­ Setubal and in Lisbon? ity and is unable or owing to such fear, is unwilling to No C 226/66 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87 avail himself of the protection of that country; or who, arising from this Convention. The Convention does not not having a nationality and being outside the country establish a link between the status of refugee and the of his former habitual residence as a result of such granting of asylum. The conditions offered to refugees event, is unable, or owing to such fear, is unwilling to differ from Member State to Member State. return to it'. Policy on refugees can be considered as part of a general policy on human rights. Refugees are victims or poten­ 1. Can the Council describe the conditions offered to tial victims of serious human rights violations. The fact refugees in the individual Member States of the that an applicant for asylum originates in a country Community? where human rights are violated does not, as such, qualify him as a refugee in the sense of the Geneva Convention. In order to be recognised as a refugee 2. To what extend does the Council and the Com­ according to the Convention, the applicant for asylum mission believe that the problems of refugees can must make a convincing case that he has ample cause be included as part of the EEC countries' general to fear persecution in his country of origin on one of policy on human rights? the grounds stated in the Convention as referred to by the Honourable Members of Parliament. 3. Does the Council believe that -as western Europe is increasingly being seen as a geographical, economic Consultations on harmonisation of legislation and prac­ and political entity- legislation and practice as tice as regards refugees take place in several European regards the treatment of refugees including the pro­ bodies, among which the ad hoc Committee on legal cedure for applying for asylum, could profitably aspects of territorial asylum of the Council of Europe be coordinated in the Community Member States, (CAHAR). While work is being done in these fora, the possibly with a view to creating common European establishment of a new forum does not seem to be rules, for instance in cooperation with the Council necessary. of Europe? The provision of information on refugee policy to the public is dealt with by the Twelve on a national basis. 4. Will the Council take the initiative in ensuring that better and more complete information is given to Organised teaching for refugees is provided for in the the people of Europe on the background to refugee Member States of the European Community only when policy in order to avoid the emergence of any doubts a refugee has been admitted so as not to raise expec­ as to the duty of the Member States to help solve tations unduly. the international refugee problem, and to allay any misunderstandings in connection with this. Voluntary associations and organisations already play an active role in every member country of the Com­ munity in helping refugees to take part in everyday life 5. Will the Council make sure that initiatives are taken of the host country. in the Member States to provide organized teaching for those seeking asylum and especially their chil­ (') This answer has been provided by the Foreign Ministers dren in order thereby to increase their possibilities meeting in political cooperation, within whose province the of understanding our culture and way of life and to question came. impart to them, for example, the necessary com­ mand of language to be able to take part in the everyday life of the host country?

6. Will the Council help, in cooperation with the authorities of the individual Member States, to involve the public, through voluntary associations and organizations, in taking an active part in infor­ mation work in order to build up the dialogue between the refugees and the people in their immedi­ WRITTEN QUESTION No 2836/86 ate vicinity in the host country and thereby to create by Mr Olivier d'Ormesson (DR — F) a more committed background for the integration process? to the Council of the European Community (10 March 1987) (87/C 226/119)

Subject: The threat to Lebanese Christians Answer (*) (10 July 1987) The Group of the European Right is deeply concerned at the threat of genocide hanging over Lebanese Christi­ All Member States of the European Community are ans as a direct result of the military and political pres­ party to the UN Convention relating to the status of sure exerted on the Christian community by Syria in refugees (Geneva Convention) and fulfill the obligations an attempt to impose upon them agreements which 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/67 they find unacceptable. Could the Council state whether ies in the sheepmeat regime. The regime, which has it intends to take the necessary steps to dispel this threat been criticized on a number of occasions (Eyraud to Lebanon's Christians, which directly affects the report, Doc. 1-236/84, Court of Auditors' report, OJ European Community born out of the Roman and No C 234, 1984): Christian society that went before it.

— fails to uphold the principle of a single market,

Answer (^ (10 July 1987) — allows the United Kingdom to receive 75% of aid in the sheepmeat sector throught the variable slaughter The Twelve are well aware of the precarious situation premium and the unlimited ewe premium, facing all the communities of Lebanon. They have repeatedly condemned the constant deterioration in the situation in Lebanon with its unacceptable conse­ — does not guarantee fair competition between the quences for the Lebanese people, from which the UK and the continent, as the clawback that is sup­ Christian community among others is suffering. posed to perform this function is not effective.

They placed great hope in dialogue between the various Could the Commission give an assessment of the action communities of Lebanon with a view to a conference it has already taken to rectify the situation (notably the to bring about true national reconciliation between the private storage aid for 4 000 tonnes of meat)? different religious and ethnic groups in the country. They have seen that it has still not been possible for an agreement to be implemented. Does it not agree that monetary adjustments would have salutary effects? The Twelve, who reject any external interference, are convinced that it is by overcoming their internal differ­ ences that all communities in Lebanese society will be What other short-term corrective action does it intend able to safeguard the unity, sovereignty and territorial to take (in particular further advances on the ewe integrity of Lebanon. premium)?

The Twelve remain ready to help in the search for a Does it intend to put forward proposals for thorough­ peaceful solution and they are continuing to examine going reform of the sheepmeat regime to make it fairer the possibilities available to them for working in that for continental sheep farmers, most of whom are small direction. farmers with no alternative to sheep farming? (*) This answer has been provided by the Foreign Ministers meeting in political cooperation, within whose province the question came.

Answer given by Mr Andriessen on behalf of the Commission (3 April 1987) WRITTEN QUESTION No 2847/86 by Mr Louis Eyraud (S — F) and 42 other signatories to the Commission of the European Communities In addition to the short-term factors mentioned by the Honourable Members, the collapse of the market price (10 March 1987) for sheepmeat on continental markets must be seen in (87/C 226/120) relation to the fall in market prices for other meat on those markets (in particular beef/veal and pigmeat) Subject: Crisis in the sheepmeat sector although the fall in the pound sterling may admittedly compound the situation. At all events, the Commission points out that any fall in the market price in this sector The recent violent protests by French sheep farmers at is offset by the grant of the ewe premium, on which a shipments of British sheepmeat to the continent were 75% advance has already been paid in France. prompted by a slump in sales and un unprecedented collapse of prices on continental markets. The underly­ ing reasons for the slump are to be found beyond short- The Commission would stress that at present the United term factors such as the drought, which has pushed up Kingdom receives no more than 40% of all aids to production costs, and the weakness of sterling, which the sheep and goat sector (variable premium and ewe makes British sheepmeat more competitive in deficienc­ premium). No C 226/68 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87

The granting of private storage aid decided on for the Answer given by Mr Delors period 15 October to 14 November 1986 related to 100 on behalf of the Commission tonnes only. (11 June 1987)

The question regarding a possible adjustment of cur­ The European Monetary System was set up by the rency parities goes beyond a mere analysis of the market European Council Resolution of 5 December 1978. in sheepmeat and must be considered in a more general Taking the view that the establishment of a zone of context. stability in Europe was a 'highly desirable objective', the European Council had envisaged 'a durable and effective scheme'. Accordingly it called on 'the central In July 1987 the Commission intends submitting to the banks of Member States to modify their Agreement of Council a report on the way the market organization 10 April 1972 on the narrowing of margins of fluctu­ works, together with any proposals for reform which ation between the currencies of Member States'. This it considers desirable. new agreement, concluded on 13 March 1979, lays down the operating procedures for the European Mon­ etary System.

It should be pointed out, however, that the mentioned Resolution permitted Member States to defer partici­ pation in the EMS exchange-rate mechanism, even though the latter mechanism constitutes the main WRITTEN QUESTION No 2850/86 element of the system (see paragraph 3.1 of the Resol­ ution). by Mr Ioannis Boutos (RDE—GR), Mr Pierre Latailla- de (RDE — F), Mr Antonio Marques Mendes (RDE — P) and Mr Fritz Gauthier (S — D) Whil the Single Act refers to the experience acquired in cooperation within the framework of the EMS and in to the Commission of the European Communities developing the ECU (Article 102 A), it does not impose (10 March 1987) any obligation as to participation. (87/C 226/121)

Subject: Pound sterling and the European Monetary It is common knowledge that a number of private System organizations in the United Kingdom are now in favour of sterling's full participation in the exchange-rate mechanism, including the Confederation of British Industry, chambers of commerce, and financial and The importance of sterling as a reserve currency and academic bodies. The United Kingdom authorities have, a petro-currency is universally recognized. Recently, for their part, always let it be known that sterling would contrary to customary practice, the Bank of England participate in the exchange-rate mechanism when the intervened in the market using currencies other than time was right. To date, this, in their view, has not the pound (for instance, in New York dollars were sold been the case. for marks in an operation similar to those normally practised by the EMS). With regard to sterling's de facto participation in the exchange-rate mechanism, it should be noted that the In fact, many experts believe that the United Kingdom pound fell against the ECU by 7.2% between the Oot­ has de facto already joined the EMS and the British marsum realignment of April 1986 and the realignment Exchequer is doing its best to keep sterling rate fluctu­ of 2 August 1986 and by 8.16% between August 1986 ations within narrow limits by reference to the new and the Brussels realignment of 12 January 1987. These parities agreed recently at the Ootmarsum realignment. fluctuations are wider than those permitted by the March 1979 agreement between the central banks. Moreover, the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) is asking for sterling to join the EMS exchange mechan­ ism, arguing that the time has come at last for this to The Commission's position in the matter is clear: ster­ happen. ling's full participation in the exchange-rate mechanism could be nothing but beneficial for both the EMS and Can the Commission state its position on this question the United Kingdom. This view has been expressed and the recommendations it proposes to submit to the on a number of occasions, and more particularly in Council as regards the full participation, at the earliest technical terms in the successive statements made to date, of the pound sterling in the EMS exchange mech­ the Select Committee of the British House of Commons anism, given that the usefulness of this mechanism to by the Director-General responsible for economic and intra-Community trade now been proved and that the financial affairs. last psychological barriers across the Channel against the European Monetary System now seem to be breaking down? 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/69

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2868/86 Answer (!) by Mr Derek Prag (ED — GB) (10 July 1987) to the Council of the European Community The Twelfe fully share the sense of urgency expressed (10 March 1987) by the European Parliament on many occasions for (87/C 226/122) joint action by the Twelve to combat international terrorism. The Honourable Member will wish to note Subject: Joint action by the Member States to curb the work undertaken, in particular following the Trevi terrorism Ministers meeting in London on 25 September 1986.

All terrorist threats to any of the Twelve are examined This Parliament warmly welcomes the agreement of 25 very carefully by the appropriate authority cooperating September 1986 by the Ministers of the Interior of the within Trevi. Foreign policy aspects are dealt with Member States, and recalls that it has repeatedly urged in European Political Cooperation. The Twelve have such joint action by the Community and its Member devoted a great deal of attention over the past year to States to combat terrorism. Among the measures it has improving the machinery for collective action against proposed or discussed are: the threat of terrorism, both in the Trevi and the EPC framework. The key to success in their common effort lies in thorough police and intelligence cooperation and 1. Establishment of a European legal area; in the determined application of the principles they have already agreed to follow. 2. Common framework for action to counter ter­ (*) This answer has been provided by the Foreign Ministers rorism; meeting in political cooperation, within whose province the question came. 3. A Community agreement to harmonize and speed up extradition procedures, and to curb the abuse of political asylum;

4. Establishment of a mutual fully-computerized infor­ mation network on terrorism, with automatic exchange of key information between the national security services;

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2880/86 5. Common measures to curb the abuse of diplomatic privilege; by Mr Pino Romualdi (DR — F) to the Council of the European Community 6. Establishment of a European centre for research (18 March 1987) and intelligence into terrorism; (87/C 226/123)

Subject: Council meeting in Luxembourg 7. The setting up of a small joint anti-terrorist staff at European Community level, with the right to communicate directly with national anti-terrorist Following the Council's most recent meeting, could the staffs; British presidency clarify the reasons behind its stance towards Syria, and more specifically, could it be more forthcoming on the evidence in the possession of the 8. The setting up of transnational operational units of British Government. Does the Community feel that the the security services to coordinate and undertake lack of support for the United Kingdom on the part of joint action when needed; certain Community countries could constitute encour­ agement to commit terrorist acts? 9. The introduction, throughout the Community, of identity cards, with a machine-readable strip, which Does the Council not believe that it should seek Parlia­ would be extremely difficult to counterfeit. ment's opinion on such important matters.

Will the Foreign Ministers meeting in political cooper­ ation state what has so far been undertaken by the Community, what measures are planned, and what Answer (*) other forms of cooperation may conceivably be under­ (10 July 1987) taken in the future — in each case with specific reference to the above recommendations by the Community Par­ The Honourable Member of Parliament will be aware liament? of Sir Geoffre Howe's remarks to the press, after Minis- No C 226/70 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87 ters meeting in London on 10 November had again Answer given by Mr Marin discussed the Hindawi case. A court in the United on behalf of the Commission Kingdom found Hindawi guilty on 2 October 1986. In (20 May 1987) the lead-up to the Ministerial meeting on 10 November evidence of Syrian involvement was made available to The structure of the training of conference interpreters Partners' governments. I would refer to the Honourable is currently under review in several Member States. Member to the statement made by Sir Geoffrey Howe to the House of Commons on 24 October, a copy of which has been placed in the European Parliament The Commission takes the view that the best results Library. The Twelve are united in their strong condem­ are obtained by specific training of young people who nation of international terrorism and in their resolve to have completed their university studies (in law, econ­ curb terrorism in all its forms. omics, physical and natural sciences, etc.).

The Twelve are fully committed to associate the Euro­ pean Parliament closely with European Political Co­ This conclusion has also been reached in a study done operation. The Presidency regularly informs the Parlia­ for the Commission, which will be published in the ment of the foreign policy issues under discussion in near future under the direction of Mrs Seleskovitch European Political Cooperation and ensures that the and Mrs Lederer, professors at the University of Paris views of the European Parliament are duly taken into (Sorbonne). consideration.

(!) This answer has been provided by the Foreign Ministers The Commission will contact the relevant Dutch autho­ meeting in political cooperation, within whose province the rities to inform them of current problems relating to question came. the training of conference interpreters and the practical requirements involved in exercising this profession.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2893/86 by Mrs Hedy d'Ancona (S — NL) WRITTEN QUESTION No 2934/86 to the Commission of the European Communities by Mr Andrew Pearce (ED — GB) (18 March 1987) to the Commission of the European Communities (87/C 226/124) (18 March 1987) (87/C 226/125) Subject: Lack of grants to Dutch students at the HIVT (Higher Institute for Translators and Subject: Butter mountain Interpreters) in Antwerp

The HIVT in Antwerp is not recognized by the Dutch Will the Commission submit to Parliament a report on Government and consequently the 82 Dutch students the 1987 distribution, under cold weather measures, of enrolled there do not receive any financial support. This butter and other products up to 31 March 1987? is surprising seeing that education of a comparable level is not available in the Netherlands.

Is the Commission prepared to undertake the following? Answer given by Mr Andriessen on behalf of the Commission — Will it ask the Dutch Ministry of Education and Science why the HIVT cannot be recognized? (27 April 1987) The Commission intends to prepare a report on the — Will it point out to the Ministry the importance to free distribuion of food in the Community following the European institutions of this kind of training the exceptional cold weather conditions experienced for the recruitment of qualified interpreters? earlier this year. This report will be made available to the European Parliament. — Will it urge the Ministry to obtain Dutch Govern­ ment recognition of the HIVT and to provide grants for the Dutch students there? 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/71

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2936/86 — The third subsidy from which Greek cement pro­ by Mr Pearce (ED — GB) ducers might benefit are the rescure operations for companies in difficulties carried out by the Business to the Commission of the European Communities Reconstruction organization under Law 1386/83. (18 March 1987) One of the four Greek cement companies is known (87/C 226/126) to be subject to this law. Its position is still under investigation and the Commission has not yet reached a final decision. Subject: Dumping of Greek cement in the United Kingdom In its decisions the Commission has been concerned to reconcile its basic policy on export aids in intra- How can the Commission justify its refusal to end Community trade with the very special situation per­ taining in Greece. The Honourable Member might like to note two further points: (a) Greek subsidies on the price of Greek cement exported to the United Kingdom, and — only in two cases in the history of the Community, in 1968 for France and in 1985/86 for Greece, have export aids in intra-Community trade been permit­ (b) interest rate subsidies to Greek exporters of cement ted for a limited period; to the United Kingdom which it has previously declared illegal? — the net effect of the Commission's actions in reduc­ ing the Greek export subsidies are such that in the case of cement a subsidy level which was running at 17% in late 1986 will be 1 January 1988 have been reduced to 3.6%. Answer given by Mr Sutherland on behalf of the Commission 0) OJ No L 373 of 31. 12. 1985, p. 9. 2 (4 May 1987) ( ) OJ No L 357 of 18. 12. 1986, p. 28.

The Commission has not refused to end Greek subsidies on the price of Greek cement exported to the United Kingdom and interest rate subsidies to Greek exporters of cement to the United Kingdom which it has pre­ viously declared illegal. It has taken and is taking steps to ensure their abolition.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 2952/86 There are three subsidies involved. by Mrs Marie-Noelle Lienemann (S — F) to the Commission of the European Communities (18 March 1987) — The interest rate subsidy was declared incompatible (87/C 226/127) with the common market by a Commission decision of November 1985. This decision is currently subject Subject: Discrimination against foreign-sounding to a challenge in the European Court of Justice names which has yet to give its judgment. The Greek Government in the Ecofin Council of 8 December 1986 gave an assurance that whatever the Court What view does the Commission take of discriminatory decides, the subsidy will be phased out in two stages measures associated with the sound of the family names during 1987. of citizens applying for identity papers in the Com­ munity Member States?

— In respect of subsidies paid under Currency Com­ A French citizen, Mr Raoul Perez, was compelled, in mittee decision 1574/70 the Commission declared order to obtain a replacement identity card, to institute these incompatible with the common market by a proceedings in a French court so as to obtain a national­ decision of July 1985. However, given the very ity certificate even though he hold a passport and is considerable general economic difficulties of the Deputy Mayor of Corbeil Essonne. The sole reason Greek economy the Commission, by decisions based 3 given was that his name sounded Spanish. Such require­ on Article 108 ( ) EEC Treaty (COM decisions 85/ J 2 ments are not laid down for citizens whose name is 594/EEC( ) and 86/614/EEC( )), authorised Greece considered French. to continue these until 31 December 1986 and then to phase out the subsidy remaining after the intro­ duction of VAT in four steps as at 1 January 1987/ Do such attitudes appear to be in keeping with the 1988/1989 and 1990. spirit of the Declaration Against Racism and Xeno- No C 226/72 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87 phobia signed on 11 June 1986 in Strasbourg, and would Answer given by Mr Natali it not be appropriate to harmonize the arrangements for on behalf of the Commission obtaining identity papers in the Community in order to (30 April 1987) translate the concept of a People's Europe into reality? The Commission was not aware of the precise infor­ mation referred to by the Honourable Member. However, on more than one occasion in the past the Commission has stated its position on this subject fol­ lowing similar reports, in particular in statements to Parliament and in answers to Members' Written Ques­ Answer given by Lord Cockfield tions. Checks carried out directly by Commission rep­ on behalf of the Commission resentatives, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and other aid agencies have shown that aid has gener­ (21 May 1987) ally been used correctly.

It is not for the Commission to comment on the con­ ditions laid down in a Member State in order to obtain an identity card. Nor is it planned for the moment to harmonize the conditions for obtaining identity papers in the Community.

WRITITN QUESTION No 3000/86 by Mr Olivier d'Ormesson (DR — F) to the Commission of the European Communities (27 March 1987) (87/C 226/129)

Subject: Types of regime in African countries Can the Commission indicate the nature of the regime operating in each country on the African continent according to the following system of classification: WRITTEN QUESTION No 2988/86 1. Democratic and parliamentary regimes: by Mr Alfeo Mizzau (PPE — I) (a) date of election of MPs to the National Assembly to the Commission of the European Communities and the Senate, (27 March 1987) (b) membership of each group in Parliament, (87/C 226/128) 2. One-party regimes: Subject: End-use of humanitarian aid for Ethiopia (a) date of election of the party's representatives to the National Assembly, Is the Commission aware of the statements made by (b) percentage of the total vote obtained by these Dr Aradam Tedla, formerly Director-General in the representatives. Ethiopian Ministry of Justice, in Cristianita No 141, January 1987, concerning the end-use of 'Community' 3. Military regimes. aid to the Government of Ethiopia to combat hunger, aid which he says is 'used for other purposes, for acquiring arms or for paying the interest on loans from the Soviet Union'? Answer given by Mr Natali on behalf of the Commission Is there any truth in the claim by Dr Aradam Tedla (29 April 1987) that 'even aid in kind — food and medicine — does not go where it is intended: the regime keeps it for the army and shamelessly traffics in it, selling it off and The Commission does not feel able to classify regimes squeezing the last pitiful savings out of the starving in this way, since such classifications often have little people'? If all this is true, and all the signs are that it meaning and can be arbitrary. is, what political line does the Commission propose to adopt towards the Ethiopian Government, in the light of these crimes? 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/73

WRITTEN QUESTION No 36/87 2. The regulation concerning the IMPs considers by Mr Emmanuel Maffre-Bauge (COM — F) inter alia that 'the measures envisaged will boost or complement the measures already covered by the to the Commission of the European Communities existing structural funds'. Proposals for measures to (2 April 1987) be implemented under the structural funds depend on (87/C 226/130) Member States' initiative, and consequently the Com­ mission cannot affirm that France will in future submit applications for assistance in respect of French regions Subject: Regions of France involved in the IMPs and departments in receipt of IMPs for a total amount at least equal to the amount noted when the IMPs were 1. Will the Commission prepare a table listing by 2 year and region the structural funds and loans allocated implemented. Further, Article 11( ) of the Regulation concerning IMPs provides that 'increases in real terms to the regions of France involved in the IMPs in 1985 accruing to the Funds during the period concerned and 1986 respectively? shall help to finance the IMPs, but without adversely 2. Can the Commission assure me that implemen­ affecting transfers from the Funds to other less prosper­ tation of the IMPs will not lead to a reduction of the ous and priority regions'. In the immedite future the resources allocated to those regions under the structural Commission believes that bearing in mind the present funds not concerned with the IMPs from 1987 onwards? budgetary situation, the most urgent problem is to finance the IMPs within each Fund, account being taken of the very important needs of other disadvantaged regions in the Community that are not in receipt of Answer given by Mr Varfis IMPs. The Commission recently recalled that the meas­ on behalf of the Commission ures included in an IMP shall be given priority under the structural Funds. (10 June 1987) In the medium term, in connection with the reform of 1. Attached the Honourable Member will find a the Funds, the Commission adopted the principle of an table showing the subsidies and structural loans allo­ overall proposal aimed at ensuring the application of cated for IMPs in the regions and departments of Articles 11 and 12 of the Regulation concerning IMPs France. Some of the figures for 1986 are provisional. which lay down the financing methods for IMPs.

Community subsidies and loans allocated to French regions and departments affected by the IMPs (commitment appropriations in French francs)

Structural funds

Regions and ERDFf1) ESF EAGGF-Guidance (2) Departements 1985 1986 1985 1986 1985 1986

Aquitaine 121,1 MF 115,0 MF 111,9 MF 66,7 MF 31.7 MF 64,4 MF Corsica 29,5 MF 34,0 MF 14.3 MF 4,1 MF 20,2 MF 1,0 MF Languedoc-Roussillon 282,5 MF 38,0 MF 97.4 MF 46,2 MF 194,5 MF 186,9 MF Midi-Pyrenees 212,1 MF 202,9 MF 85,7 MF 38,2 MF 37,1 MF 17,7 MF Provence — Alpes Cote d'Azur 54,9 MF 100,7 MF 195,5 MF 88,0 MF 75.8 MF 24,6 MF Ardeche 0 17,6 MF 25,1 MF 1,3 MF Drome 0,5 MF 2,6 MF 7,3 MF 16,1 MF

(') With respect to the Ardeche and the Drome which belong to the Rhone-alpes region, no figures are available, the ERDF subsidies being granted at regional level. Further, the amounts against the five regions do not include amounts committed in respect of specific non-quota actions which are not allocated by region. (2) Excluding indirect actions which are not allocated by region. No C 226/74 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87

(commitment undertakings n French francs) Loans

Regions and EIB(3) NIC(3) ECSC departements 198.5 1986 1985 1986 1985 1986

Aquitaine 232,1 MF 378,4 MF 63,5 MF 8,2 MF 0 0 Corsica 44,6 MF 30,0 MF 0 0 0 0 Languedoc-Roussillon 204,3 MF 47,2 MF 20,6 MF 11,4 MF 0,2 MF 1,9 MF Midi-Pyrenees 260,2 MF 65,4 MF 39,1 MF 15,5 MF 0,5 MF 0,5 MF Provence — Alpes Cote d'Azur 10,7 MF 340,1 MF 154,8 MF 20,0 MF 60,2 MF 43,3 MF Ardeche 22,3 MF 0,6 MF 18,6 MF 4,0 MF 0 0 Drome 0 4,4 MF 32,2 MF 3,1 MF 0 0

(') Individual loans and appropr lations allocated in respect of global loans.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 53/87 authorities in the Member States concerned are only by Mr Michel Toussaint (LDR — B) applying such administrative rules which are found necessary for guaranteeing the end use of the meat, to the Commission of the European Communities further to guaranteeing equal access to the meat and (6 April 1987) equal treatment of the applicants. (87/C 226/131)

Subject: Sale of beef and veal from intervention stocks Small-scale meat-processing businesses in the Com­ munity are finding it difficult, if not impossible, to gain access to sales owing to administrative complications, securities, the quantities required and problems in rais­ WRITTEN QUESTION No 96/87 ing finance. by Mrs Marijke Van Hemeldonck (S — B) Could the Commission give details of the number of to the Council of the European Communities purchasers — broken down by nationality — over the (9 April 1987) last 12 months? (87/C 226/132)

Subject: Community action to combat international tax evasion and avoidance Answer given by Mr Andriessen On 28 November 1984 the Commission published a on behalf of the Commission communication to the Council and Parliament concern­ (21 May 1987) ing 'Community action to combat international tax evasion and avoidance'^). The Commission, by way of Regulations, provides for the selling conditions when beef is to be sold from What policy has the Community formulated on tax intervention, but the actual selling operations are man­ evasion and avoidance? aged by the national intervention agencies to whom all purchase applications are addressed. The Commission (!) Doc. COM(84) 603 final. will thus have no information as to the number and nationalities of the buyers. It is not, however, the impression of the Commission that small processors have less easy access to inter­ Answer (*) vention beef than others. As to the minimum quantity (30 June 1987) to be sold under each contract and to which the amount of security and the selling price are related, that quantity 1. The Council shares the opinion expressed by the has recently been reduced from 10 tonnes to 2 tonnes. Commission in the communication referred to by the Even the smallest processor on an industrial level will Honourable Member that any action against inter­ be able to cope with such a limited quantity. As to national tax evasion and avoidance means first of all the administration of processing sales, the competent strengthening mutual assistance within the Community. 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/75

This can be achieved largely by making fuller use of Answer (!) the possibilities for collaboration afforded by Directive (30 June 1987) 77/79/EEC(2) and 79/1070/EEC concerning mutual assistance by the competent authorities of the Member States in the field of direct taxation and VAT(3). 1. Generally speaking, the Council is in favour of the conclusion of appropriate agreements — including 2. As regards co-operation with third countries, and bilateral agreements between Member States — having in particular with the Community's main trade and as their purpose the provision of information or even financial partners, the Council took the necessary steps assistance between neighbouring States in the matter of in May 1985 to enable the Community Member States nuclear safety. The same applies a fortiori if the aim of to accept the Council of Europe's multilateral mutual such agreements is, with due regard for the powers of assistance Convention without the Community rules the EAEC, to increase such safety to the highest degree applicable in that field being affected. possible.

(*) This answer has been provided by the Foreign Ministers 2. The Council does not ensure the Community- meeting in political cooperation, within whose province the wide consistency of such bilateral agreements. question came. (2) OJ No L 336, 27. 12. 1977, p. 15. The Commission has, however, very recently put before (3) OJ No L 331, 27. 12. 1979, p. 8. the Council a proposation for a Council Decision con­ cerning a Community system for the rapid exchange of information in the event of abnormal radioactivity levels or a nuclear accident.

3. Many agreements of the type described in point 1 have been concluded between the Member States concerned over the last twenty years, and others such as those mentioned by the Honourable Member, have WRITTEN QUESTION No 139/87 been concluded mor recently. by Mr Ernest Glinne (S — B) However, in the specific instance referred to here, the to the Council of the European Communities agreement concerned is, according to the information at present available to the Community, a draft agreement (9 April 1987) initialled subject to confirmation by the two Member (87/C 226/133) States. This agreement has therefore not yet been con­ cluded. As far as the matter of Franco-Belgian relations referred Subject: Bilateral memoranda on nuclear safety con­ to in the question is concerned, according to the cluded between Community Member States Council's knowledge five information and assistance agreements of this type have been concluded between these two countries, four of them relating to the radio­ On 14 March 1987 the Belgian and Dutch Ministers for logical and nuclear field and the first, of 23 September the Environment signed a memorandum of understand­ 1986, to the Chooz nuclear power station. ing on nuclear safety (external protection and emer­ (!) This answer has been provided by the Foreign Ministers gency plan), described as a significant break-through meeting in political cooperation, within whose province the by Mrs Smet, the State Secretary. The text makes pro­ question came. vision for an immediate exchange of information between the two countries if one of them registers an increase in the level of radioactivity on its territory following an accident at a nuclear power station. Simi­ lar agreements should, in principle, be signed by Belgium with other parties, including France.

Since Chernobyl it is quite clear that nuclear safety (running of plants, monitoring and warnings, etc.) requires extensive transfrontier cooperation, especially WRITTEN QUESTION No 146/87 when the power stations have been located by govern­ by Mr Dario Antoniozzi (PPE — I) ment decision in the immediate proximity of a neigh­ bouring country. to the Commission of the European Communities (13 April 1987) (87/C 226/134) What are the Council's views on the negociation and conclusion of such bilateral agreements and the need Subject: Compatibility of possible national refer- to provide for maximum consistency at the optimum endums with the Treaties and the Single Act level throughout the Community, with the involvement having regard to the provisions contained in of the most appropriate of the Community institutions? national constitutions No C 226/76 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87

Can the Commission give its view on the compatibility 1987, the French delegation commented on the 'Blue of national referendums on particular aspects of energy Paper on education and culture for Europe'. policy — in particular nuclear energy — with the ECSC, EEC and Euratom Treaties and the Single Euro­ The Ministers envisaged holding, at their informal pean Act in connection with common energy policies, meeting scheduled for autumn 1987 in Denmark, a having regard to the provisions contained in national detailed exchange of views on the possibilities for: constitution on referendums? — obtaining greater advantage from the experience and achievements of bilateral co-operation in the field of education; — intensifying and, in certain cases, complementing Community action in this area. Answer given by Mr Delors on behalf of the Commission The Ministers responsible for cultural affairs have not (26 June 1987) yet had the opportunity of examining the sections on culture in the Blue Paper. The Commission would refer the Honourable Member to its answers to Written Questions no 1932/86 (l) and (*) This answer has been provided by the Foreign Ministers No 1933/86 by Mrs Squarcialupi(2). meeting in political cooperation, within whose province the question came. (J) OJ No C 226, 24. 8. 1987. (2) OJ No C 124, 11.5. 1987.

WRITTEN QUESTION No 369/87 by Mrs Emma Bonino (NI — I) to the Council of the European Communities (7 May 1987) (87/C 226/136) WRITTEN QUESTION No 273/87 Subject: Accident at the Creys-Malville nuclear power by Mr Willy Kuijpers (ARC — B) station in France to the Council of the European Communities (27 April 1987) In view of the European Parliament resolutions calling the Community's role in nuclear power station safety (87/C 226/135) to be strengthened and the fact that exposure to radi­ ation is a hazard which crosses national frontiers, does Subject: Presidency initiatives for a Community edu­ not the Council believe that the French Government cation and cultural policy should immediately be urged to shut down the nuclear reactor at Creys-Malville without delay, at least until On the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the signing the nature and cause of the incident have been properly of the Treaties of Rome, the French Government for­ established and all repair work has been carried out? warded a 'Blue Paper on education and culture for Europe', containing practical proposals, to the Commis- ion and the Member States governments. As for the project on aid for the European film and audio-visual industry, agreed to by nine Member States in February Answer (*) 1987, the above-mentioned proposals could be taken further on an intergovernmental basis rather than a (9 July 1987) Community level. Could the Presidency say what its reaction has been to 1. The safety of national nuclear installations of a the French proposals and, having regard to its own Member State falls within the sphere of responsibility responsibilities, what initiatives it is considering taking of the national and local authorities of the State con­ on Community educational and cultural policy? cerned. 2. Under no circumstances would it therefore be for the Council to request a Member State to close down an installation. Answer (!) (') This answer has been provided by the Foreign Ministers meeting in political cooperation, within whose province the (30 June 1987) question came. At the meeting of the Council and of the Ministers for Education meeting withing the Council on 14 May 24. 8. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 226/77

WRITTEN QUESTION No 371/87 WRITTEN QUESTION No 469/87 by Mrs Anne-Marie Lizin (S — B) by Mr Luc Beyer de Ryke (LDR — B) to the Council of the European Communities to the Council of the European Communities (7 May 1987) (27 May 1987) (87/C 226/137) (87/C 226/139)

Subject: Community rules governing strikes in nuclear Subject: Enclave of Macao, agreement of 26 March power stations 1987 between Portugal and China — position of the EEC Is the Council considering proposing Community rules ensuring safety in the event of strikes in nuclear power stations and requiring operators to shut down facilities After nine months of negotiations, China and Portugal under such circumstances? have agreed that the enclave of Macao, which has belonged to Portugal since 1557, will rvert to Chinese administration on 20 December 1999. A joint declar­ Answer!1) ation to this effect was signed on 26 March 1987 in (30 June 1987) Peking.

1. The measure to be taken in the event of strikes in What view does the Council take of the signing of this nuclear power stations in Member States are a matter agreement? for the national and local authorities of the Member States concerned. What economic measures does the Council intend to 2. It is therefore not for the Council to comment on take to assist Portuguese and EEC companies and indi­ the subject. viduals resident in Macao that may be obliged to leave the territory during the transitional period? (!) This answer has been provided by the Foreign Ministers meeting in political cooperation, within whose province the question came. Answer (*) (9 July 1987) It is not for the Council to adopt a position on the signing of the joint declaration by Portugal and China WRITTEN QUESTION No 396/87 on the future of the enclave of Macao, nor has the Council discussed the question of the economic pros­ by Mr Roberto Cicciomessere (NI — I) pects to which the Honourable Member refers. to the Council of the European Communities (*) This answer has been provided by the Foreign Ministers (20 May 1987) meeting in political cooperation, within whose province the (87/C 226/138) question came.

Subject: Direct elections in Portugal Can the Council say whether Portugal will meet its obligation to hold direct elections of the Members of the European Parliament by 31 December 1987, as required under Article 28 of Treaty of Accession to the WRITTEN QUESTION No 472/87 Community? by Mrs Anne-Marie Lizin (S — B) What action has the Council taken to ensure that this to the Commission of the European Communities obligation will be met? (27 May 1987) (87/C 226/140) Answer (l) (9 July 1987) Subject: Results of the informal Council meeting on the situation of women held on 30 April 1987 The Council is informed that the election by direct universal suffrage of Portugal's representatives in the 1. What was the outcome of this informal Council European Parliament will take place on 19 July 1987. meeting?

(*) This answer has been provided by the Foreign Ministers meeting in political cooperation, within whose province the 2. What proposals arising from the above meeting question came. will be forwarded to the Council of Ministers for Social Affairs and Finance? No C 226/78 Official Journal of the European Communities 24. 8. 87

Answer (!) As a result of these discussions the Labour and Social (9 July 1987) Affairs Council adopted conclusions on the first two of these three topics at its meeting on 26 May 1987. At their informal meeting on 30 April 1987 the Ministers concerned with the status of women discussed (') This answer has been provided by the Foreign Ministers vocational training for women, protective legislation meeting in political cooperation, within whose province the for women and sexual harassment at work. question came.