8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/1
(Information)
EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT
WRITTEN QUESTIONS WITH ANSWER
WRITTEN QUESTION No 2040/84 sheepmeat sector submitted by the French Government on 21 by Mr Louis Eyraud (S—F) December 1984. With reference to the particular proposals in this report raised by the Honourable Member the to the Commission of the European Communities Commission does not feel that the time is opportune for their (25 February 1985) introduction and therefore has not made any proposals on (87/C 270/01) them. The Commission does, however, point out that its report on the sheep sector to the Council due before October Subject: Problems facing sheepmeat producers 1988 has now been brought forward to July 1987. In this report the Commission intends to examine fully the 1. In view of the serious problems facing sheepmeat operation of the sector and make proposals for any changes producers (20% fall in income in certain areas), the French that may be judged necessary. Government has sent a memorandum to the Commission setting out various proposals, including four which it regards H OJNoC 151, 20. 6. 1985. as indispensable: — that reference should no longer be made to green rates but that the adjusted central rates be used, — reduction of imports from third countries, — negotiations in GATT on the unbinding of import duties on fresh or refrigerated meat, — elimination of the distortions of competition arising in WRITTEN QUESTION No 2713/85 particular from the fact that UK producers are granted a by Mr Dieter Rogalla (S—D) slaughter premium. to the Commission of the European Communities What stage has the Commission reached in its consideration (10 February 1986) of this memorandum and has it already come to any (87/C 270/02) conclusions?
2. In view of the serious distortions of competition Subject: Clearance and collection of import duties for existing on the market in sheepmeat between France and chartered boats from other Member States under Ireland on the one hand and the United Kingdom on the Greek law other, imports from third countries and the inadequacy of Community Regulations, it is vital to rectify the situation and harmonize the sheepmeat sector by revising the Regulation 1. What information does the Commission have on the governing the common organization of markets. Is such a simplified clearance procedure at Greek ports for boats review planned and, if so, when? chartered to private individuals, in particular as regards increased dues and general frontier checks?
2. Will it, if necessary, contact the Greek Government to Supplementary answer given by Mr Andriessen obtain the relevant information? on behalf of the Commission (12 May 1987) 3. Will it examine the information thus obtained from the viewpoint of the freedom to provide services and the Further to its answer of 17 April 1985 (]), the Commission application of the relevant provisions by Greece? If so, will it has completed its examination of the memorandum on the state its findings? No C 270/2 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87
4. Is it true that people are not allowed to sail between WRITTEN QUESTION No 1213/86 Greek ports unless they have a transit log? by Mrs Undine-Uta Bloch von Blottnitz (ARC—D) to the Commission of the European Communities 5. What is the significance in this respect of Greek Law No 438 of 1976, which clearly predates Greece's (2 September 1987) membership of the Community? (87/C 270/03)
Subject: Communication from the Commission concerning the Community's role as regards the safety of Supplementary answer given by Mr Clinton Davis nuclear installations and the protection of public on behalf of the Commission health (13 April 1987) The communication from the Commission (COM(83) 472 final) was submitted to the Council on 1 August 1983 and Further to its answer of 5 May 1986 (l), the Commission can was based on a resolution adopted by Parliament as long ago now inform the Honourable Member of the result of its as 20 November 1980. investigations. The matter dealt with in this communication is still topical. 1. The Commission is aware of the existence of a special Indeed it is becoming more and more important and urgent tax of 15% of the amount of charter money agreed in the with each nuclear plant that is commissioned. charter party, which has to be paid by persons representing owners of commercial tourist boats and craft under a foreign 1. Which of the measures put forward in the flag. communication on transfrontier cooperation on disaster prevention in the event of accidents in nuclear plants The special tax, according to the Greek authorities, is have been pursued since the communication was intended to be the counterpart of the fiscal requirements submitted? applying to operators of Greek flag boats and craft. The simplified clearance procedure and general frontier checks 2. The Commission originally organized groups of experts are features of the 'transit log' referred to in point 4 of the to look into the problems of emergency plans and the question. assessment of the effects of radioactive fallout on the aquatic environment. Have these groups been working 2. The Greek Government has been contacted to obtain on these matters? Where were the results published? the relevant information. 3. What action has the Council taken on the proposals 3. Operations between Greek ports by commercial tourist contained in the communication? boats and craft are forbidden under foreign flag, but may exceptionally be permitted under special licence if there is a shortage of such boats and craft under Greek flag. From the viewpoint of the freedom to provide services, no infringement by Greece can be established since the Council Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis has not yet adopted a Regulation to apply this principle to on behalf of the Commission cabotage. (19 March 1987) 4. The 'transit log' concerns Greek customs formalities to be fulfilled by foreign flag vessels entering Greek waters. The 1. The Commission's work in the field of transfrontier 'transit log' contains a description of all equipment on board emergency planning, subsequent to COM(83) 472 final, the ship, to be made once only upon entry in Greek waters largely consisted of reviews of related topics carried out by and thereby constituting a simplified clearing procedure. The groups of experts from the Member States. However, in the 'transit log', which is obligatory according to Ordonnance wake of the Chernobyl accident which demonstrated the 41 /1961, implementing Article of Law 1165 of 1918, will be inadequacy of certain aspects of emergency planning, the compared during frontier checks with the relevant Commission has taken further initiatives as indicated in equipment. COM(86) 434 final, entitled 'The development of Community measures for the application of Chapter III of the 5. Greek Law No 438 of 1976 contains inter alia Euratom Treaty Health and Safety': provisions on operations of commercial tourist boats and craft referred to above and cannot be considered an — The Communication to Council COM(87) 28 final, infringement of Article 59 of the EEC Treaty for the reasons concerns a permanent system for establishing limits for given in point 3. the radioactive contamination of drinking water and agricultural products in the case of nuclear accident. C1) OJ No C 233, 15. 9. 1986. — A proposal for a Council decision on a Community system of rapid exchange of information, in cases of abnormal levels of radioactivity or of a nuclear accident, 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/3
is in preparation. The Article 31 Group of Experts and by the application of dairy quotas. The already critical the Economic and Social Committee have been situation of many producers was suddenly made far worse by consulted. the application of penalties for overproduction under the quota arrangements. Does the Commission not consider that — A submission to the Council concerning mutual national or Community compensation should be paid to assistance in emergency situations is in preparation. small and medium-sized producers and particularly to young farmers who have recently started up? 2. The Commission has published the following reports relevant to emergency planning and resulting from studies carried out by expert groups: 2. Will the Commission acknowledge the failure of the dairy quotas policy introduced in 1984, which has not even — 'Aims and practices of transfrontier emergency planning managed to prevent further increases in butter and milk within the EC countries in case of an accident in a nuclear powder stocks? The actual effect of the application of quotas installation' (Doc. V/2138/86 e, f), which provides a has been to accelerate restructuring at producer and dairy guide for use in bilateral agreements. level, enabling 'dairy factories' to take over the production of small-scale producers who have gone out of business. Given — 'The technical basis for emergency planning and these circumstances, will the Commission launch a new dairy preparedness' (EUR 9623 EN 85), which describes policy which would penalize those really responsible for technical approaches used, relevant criteria and practices excessive surpluses and involve: taxation of 'dairy factories' and developments following the TM12 accident and (already proposed by the Commission), a halt to imports of which proposes an approach to harmonization. An New Zealand butter, a ban on the production of imitation updated report covering more recent developments is in milk products from imported soya and the improvement of preparation. export policies by the introduction of long-term contracts? — 'Radiological protection criteria for controlling doses to the public in the event of accidental releases of radioactive materials' (Doc. V/6290/82 e, f) covers criteria in 3. Is the Commission prepared to propose that the respect of sheltering, evacuation and/ or the use of iodine dismantling of the present dairy stocks should be financed tablets during the immediate emergency period. directly by the Member States, outside the Community budget, in proportion to their responsibility for the build-up of stocks? Regarding contamination of the aquatic environment, a report on 'The radiological exposure of the population in the Meuse Basin' formed the basis of a CEC Workshop held in Luxembourg in 1985. The proceedings of the workshop, incorporating the report, are being prepared for publication. Additionally, the expert group set up to consider the dispersion of radioactive contamination in the North-West Atlantic will produce a report in the near future. Answer given by Mr Andriessen on behalf of the Commission 3. The above work has been pursued by the Commission (8 May 1987) despite the fact that the Council failed to adopt the draft resolution appended to COM(83) 472 final.
1. Under the Community rules on the additional levy and the quota system in the milk sector there is already provision whereby special or additional quotas may be granted from national reserves to producers in certain specific situations, and in particular young farmers, producers who have drawn up milk production development plans and other producers practising farming as their main occupation. It is for the national authorities to work out in detail the rules and WRITTEN QUESTION No 1459/86 criteria for allocating these additional quotas by priority to the persons concerned. by Mrs Sylvie Le Roux (COM—F) to the Commission of the European Communities (26 September 1987) 2. The milk quota system has been a success in so far as (87/C 270/04) milk deliveries in the Community have been brought below the 1983 levels, but overall milk production still exceeds the level which can be absorbed by the internal and external markets. That is why intervention stocks are still rising, but if Subject: Supertax on dairy products the quota system had not been introduced, the rise would have been much greater. Other measures are necessary to 1. I recently spoke with a number of milk producers in my improve the market balance and prevent the accumulation of region and was able to gauge the extent of the damage caused excessive stocks. No C 270/4 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87
The Commission will continue to seek improvements to the WRITTEN QUESTION No 1518/86 Community export policy which are both compatible with by Mr Eisso Woltjer (S—NL) the financial possibilities and marketing potential and in line with its international undertakings; it is also endeavouring to to the Commission of the European Communities persuade the Council to take swift action on its proposal (1 October 1987) concerning the designation of imitation milk and milk (87/C 270/05) products (1). In its future proposals concerning imports of New Zealand butter the Commission will take account of the Council's recent statement to the effect that the special Subject: Exports of agricultural products to non- arrangements for access after 1988 must be examined in the Community countries light of the major difficulties besetting the Community butter market. The Netherlands Government has given the Netherlands parliament information on the volume of exports of agricultural products to small non-Community countries, namely Andorra, Gibraltar and Vatican City. From this The Commission considers, however, that although information it is clear that from the Netherlands alone the measures to expand outlets on both the internal and the volume of exports is large in relation to the size of the external markets could continue to improve the market countries concerned. Information was also given on the balance, action must also be taken to bring milk deliveries in export refunds and MCA involved. the Community down to a more realistic level. In this context, the Council decisions to introduce a scheme for the 1. Will the Commission provide a summary of exports of voluntary discontinuation of milk production and to reduce agricultural products from Community countries to the overall levels of quotas by 3 % in the next two years (2) non-Community enclaves? Will it provide a breakdown should lead to a further reduction of some 3 million tonnes in by Member State for the beef and veal, pigmeat and dairy milk deliveries. sectors, showing both the volume in kilograms and the amounts involved in refunds and MCA?
2. In what ways can the Commission monitor whether Furthermore, the Commission's recent proposals to the 3 products exported to non-Community enclaves are really Council on emergency action in the milk sector ( ) contain destined for these States and intended for their domestic measures designed to increase the dissuasive effect of the consumption? What is the Commission's experience with quota system and to ensure that the quantities of milk the monitoring procedures? delivered are more in line with the level of quotas. Lastly, in the Report to the Council concerning the application of the 3. Is the Commission aware of cases where exports to additional levy system in the milk sector (4), the Commission certain non-Community States were merely intended as proposed a series of measures the combined effect of which transit operations to other, Community or would be to reduce the quantities of milk collected by a non-Community countries? Do these cases involve further 6,5 million tonnes. improper use of export refunds? If so, how does the Commission intend to combat such developments in the future? If not, is the Commission acquiescing in the situation by considering exports to these countries as the 3. While recognizing the gravity of the stock situation, the CAP's 'Trojan horse' (the words of a member of Mr Council has just approved, on a proposal from the Andriessen's cabinet). Commission, a special additional programme for the disposal of old butter stocks in 1987 and 1988. The total cost of this additional disposal is assessed at 3 200 million ECU. 4. To what extent do the Member States comply with their obligations, as laid down for the beef and veal sector for This programme will be financed over four years from 1989. J Once stocks have been reduced as a result of the additional example in Regulation (EEC) No 1136/79 ( ), Article 5, disposal programme and the measures taken by the Council to inform the Commission of their imports of to control milk production, expenditure on public stocks can agricultural products? Would this also provide the be reduced and the cost of reimbursing Member States with Commission with the means of tracing the origin of their expenditure on the additional stock disposal imports? Does it not regard such monitoring as essential, programme can be gradually absorbed. in order to put a stop to a possible improper use of refunds?
(») OJ No C 111, 26. 4. 1984, p. 7; OJ No C 234, 16. 9. 1986, (>) OJNoL 141, 9. 6. 1979, p. 10. p. 2. (2) Regulations (EEC) No 1335/86 and (EEC) No 1336/86 of 6 May 1986 (OJ No L 119, pp. 19 and 21). (3) COM(86) 510 final, 11. 9. 1986. (4) COM(86) 645 final, 17. 11. 1986. Answer given by Mr Andriessen on behalf of the Commission (18 February 1987)
1. The Honourable Member will find below a table giving quantities of products in the three market sectors exported to 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/5
Andorra, Gibraltar and the Vatican City in 1985. The export Member States are empowered to require proof that shows to refunds involved are approximate figures, given the great their satisfaction that the products have actually been placed range of products within each sector for which different rates on the market in the non-member country of import. are applied throughout the year. Only two Member States are concerned with the granting of monetary compensatory The Member States inform the Commission of such cases. amounts: the Federal Republic of Germany and the No such cases relating to the three countries in question have Netherlands. been reported to the Commission.
As the same monetary coefficient was in force in both The following statistics may be of some relevance. The Member States the German mca's may be broadly deduced by population of Andorra is 41 600. The number of tourists in applying the percentage of mca's to refunds for the 1983 were around 10 000 000. The population of Gibraltar Netherlands, which is around 8 %, to the equivalent German is 28 400 and tourists average around 606 000 per year. figures.
4. Regulation (EEC) No 1736/75 on the external trade As the approximate amount of refund granted for the Federal statistics of the Community and statistics of trade between Republic of Germany for exports to these destinations is Member States (1) lays down that the origin of goods shall be 171 736 ECU, then the mca's granted in the Federal Republic declared. Statistical figures of imports into the EEC from of Germany may be said to be, using the abovementioned Andorra, Gibraltar and Vatican show that imports from percentage, around 13 739 ECU. such areas are negligible; for example 25 tonnes of milk products in 1985. 2 and 3. Where there is serious doubt as to the true destination of products, the competent authorities of the OJNoL 183, 14.7. 1975, p. 3.
EEC exports to Andorra, Gibraltar and the Vatican City, 1985
Exports to EEC products to Export refunds involved (tonnes) (ECU)
Andorra Gibraltar Vatican Andorra Gibraltar Vatican
Beef 1 629 398 544 2 443 500 597 000 816 000
Pigmeat 17 65 0 510 1 950 0
Fresh milk and cream 9 989 1480 0 908 260 134 870 0
Preserved milk and cream 996 727 0 793 587 190 128 0
Butter 3 426 206 0 5 183 881 311 698 0
Cheese and curd 4 556 418 238 3 045 934 421 674 323 316
Amount in Exporting country tonnes
Beef France Andorra 1 629
Ireland Gibraltar 307 Germany Gibraltar 62 Netherlands Gibraltar 14 UK Gibraltar 11 France Gibraltar 4
Netherlands Vatican 544
Pigmeat France Andorra 17
UK Gibraltar 32 Netherlands Gibraltar 25 Denmark Gibraltar 8 No C 270/6 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87
Amount in Exporting country tonnes
Fresh milk and cream France Andorra 9 603 Germany Andorra 272 Belgium / Luxembourg Andorra 112 UK Andorra 2
UK Gibraltar 868 Belgium / Luxembourg Gibraltar 511 Germany Gibraltar 86 France Gibraltar 13 Ireland Gibraltar 2
Preserved milk and cream France Andorra 904 Netherlands Andorra 56 UK Andorra 36
UK Gibraltar 587 Netherlands Gibraltar 97 France Gibraltar 24 Denmark Gibraltar 10 Germany Gibraltar 8 Ireland Gibraltar 1
Butter France Andorra 2 626 Netherlands Andorra 797 Denmark Andorra 3
UK Gibraltar 74 Ireland Gibraltar 62 Netherlands Gibraltar 61 Denmark Gibraltar 9
Cheese and curd France Andorra 2 452 Netherlands Andorra 2 009 Denmark Andorra 49 Germany Andorra 45 Italy Andorra 1
Netherlands Gibraltar 258 UK Gibraltar 124 Denmark Gibraltar 23 France Gibraltar 11 Ireland Gibraltar 2
Italy Vatican 95 Germany Vatican 72 Denmark Vatican 70 Netherlands Vatican 1 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/7
WRITTEN QUESTION No 1520/86 In its judgment of 27 August 1986, the Latium by Mr Ben Visser (S—NL) Administrative Court quashed the part of Circular No 4260 which provided for the permanent derogations, thereby to the Commission of the European Communities rendering them void. (13 October 1987) This judgment was confirmed by the Council of State on (87/C 270/06) 21 October 1986. This same Circular No 4260 contains provisions under Subject: Sunday ban on transport of perishable goods in which derogations can be requested from local authorities, Italy the application indicating in detail the route and the goods transported. The procedure by which derogations are 1. Is the Commission aware of the decision by the Italian granted by the prefecture, which is the same for Italian and Government of 28 August 1986 to introduce an immediate foreign carriers, has given rise to complaints from trade Sunday driving ban for lorries transporting perishable goods organizations. (under a controlled temperature)? The Italian authorities have indicated that they will take steps to simplify the procedure as much as possible. 2. Is it true that Italy is currently the only country in the EEC to have introduced such a ban? What is the Commission's view of this decision? Does it not agree that the ban makes the import and export of perishable goods impossible in practice?
3. What is the Commission's view of the apparently WRITTEN QUESTION No 1581/86 customary practice of the Italian Government (l) of by Mr Stephen Hughes (S—GB) announcing decision which enter into force immediately to the Commission of the European Communities or within a few days, thus allowing foreign transport undertakings no time to take appropriate action? (17 October 1987) (87/C 270/07) 4. Is the Commission prepared to advocate that in future a reasonable period of time must elapse between the Subject: Origin of goods announcement of government decisions and their entry into force? If so, what measures does it have in mind? Does it take The Commission has promulgated for a number of products the view that if it intends to take drastic measures which specific regulations to determine their origin; whereas for affect road transport, a government should first consult the products such as radio and television receivers and Commission? tape-recorders the Commission has taken the view that assembly operations do not generally constitute in J ( ) Cf., for example, the road transport provisions on exceptional themselves an important stage of manufacture and loads of 1 April 1985; see Written Question No 592/85 (OJ No consequently the assembled products do not acquire the C 272, 23. 10. 1985, p. 7). origin of the country where they were assembled.
However, the Commission has said it might be otherwise in the case, for example, of machines requiring strict control of Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis parts or where assembly of all the components parts is on behalf of the Commission involved. (4 June 1987) Could the Commission please state to what extent (in approximate percentage terms) a manufacturer could use 1. This measure taken by Italy has been brought to the components in a kit or semi- or sub-assembled form and yet Commission's attention by other complainants. still be able to claim that his product has the country of origin where the assembly took place, on the ground that the assembly of all the component parts of the machine is 2. Italy is indeed the only Member State which prohibits involved? Sunday driving by lorries without any exception for perishables.
However, the Commission has gathered the following Answer given by Lord Cockfield information from the Italian authorities: on behalf of the Commission The relevant provisions are contained in Circular No 4260 of (15 April 1987) 13 December 1985, which prohibits heavy vehicles from driving on Sutardays, Sundays and public holidays. The general (non-preferential) rules of origin are relevant in This circular expressly provides for permanent derogations the case of importations of goods into the Community for vehicles, whether laden or unladen, which are fitted with particularly where they are subject to measures of fixed refrigeration or isothermal equipment for foodstuffs, commercial policy such as quantitative restrictions, measures and for tankers for transporting liquids for human under Council Regulation (EEC) No 288/82 on common consumption or fuel. rules for import (*), or anti-dumping duties. No C 270/8 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87
In intra-Community trade the question of origin is normally Is it aware that because of this, smaller businesses, which so not pertinent, because of the principle of free circulation of far have had to survive without special support, have been goods within the Community. The question whether goods brought to the brink of bankruptcy? manufactured or assembled in the Community have acquired 'Community origin' can be important in application of Article 115 of the Treaty where the Commission authorizes a Is the Commission aware of the consequences for employment both in this sector and in supply industries and Member State to protect its market against goods originating the further repercussion for the Community in general, in one or more specific third countries and which are in free especially in the steel sector? circulation in another Member State.
The country of origin for goods is determined on the basis of Can the Commission summarize the various support Council Regulation (EEC) No 802/68 of 27 June 1968 on measures employed in the Member States and say whether the common definition of the concept of the origin of they have been notified to the Commission or approved by goods (2). Its Article 5 states that where two or more the Commission? countries are involved in the manufacture of a product, the country of origin is that in which the last substantial process At the same time, can the Commission state whether it is true or operation that is economically justified was performed, that in the United Kingdom 35 % of the cost of building new having been carried out in an undertaking equipped for the ships is paid by the State? purpose, and resulting in a manufacture of a new product or representing an important stage of manufacture. These What measures does the Commission intend to take to provisions do not contain the criterion of added value. restore competitive conditions, including possible measures to combat substantial surplus capacity in this sector? In those cases of assembly where the multiplicity of the operations to be carried out makes it difficult to determine 0) Cf. NRC-Handelsblad of 24 September 1986. the origin on the basis of a technical test, the added-value concept has to be used instead. The Commission has adopted regulations which apply Article 5 of Regulation (EEC) No 802/68 in this manner (3) to radio and television receivers and for tape-recorders. Answer given by Mr Sutherland The added-value criteria and the percentage laid down in the on behalf of the Commission said Regulations do not constitute a general rule, but apply (11 June 1987) only to the products specifically concerned. If the adoption of an added-value rule seems necessary for other goods the individual circumstances of each case would need to be taken The Commission has always paid close attention to national into account and therefore any statement as to a general aid to shipbuilding. Since 1969 such aid has been percentage level is not possible. coordinated by Council Directives, of which the Fifth (*) (which expired on 31 December 1986) was designed to (M OJ No L 35, 9. 2. 1982, p. 1. 2 enable shipbuilders to restructure their industry and build ( ) OJNoL 148,28.6. 1968, p. 1. vessels without relying on aid. Despite the efforts by all (3) Commission Regulation (EEC) No 2632/70 on determining the origin of radio and television receivers (OJ No L 279, Member States to adapt their production capacity to 24. 12. 1970, p. 35). Commission Regulation (EEC) No demand, the acute crisis which the industry has experienced 861/71 on determining the origin of tape-recorders (OJ No L 95, for several years, coupled with more intense competition 28.4. 1971, p. 11). from the Far East, has made it impossible to achieve that objective.
While it is true that large Community shipyards receive a greater volume of direct aid than small ones, the Commission has found that through indirect aid, notably to shipbuilders, all yards can receive government assistance; and although some small yards are faced with bankruptcy, the fact is that the crisis is affecting the market for large vessels as well as WRITTEN QUESTION No 1610/86 small ones. by Mr Florus Wijsenbeek (LDR—NL) to the Commission of the European Communities The Commission, aware that the prices quoted by (17 October 1987) Far-Eastern shipbuilding countries no longer allowed Community shipyards to supply vessels at competitive prices, (87/C 270/08) found that it was impossible to abolish aid to this industry. Subject: Support for shipbuilding (x) Early in 1986, therefore, it evolved a new strategy (2) aimed Is the Commission aware of the fact that massive support is at establishing a single aid ceiling for all Member States, to still being given by various Member States? cover all forms of aid. 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/9
On this basis, a Sixth Directive (3) was adopted by the shown that the subject in question is both wide-ranging and Council on 27 January 1987, Parliament having been complex and that further, more detailed investigations informed and consulted. The Sixth Directive was the subject involving several departments are required. of a report by Miss Joyce Quin (4), which was submitted to Parliament at its plenary session in December 1986. The Commission will of course notify the Honourable Member of its findings once those investigations have been The single aid ceiling is currently set at 28 % of a vessel's completed. contract value.
To deal with the acute problems created by the crisis in shipbuilding, the Commission has proposed that its aid policy should be backed up by specific measures concerning the industrial, social and regional aspects of the industry (5). WRITTEN QUESTION No 1713/86 The document concerned will be supplemented with a fuller description of the procedures for implementing the measures by Mr Spiridon Kolokotronis (S—GR) to be taken; it will be sent shortly to the Council and to the Commission of the European Communities Parliament. (30 October 1986) (87/C 270/10) A complete inventory of the aid granted to shipbuilding in each of the Member States was recently compiled by the Commission. The Sixth Directive lays down that advance Subject: Operation of nuclear power plants in countries notification of all programmes applied from 1 January 1987 bordering on Community Member States must be given to the Commission. The Fifth Directive contained a similar obligation. Will the Commission submit to the Council a proposal for a Directive on the combating of problems arising from the (') OJ No L 137, 23. 5. 1981, as amended by Council Directive existence and operation of nuclear power plants in 85/2/EEC (OJ No L 2, 3. 1. 1985, p. 13). neighbouring countries to Member States of the European 2 ( ) COM(86) 324 final. Community? (3) Directive 87/167/EEC (OJ No L 69, 12. 3. 1987). (4) PE 109.291/A/fin. (5) COM(86) 553 final.
Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis on behalf of the Commission (6 July 1987)
The safety of nuclear installations is governed at Community level by the Council Directive laying down the basic safety WRITTEN QUESTION No 1652/86 standards for the health protection of the general public and workers against the dangers of ionizing radiation (J) which by Mr Christopher Jackson (ED—GB) the Member States are required to incorporate in their to the Commission of the European Communities national laws. (22 October 1987) Furthermore, Article 37 of the Euratom Treaty obliges the (87/C 270/09) Member States to provide the Commission with general data relating to any plan for the discharge of radioactive effluents in whatever form as will make it possible to determine Subject: Funding for cross frontier checks on food whether the implementation of such plan is liable to result in the radioactive contamination of the water, soil or airspace Can the C ommission state whether the cost of frontier checks of another Member State. The Commission delivers its of a veterinary and public health nature on food and animals opinion after consulting the group of experts which is within the European Community is normally borne by competent in this regard. national authorities? In which countries is the cost borne in part by local authorities? In order to cope with certain problems that may arise in the event of an accident in nuclear power stations located in frontier areas, a number of Member States have concluded bilateral agreements with other Member States or with neighbouring non-Community countries. The Commission Answer given by Mr Andriessen recently published a document (2) on 'The aims and practices on behalf of the Commission of transfrontier emergency planning within the European (1 July 1987) Community countries in case of an accident in a nuclear installation'.
The research which the Commission has carried out with a The Honourable Member will understand that the view to answering the Honourable Member's questions has Community Directives are not applicable in non-Community NoC 270/10 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87 countries. However, the Commission will continue to push The CITES guidelines for transport are currently being for the strictest possible safety standards at international reviewed by a number of CITES working groups, among level, in particular within, the framework of the other things with the overall intent to propose improvements International Atomic Agency. to the IATA Live Animals Regulations to better reflect CITES concerns and to prepare comparable guidelines for (') Directive 80/836/Euratom (OJ No L. 246, 17. 9. 1980); road, rail and marine transport. Directive 84/467/Euratom (OJ No L 265, 5. 10. 1984). (2) Doc. V/2138/86. 2 and 3. The Commission is not in a position to control application of the provisions laid down by IATA or the Council of Europe, and has not laid down in the Community regulation on the implementation of the CITES Convention the CITES guidelines for transport. As far as Community WRITTEN QUESTION No 1751/86 rules are concerned the Commission scrutinizes the measures by Mr Bryan Cassidy (ED—GB) taken by the Member States to ensure that they fulfil the to the Commission of the European Communities obligations arising from Community rules. In general the Commission has found that the Member States have fulfilled (30 October 1986) their obligations in this respect. When this has not been the (87/C 270/11) case the Commission has not hesitated to take steps, as laid down in the Treaty, to ensure the respect of Community law. Subject: Trade in wild animals The day-to-day application of these provisions as regards transport to and from EEC Member States is the When there is trade in wild animals: responsibility of the competent authorities of Member States. However, the Commission has, and will continue, to 1. Are there any international or EEC provisions investigate complaints and allegations which indicate that concerning the conditions under which such animals are Community rules have not been observed. transported? (>) OJ No L 200, 8. 8. 1977, p. 10. 2. If there are, is the Commission satisfied that these (2) OJ No L 150, 6. 6. 1981, p. 1. provisions are being observed as regards transport to and from EEC Member States?
3. If not, what action does the Commission propose to take?
Answer given by Mr Andriessen on behalf of the Commission WRITTEN QUESTION No 1755/86 (27 January 1987) by Mr Dieter Rogalla (S—D) to the Commission of the European Communities 1. Yes. On 18 July 1986 the Council adopted Directive (30 October 1986) 77/489/EEC on the protection of animals during international transport (J). This Directive applies not only to (87/C 270/12) domestic animals but also to other mammals and birds and to cold-blooded animals. It lays down conditions to protect Subject: Combating smuggling animals in international transport by land, sea or air. On 12 May 1981 the Council adopted, in addition, Directive 81/389/EEC establishing measures necessary for the 1. What statistics does the Commission receive from the implementation of Directive 77/489/EEC on the protection individual Member States on smuggling activities, i.e. of animals during international transport (2). movements of goods in excess of permitted amounts and in violation of Community law, with details of offenders, and is A similar field is also covered by the work carried out under it prepared if necessary to ask for statistics of this kind in the auspices of the Council of Europe. This is found in the future and to make these available to the European form of the European Convention for the protection of Parliament or to the public? animals during international transport. 2. When offenders are detected, do the various Member Other international provisions are also laid down by the States impose fines, how have these developed over the last work of organizations such as IATA (International Air 10 years, and is it true that, for example, for highly taxed Transport Association). goods such as cigarettes, spirits, diesel fuel, the amounts Since 1980, the Convention on International Trade in confiscated or on which tax has subsequently had to be paid Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) have been steadily falling? disposes of recommended guidelines for transport and preparation for shipment of live wild animals and plants and 3. How does the Commission view the observation by a more recently a recommendation for a reporting system on West German economic institute, known as the Kieler animals stressed during transport was adopted by the Kreis (*), that the ratio of legal to illegal transfers of goods is Conference of the Parties to CITES. so low that illegal dealings are negligible? 8- 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/11
4. Does the Commission agree that the figure given by this authorities, and in particular for joint investigations in third economic institute (DM 12,5 million) for charges levied on countries, especially where cases of smuggling have smuggled goods in the Federal Republic of Germany in 1985 ramifications in several Member States. appears minute compared with the normal revenue from (J) OJ No L 144, 2. 6. 1981, p. 1. border levies in the same year (some DM 44 000 million) and 2 is out of all proportion to the costs of the staff employed in ( ) OJNoC267,18. 10. 1985,p. 6andOJNoC 181,19. 7. 1986, p. 7. collecting these amounts?
5. Has the Commission, in its work on the creation of a customs union and in the light of the risk from terrorists, given any thought to how the officials available could be best used to protect citizens, and what recommendations has it WRITTEN QUESTION No 1765/86 made to the Member States, or does it intend to make? by Mr Andrew Pearce (ED—GB) to the Commission of the European Communities (') Published in the Kieler Kreisnachrichten No 8/1986. (6 November 1986) (87/C 270/13)
Subject: Customs formalities when entering and leaving Spain
Will the Commission make enquiries of the Spanish authorities as to the nature of the two sets of forms to be completed in duplicate by passengers on sleeping cars coming Answer given by Lord Cockfield into Spain from France or leaving Spain travelling into France on behalf of the Commission and will it comment on the legality of these procedures, (5 February 1987) bearing in mind the answer given on 4 February 1982 by Commissioner Narjes to Written Question No 1353/81 by Mr Bangemann (x)? i1) OJ No C 65, 15. 3. 1982, p. 11. 1 and 2. Pursuant to Article 14 of Regulation (EEC) No 1468/81 on mutual assistance (!), Member States are required to inform the Commission of individual cases of smuggling that are of general interest given the type of goods Answer given by Lord Cockfield smuggled or the methods or processes of smuggling used. on behalf of the Commission They are not, however, required to report fully on all cases of smuggling, to supply relevant statistics or to provide details (26 March 1987) of penalties imposed. The Commission has made inquiries with the Spanish authorities about the passenger control forms referred to in 3 to 5. Criminological investigations have shown that, the Honourable Member's question. It is informed that it is generally speaking, no reliable estimate can be made of the the French authorities who impose the requirement to scale of undetected crime. The Commission, therefore, is complete forms and not the Spanish authorities. The purpose unable to comment on the observation of the Kieler Kreis. of the forms is said to be to avoid waking passengers in the middle of the night.
Nevertheless, as the Commission has already stated in its For the rest, the Commission regards effective measures to answer to Written Question Nos 1528/80 by Mr Seefeld (*) combat smuggling as being especially important precisely in and 1353/81 by Mr Bangemann and to Oral Question No order to maintain or reduce further the ratio of illegal to legal H-346/81 by Mr Seefeld (2), it considers that an obligation transactions. It is determined, therefore, to continue efforts on nationals of the Member States of the Community to fill in to improve cooperation with Member States in this field. It passenger control forms is incompatible with the EEC has consistently called for the removal by 1992 of all checks Treaty. Any formality which requires a national of one on persons and goods at the Community's internal frontiers, Member State entering another Member State to do more as provided for in Article 13 of the Single European Act; than simply present a passport or identity card is contrary to however, with the establishment of a Community-wide Community law. internal market free from frontiers, increased supervision at the Community's external frontiers is all the more pressing. As the Commission stated in its answer to Written Question In this connection, attention in drawn to the Commission No 1353/81 referred to above, it considers that only those proposal amending Regulation (EEC) No 1468/81 (2) that is travellers transporting goods which exceed in value or currently before the Council and that provides for close quantity the allowances in force should be required to make a cooperation between the Commission and national customs declaration. A traveller who does not complete a No C 270/12 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87 form should be regarded as having made the tacit declaration and means to strengthen these industries in the same way as provided for by Article 7a of Council Directive 69/169 /EEC others, particularly in the context of the completion of the of 28 May 1969 (3), inserted by Council Directive internal market and the development of high-technology 72/230/EEC of 12 June 1972 (4). industries in the Community.
(») OJ No C 63, 23. 3. 1981. 2 3. Specifically as regards public procurement, the ( ) Debates of the European Parliament No 1-274 (September Commission has already stated in the White Paper 1981). 3 (paragraph 84), that it will open discussions with Member ( ) OJ NoL 133, 4. 6. 1969, p. 6. (4) OJ No L 139, 17. 6. 1972, p. 28. States and their awarding entities on the application of Community law to public procurement in a number of sectors, including defense.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 1900/86 WRITTEN QUESTION No 1943/86 by Mrs Boserup (COM—DK) by Mr Kenneth Collins (S—GB) to the Commission of the European Communities to the Commission of the European Communities (13 November 1986) (21 November 1986) (87/C 270/14) (87/C 270/15)
Subject: The Commission's study of arms procurement and Subject: Implementation of the Drinking Water Directive the arms industry in the European Community Can the Commission say how many countries in the During the debate in the European Parliament on Tuesday, Community have implemented the Directive relating to the 21 October 1986 on the subject of arms control and quality of water intended for human consumption (the disarmament, the Commissioner, Lord Cockfield, stressed Drinking Water Directive) 80/778/EEC 0)? Is it that the Community does not have powers in the area of furthermore aware of the progress that has been made by any defence policy. It nonetheless emerged from Lord Cockfield's countries which did not meet the original date by which the speech that the Commission is now gathering information on Directive was due to come into force in July 1985 towards public arms procurement and its effects on industrial policy full implementation and can it say when full implementation concerning the Community's arms industry. How can the is likely to take place throughout the Community? Commission justify this activity which, in the Commission's own view, concerns an area which falls outside the Treaty, H OJ No L 229, 30. 8. 1980, p. 11. and will the Commission explain its action by stating the purposes for which the study is to be used and stating the results which are obtained from it, and also ensure that the reports which are based on the studies are published? WRITTEN QUESTION No 1974/86 by Mr Hugh Mc Mahon (S—GB) to the Commission of the European Communities (24 November 1986) Answer given by Mr Narjes (87/C 270/16) on behalf of the Commission
(3 June 1987) Subject: Water Supply Directive
1. Even though Community competence does not extend Can the Commission inform the House of the progress made to defence policy as such, the provisions of the Treaty do in each Member State on the implementation of the Directive apply to goods of a military as well as civil nature. This is 80/778/EEC and what action it proposes to take? confirmed by Articles 223 and 224 of the Treaty which entitle Member States to take measures 'connected with the production of or trade in arms, munitions or war materials', and which require Member States to consult each other to Joint answer to Written Question Nos 1943/86 and prevent the functioning of the common market being affected 1974/86 by Mr Clinton Davis by measures taken in times of serious internal disturbances, (27 May 1987) war or serious international tension.
2. Given the importance of defence-related industries to Two principal time limits were set for implementation of the European economy, the Commission will examine ways Council Directive 80/778/EEC: 17 July 1982 for bringing 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/13 into force the national legislation required (Article 18) and 17 already signed an agreement with the USA to study the July 1985 for full implementation (Article 19). possibility of extending the American 'Star Wars' programme to Europe. According to the same sources, Italy is likely to The action taken by the Commission since 17 July 1982 has accept a similar proposal to participate in this programme. In persuaded four Member States (Luxembourg, Italy, the view of the fact that these three countries are Member States Netherlands and Greece) to introduce the legislation required of the European Community, would the Commission by the E)irective. agree:
The Commission has decided to initiate infringement 1. that any attempt of this kind to involve EEC Member procedures against five other Member States (Belgium, States in the nuclear arms race poses a direct threat to all Denmark, Federal Republic of Germany, France and Ireland) European countries, since it necessarily implies violating for failure to incorporate the Directive into their national one of the major arms control agreements, namely the legislation. 1972 Anti-Ballistic Missile Agreement;
As regards full implementation of the Directive, immediately 2. that the participation of Member States in the 'Star Wars' after the 17 July 1985 time limit, the Commission started to programme will have devastating consequences for the check how effectively the provisions laid down in the future of research in the EEC, notably in the field of high Directive were being enforced in the Member States. First, in technology, because the excessive cost of this programme July 1985 it sent the Member States a questionnaire on the will inevitably lead to the massive diversion of high steps taken to implement the Directive, and in particular technology resources to the military sector, and, Articles 9, 10 and 20. Then in July 1986 the Commission furthermore, that research initiatives launched by the convened a meeting of national experts in Brussels to discuss EEC or within a broader framework, such as EUREKA, the progress made with implementing the Directive. will be undermined and weakened by the switch of funds Together, these steps and the communications received by and scientific and research personnel to the SDI the Commission from the Member States revealed that programme; several Member States had granted exemptions, some (the United Kingdom, Denmark and the Federal Republic of 3. that involvement in the 'Star Wars' programme by EEC Germany) under Article 9 (1) (a) of the Directive and one Member States will give the USA excessive influence over other (Italy) under Article 10. To date only the United European defence policy and siphon off a considerable Kingdom has invoked the procedure provided for in Article part of the EEC's research potential to a programme 20 (in respect of lead and small water distributors). entirely controlled by the USA, which will also stand to benefit most from the results of such a programme; The Commission has instituted infringement procedures against the United Kingdom after receiving complaints about 4. that it is totally absurd that three EEC countries — and a number of limit values being exceeded. thus, inevitably, the other EEC Member States as well — should become officially involved in an enterprise which The Commission is now examining the methods chosen by no one can guarantee will succeed, since 7 000 American the Member States to enforce all the provisions of the scientists, including 15 Nobel prizewinners, and 110 Directive on their territory and will continue with the work University Research Institutes have let it be known that which it has been carrying out in this connection since the they do not believe in the 'Star Wars' programme and Directive was adopted. have refused to lend their cooperation?
Answer given by Mr Narjes on behalf of the Commission (7 August 1987)
WRITTEN QUESTION No 2012/86 by Mr Vassilis Ephremidis, Mr Dimitrios Adamou and Mr The EC Treaties confer no powers on the Commission on Alexandros Alavanos (COM—GR) issues related to arms control agreements like those mentioned by the Honourable Members. to the Commission of the European Communities
(2 December 1986) The Commission's knowledge of the agreements between (87/C 270/17) Member States and the US Government as to SDI is limited to press reports. However, the Commission has no reason at present to believe that these agreements will have any adverse Subject: Participation of EEC Member States in the 'Star implications for the industrial, technical or research policy of Wars' programme the Community.
According to press reports and official announcements, the United Kingdom and the Federal Republic of Germany have No C 270/14 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87
WRITTEN QUESTION No 2017/86 alerted at the time when the addressee received the request for by Mr George Patterson (ED—GB) payment it would have been able to ask the Belgian authorities to ensure delivery in compliance with the relevant to the Commission of the European Communities Community provisions. (28 November 1986) (87/C 270/18) This case and the Commission's views will be communicated to the authorities of the Member States concerned, urging them to ensure that their administrative services are familiar Subject: Customs duty on books posted within the EEC with Community measures aimed at facilitating free movement of goods and that they apply these measures Two books worth three pounds were sent from the UK to correctly. Belgium on 30 December in time for a birthday on 13 January 1986. They were correctly stamped. Six weeks later, the Brussels post delivered the parcel and demanded the equivalent of £ 7 in customs duty on the books. The recipient refused to pay and asked for the books to be returned to the sender in the UK. Five months later, on 16 July, the books were returned and the UK post requested £ 13,50 for WRITTEN QUESTION No 2018/86 delivery. by Mr George Patterson (ED—GB) Leaving aside the extraordinarily long delays in the British to the Commission of the European Communities and Belgian postal services, can the Commission justify the (28 November 1986) levying of customs duty at a rate of more than twice the actual (87/C 270/19) value of the books sent as a gift? Furthermore, how can a charge of £ 13,50 be made for delivery when a stamp charge had already been paid for the original delivery of the parcel Subject: Small gift parcels sent across the Community six months previously? Will the Commission state what steps it envisages taking to ensure that the citizens of Europe who A VAT charge of £ 20 was made on a sweater knitted by a wish to send gifts to friends in other Member States are not British woman and sent to her son working in France. The unnecessarily burdened by extra charges and bureaucratic value of the wool was only £ 47 to buy, but the estimated procedures? value of the knitted garment was over £ 90, exceeding the limit for the value of small consignments, and the VAT charge was therefore made, correctly according to the current regulations.
If the same sweater had been knitted in London and sent to a Answer given by Lord Cockfield member of the family in Edinburgh, or knitted in Boston, on behalf of the Commission USA and sent to someone in Washington, DC, no charges (28 January 1987) would be made. How can an internal market across Europe be justified, if members of the same family working or residing in different Member States of the Community are It seems clear that a mistake was made in this case. There is, unable to send gifts to each other without being taxed? of course, no customs duty on Community goods sent from one Member State to another (except for some residual duties What steps is the Commission taking, in accordance with in consignments involving Spain or Portugal). Value added the aim of achieving a People's Europe, to get rid of tax may be payable on such goods, but the parcel described in such unnecessary burdens on individuals, which are the Honourable Member's question should have benefited incomprehensible to the citizens of the Community? from the tax relief applicable under Community law to small consignments with no commercial character. The amount of 'duty' allegedly demanded is so high that simple error seems the only possible explanation. Answer given by Lord Cockfield on behalf of the Commission It is possible that the sender of the parcel or the British postal authorities failed to ensure that the parcel bore the green label (14 May 1987) CI, correctly completed, on which the sender makes a simple declaration indicating entitlement to the relief. Alternatively, The Commission agrees with the Honourable Member that, the Belgian postal authorities may have overlooked the in a genuine internal market, residents of one Member State existence of such a declaration. In any case, if the addressee ought to be able to send small consignments to residents of had insisted on his right to receive the parcel free of charge, another Member State without incurring any additional tax an inspection would no doubt have shown entitlement to charge. relief. In this connection, the Commission has already secured the The charges made for returning it to the sender would clearly Council's approval for the abolition of certain postal fees for seem to be disproportionate. Had the Commission been customs presentation (*). 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/15
However, under present Community rules in the tax field, — funding problems: is the own contribution required too Member States may levy on importation the value added tax high for small undertakings in view of the competitive and excise duty chargeable on domestic products where the character of the ESPRIT programme? goods contained in small consignments are worth more than — unsuitability of small undertakings to carry out the 100 ECU. requirements of the ESPRIT programme?
Even so, Member States are required to comply with the prohibition of double taxation arising from the Schul judgments where the products have a value exceeding the allowance and are thus chargeable to VAT in the Member Answer given by Mr Narjes State of importation (2). In the case referred to by the on behalf of the Commission Honourable Member, it would seem though that the amount (25 May 1987) of VAT paid in the United Kingdom on the purchase of the wool would give rise to only a small reduction in the amount of tax that would have to be charged when the knitted wool 1. The paragraph referred to in the question should be entered France. interpreted to mean that 57 % of ESPRIT projects include the participation of at least one SME. It should be pointed out that, in 1985, the Commission Full details on the participation are supplied in the recent presented to the European Council a White Paper on communication from the Commission to the Council (*). completion of the internal market (3), which provides for the abolition of tax frontiers by 31 December 1992. Once tax The distribution of the SME projects over the different areas frontiers have been removed, it will no longer be necessary to of the ESPRIT programme is variable: 50 % or more in four charge tax at frontiers and individuals will be able to send areas, but only 32,6 % in microelectronics. The part of the goods contained in small consignments to another Member work carried out by SMEs reaches 25 % in 60 % of the State free from any restrictions. projects. In the end, as the European Parliament already (!) Council Regulation (EEC) No 1797/86 (OJ No L 157, noted before, 20 % of the ESPRIT budget go to SMEs, 3 % of 12. 6. 1986). which by way of subcontracting. Of course, these SMEs have (2) Commission communication on the Schul judgments (OJ No access to the results of all projects in which they participate; C 13, 21. 1. 1986). these projects are worth 55% of the total value of the (3) COM(85) 310 final. programme.
2. The Commission does not publish financial details concerning specific companies. However, since the question apparently aims at large companies and their participation in ESPRIT, data concerning large companies in general can easily be given. Currently 49 companies with more than 5 000 employees participate in the programme. These include companies from user industries. These 49 companies WRITTEN QUESTION No 2263/86 receive 60 % of the ESPRIT funding. This is obviously less by Mr Alman Metten (S—NL) than these companies' share of the total European R&D work in information technology. to the Commission of the European Communities (12 January 1987) 3. The Commission does not regard the current level of (87/C 270/20) participation by SMEs in the ESPRIT activities as small. In total, the level of participation of small and medium-sized companies is relatively high and reflects the high level of Subject: Participation of small and medium-sized interest of European industry in ESPRIT. It is essential that enterprises in ESPRIT their high level of participation be maintained and enhanced in the future course of the programme. 1. Do I correctly conclude from the Commission's statements in paragraph 4.3.2 (role of SMEs) of COM(86) However, the Commission is constantly concerned in 269 that SMEs carry out between 8 and 13 % of the activities improve the general and administrative conditions for the under the ESPRIT programme? participation of SMEs and, in particular, the dissemination of information in the programme. 2. Can the Commission say what proportion of ESPRIT activities is carried out by the following undertakings: GEC, Concerning possible financial problems, the cost-sharing ICL, Plessey; Siemens, AEG, Nixdorf; Thomson-CSF, CGE, principle on a 50/50 basis has proven to be a well-balanced Bull; Philips? and broadly accepted instrument. The Commission does therefore not intend to deviate from this principle. The benefits of access to results generated by other participants, 3. Is the small part played by SMEs in ESPRIT activities as well as the potential Community-wide market perspectives attributable to: which such cooperation opens up, add to the attractiveness — insufficient familiarity with the programme and the of ESPRIT and represent a significant complement to the relevant application procedures, financial contribution. No C 270/16 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87
It is furthermore not the case that the tasks set in ESPRIT are 1. What were the technical problems? not suited for small firms. SMEs participate in all five R&D areas of the programme substantially, in large projects as 2. Were repairs carried out or not? well as in small projects. 3. What repairs were carried out? (') COM(86) 687 final, 8 December 1986, Chapter 7. (') OJ No C 299, 24. 11. 1986, p. 23.
Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis on behalf of the Commission WRITTEN QUESTION No 2288/86 (15 May 1987) by Mr Francois Roelants du Vivier (ARC—B) to the Commission of the European Communities Member States are not required to supply the Commission with technical data of the type requested. (12 January 1987) (87/C 270/21) However, for France, such information is available in the 'Bulletin sur la Surete des Installations Nucleases' published Subject: Chemical accident in Varna, Bulgaria every two months by the Ministere de l'lndustries, des PTT et du Tourisme. Since November 1986 there have been reports in the press The Honourable Member will find a description of the events concerning a very serious chemical accident in Varna, at Paluel in the 1985 issues. Bulgaria, which is alleged to have caused 17 deaths and left 19 people injured.
Will the Commission provide all the information at its disposal concerning this accident and say what lessons it has drawn from it? WRITTEN QUESTION No 2301/86 by Mr Hans Poetschki (PPE—D) to the Commission of the European Communities Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis on behalf of the Commission (14 January 1987) (26 May 1987) (87/C 270/23)
Subject: Single European Act, Article 130 A, achievement The Commission has been informed through the press of this of economic and social cohesion accident which occurred in Bulgaria in November 1986. The accident occurred in an industrial installation processing How does the Commission see the future division of chlorine, vinylchloride, polivinylchloride and nitrogen and responsibilities between the Member States and the phosphate fertilizers. Commission in implementing Article 130 A of the Single European Act? The Commission does not dispose of any information which would lead it to conclude that this accident had any 1. In the Commission's view, what aspects of general transboundary consequences which might affect the territory economic policy should be dealt with under the regional of the Community. structural policies of the Member States to achieve the objectives set out in Article 130 A?
2. What role have the Community's structural policies and financial instruments to play in achieving these goals and what principles should govern their use? WRITTEN QUESTION No 2294/86 by Mrs Undine-Uta Bloch von Blottnitz (ARC—D) to the Commission of the European Communities Answer given by Mr Varfis on behalf of the Commission (14 January 1987) (10 June 1987) (87/C 270/22) In line with Article 130 B incorporated into the EEC Treaty Subject: Repair work at the Paluel nuclear power station in by the Single Act, the strengthening of the Community's France economic and social cohesion as a means of promoting its harmonious development necessitates action on three In answer to my Written Question No 2911/85 i1), the fronts: Commission says that a number of technical problems occurred during the initial operating period of the Paluel — Member States must conduct and coordinate their units, which therefore had to be shut down on several economic policies in such a way as to attain the objectives occasions for operational reasons. of cohesion, 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/17
— implementation of the common policies and of the 3. Has the Commission encountered difficulties in internal market must take into account those objectives implementing its decisions pursuant to Article 92 of the and contribute to their achievement, EEC Treaty in the Member States and, if so, in which Member States? — the Community must support the achievement of those objectives by the action it takes through the structural Funds, the EIB and the other existing financial instruments. Answer given by Mr Sutherland on behalf of the Commission With regard to the European Regional Development Fund in (21 May 1987) particular, Article 130 C provides as follows: 'The European Regional Development Fund is intended to help redress the 1 and 2. The Commission would refer the Honourable principal regional imbalances in the Community through Member to the annual report on competition policy, which is participating in the development (...) of regions (. . .) examined each year by the European Parliament. lagging behind and in the conversion of declining industrial regions'. 3. The application of State aid rules of the EEC Treaty and the execution of the Commission's policy in this area is 1. It is clear from the above that (i) structural measures not an easy matter. As examination of the Commission's taken by the Community supplement those taken by activities over the years shows, particularly examination of Member States, to which falls the prime responsibility the annual reports on competition policy, it may be for the structural effort needed and for linking it to their considered that the Commission is achieving a high degree of economic policies as coordinated at Community level, success in this area. and (ii) that the Commission will ensure that priority is given to Community assistance operations which enhance the impact of national measures.
2. In the Commission's view, the Community shall provide WRITTEN QUESTION No 2318/86 structural assistance through its financial instruments in partnership with the Member States and regions by Mr Carlos Robles Piquer (ED—E) concerned. The broad lines of this new approach to the Commission of the European Communities regarding the principles and content of such structural (14 January 1987) assistance are set out in the Commission communication 'Making a success of the Single Act — a new frontier for (87/C 270/25) Europe' (*). Subject: Adaptation of the advertising market to 'television (') COM87) 100 final. without frontiers' There is no doubt that one of the most spectacular changes taking place in technology at the present moment involves the world of television and its increasingly advanced broadcasting methods. In addition to the traditional methods, cable television, satellite television, high definition and digital television are* now becoming fully operational.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 2303/86 In addition to the effects which this has on economic relations between countries, the new form of television, which is the by Mr Heinz Schreiber (S—D) television of the future, raises a particular problem with to the Commission of the European Communities regard to the traditional source of financing for most (14 January 1987) television companies — advertising. (87/C 270/24) Regardless of how we manage to adapt the advertising market to suit the requirements of 'television without frontiers', does the Commission consider a code of conduct Subject: Review of State aids pursuant to Article 92 of the should be drawn up for this special new sector of the EEC Treaty Community economy and, if so, what means does it intend to use to introduce it? Can the Commission provide the following information:
1. The number of cases in which proceedings in respect of State aids have been initiated pursuant to Article 92 of Answer given by Lord Cockfield the F.EC Treaty, broken down by Member State. on behalf of the Commission (1 June 1987) 2. The number of decisions declaring that State aids within the meaning of Article 92 of the EEC Treaty are In the context of its policy on the media, the Commission has incompatible with the common market and may not proposed a package of measures that are necessary in view of therefore be granted (broken down by Member State). the new developments in television at Community level. No C 270/18 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87
Alongside measures to strengthen the technological capacity Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis of the European communications industry and to foster on behalf of the Commission cultural activities in Europe, the package includes a proposal (8 April 1987) for a Council Directive concerning broadcasting activities (!) the purpose of which is to approximate national laws, Regulations and administrative provisions governing, The Commission is fully aware of the recent shipwreck of the among other things, broadcast advertising. 'Kowloon Bridge'. Indeed, as the Commission stated during the emergency debate on the issue at the plenary session of This should result in a minimum standard for broadcast December 1986 (J), within hours of the incident three advertising that will be binding throughout the Community experts were sent to Ireland to cooperate with the Irish and will facilitate the free movement of broadcasts that authorities in dealing with possible environmental include advertising and avoid distortions of competition problems. between broadcasting organizations and advertisers in the individual Member States. As regards the specific questions raised by the Honourable The Commission welcomes any initiatives by the business Member, the Commission can only refer the Honourable community to supplement this general legal framework with Member to its statements during the emergency debate at the voluntary codes of conduct that comply with the rules of December plenary. The 'Kowloon Bridge' was registered in competition. Hong Kong and the Hong Kong flag is not considered as a flag of convenience. It is normal for a Hong Kong registered (') COM(86) 146 final/2 of 6. 6. 1986 and Supplement 5/86 — vessel to have a non-Western crew. Bull. EC. It should be noted that the 'Kowloon Bridge' was taking shelter in Bantry Bay. It was not in port but 'at sea'. The Lloyds inspector had given clearance to the captain to proceed to Scotland for repairs.
As regards Port State Control, the ship had called at four WRITTEN QUESTION No 2322/86 ports within the region in the previous six months but had by Mr Kenneth Stewart (S—GB) given no cause to be inspected. Under Port State Control there is no obligation to inspect every ship. In any case the to the Commission of the European Communities ship was, as stated above, not in port but in the Bay. (14 January 1987) (87/C 270/26) The Commission is not in a position at present to make any comment on the estimated compensation to the owners. Subject: Loss of the ore carrier 'Kowloon Bridge' The Commission understands that the United Kingdom The Commissioner will be aware of the recent shipwreck of Government will carry out an enquiry. the 'Kowloon Bridge' off the Irish coast, of previous incidents J such as the sister ship Derbyshire, which sank with the loss of ( ) See Verbatim Report of proceedings of 11 December 1986, 44 lives, the Torrey Canyon, Amoco Cadiz, Mont Louis and page 252. of the resultant effect on the vicinity from pollution, on wild life, fishing within the area, and the possible effect on consumers from polluted fish. In view of the very high incidence these days of maritime fraud, there are many questions unanswered.
Will the Commissioner explore all the relevant facts in the incident of the Kowloon Bridge, investigating such anomalies as a Third World crew under flag of convenience? WRITTEN QUESTION No 2323/86 (a) Why was the captain so insistent on putting to sea after by Mr Jens-Peter Bonde (ARC—DK) being warned by the Irish authorities that his ship was to the Commission of the European Communities suspect, placing the lives of his crew at risk, as well as the vessel under his command? (14 January 1987) (b) Was Port State Control in operation? If so, why was the (87/C 270/27) vessel allowed to leave port? (c) What would be the estimated compensation to the Subject: UEFA and the Danish Football Association owners for loss of the vessel and its cargo? (d) Will the Commission press the United Kingdom Will the Commission give an account of its negotiations with Government for a full inquiry into the incident and UEFA and make sure that it is the Danish Football explore the position of compensation to those Association alone which decides who is allowed to take the affected? football field in Denmark? 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/19
Answer given by Mr Marin should organize an exchange of information between on behalf of the Commission national experts. Accordingly, the Commission gave its (13 May 1987) support to two European conferences (one in Brussels in 1984 and the other in Oldenburg in the Federal Republic of Germany in 1985). Two studies were conducted on behalf of 1. To ensure freedom of movement for professional the Commission and were the subject of a publication footballers within the Community, the Commission is entitled 'Literacy Training in Europe' produced by the continuing its negotiations with UEFA and the national International Movement AID Fourth World i1) and 'Les associations concerned. itineraires d'analphabetisme' (Paths of Illiteracy) produced by the organization 'Lire et Ecrire' (2). 2. The Commission is not seeking to question the powers of the Dansk Boldspilunion to lay down rules on who is The Commission set up a working party comprising experts allowed to take the field in a professional football match, and those responsible for combating illiteracy in the Member provided that they are in line with the Community rules in States delegated by the Ministers for Education to coordinate force on the free movement of persons as interpreted by the and direct Community action. Court of Justice in its judgment of 14 July 1976 in Case 13/76 (Dona v. Mantero) (')• The Commission drafted a report on the fight against illiteracy in close cooperation with the working party. It In accordance with the principle of non-discrimination on comprises, among other things, a summary of the activities grounds of nationality established by Articles 7, 48 and 59 of undertaken by the Member States, a record of Community the EEC Treaty, regulations adopted by the National action and a work programme for 1987/88. The report Football Associations restricting the recruitment or selection is currently being discussed by the Education Committee of foreign professional footballers do not apply to players in preparation for the Council meeting to be held on who are nationals of other Member States. 14 May.
Consequently, the Commission wishes to point out to the With regard to the ESF, literary schemes as such are not Member States concerned that they are obliged to take all the afforded any priority. Certain upgrading modules may be necessary measures to ensure that the abovementioned cofinanced where they form an integral part of a vocational Community rules are applied to professional football. training course.
(>) ECR 1976, p. 1333. H ISBN 92-825-5855-X. (2) ISBN 92-825-6028-7.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 2362/86 WRITTEN QUESTION No 2365/86 by Mr Jaak Vandemeulebroucke (ARC—B) by Mr Pol Marck (PPE—B) to the Commission of the European Communities to the Commission of the European Communities (20 January 1987) (20 January 1987) (87/C 270/28) (87/C 270/29)
Subject: Aid for projects to combat illiteracy Subject: Seine/Scheldt waterway link
Can the Commission provide details for the period 1980 to The Gregoire report provides for the link between the Seine 1986 of the way in which aid has been granted to projects to and the Scheldt to be upgraded to take vessels of 1 350 combat illiteracy. I should like to have a list of the different tonnes. projects giving the name and address of the beneficiary organization and the amount granted per project. Does the Commission not consider that the deferral of the current negotiations on transport problems between France and Belgium until an indefinite date and the failure to implement the Gregoire report, which has been adopted:
Answer given by Mr Marin 1. constitute a 'non-tariff barrier to trade' which on behalf of the Commission discriminates against Belgian industry and transport to Belgian inland and maritime ports; (14 May 1987) 2. is fully in line with the French Interministerial resolution The conclusions adopted by the Council and the Ministers of 13 May 1968, which is, however, completely contrary for Education meeting within the Council on 4 June 1984 on to the spirit and the letter of Articles 2, 3 and 5 of the the fight against illiteracy stipulate that the Commission Treaty of Rome? No C 270/20 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87
Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis of achieving equality of opportunity in practice, in particular on behalf of the Commission through a programme of positive action. In the same (7 May 1987) programme, it calls for the promotion of equal representation between the sexes in employment at all levels. The Commission is aware of the Gregoire report drawn up by It also considers that the Community institutions should set a a Commission appointed by the French Government. good example to the public and to the national However, neither the Commission nor the Committee on administrations in implementing the objectives of Directive 1 Transport Infrastructures set up by Council Decision 76/207/EEC i ). 78/174/EEC of 20 February 1978 0) has been consulted about the development plan for inland waterway transport 1. Can the Commission state what positive action it has and the master plan for inland waterways in France set out in taken since 1982 to achieve equal representation at all the report. levels within its own organization, including executive The 1 350 tonne standard is also the one envisaged by the grades A 3, A 2 and A 1 ? Commission, barring exceptions, as the minimum standard for inland waterways of Community interest in its 2. What budgetary resources (amounts, percentage communication to the Council of 27 June 1986 on a compared with other staff policy measures) has it medium-term programme for transport infrastructure (2). In devoted to positive action in this sphere? this connection the Honourable Member could with advantage refer to the Commission's answers to Written Question Nos 1586/86 by Mr Roux (3) and 2423/86 by Mr 3. What measures are planned for 1987 and what funds has Loo (4). the Commission entered in the budget for the same year? The medium-term programme mentioned above provides a framework for the development of Community (') OJ No L 39, 14. 2. 1976, p. 40. infrastructures but it has no binding effect on the Member States. The work of adapting the Community network to uniform technical standards depends primarily on what the Member States have available in their budgets. The Community has provided support on both the French and Belgian sides for improving the Lys, which is part of the Answer given by Mr Christophersen Seine/Scheldt link (Council Regulation (EEC) No 3620/84 on behalf of the Commission of 19 December 1984 (5)). (7 April 1987) In conclusion, the Commission is not of the opinion that the situation described by the Honourable Member can be termed a 'non-tariff barrier' i.e., a measure having an effect 1. The Honourable Member will find an answer to her equivalent to a quantitative restriction on export within the question in the section on Commission staff in the report to meaning of Article 34 of the EEC Treaty. the Council on the implementation of the new Community action programme on the promotion of equal opportunities The Commission knows nothing of the French Government's for women (1982 to 1985) 0). 'Interministerial resolution' of 13 May 1968. Besides which, it does not believe that the attitude of the French Government can be judged on the basis of acts going back almost 19 She is also referred to the 1986 activity report of COPEC years. (Joint Committee on Equal Opportunities for Men and Women) which describes the activities carried out in 1986 in H OJ No L 54, 25. 2. 1978, p. 16. 2 line with the medium-term programme on equal ( ) COM(86) 340 final. opportunities for women (1986 to 1990) (2). (3) OJ No C 100, 13.4. 1987. (4) OJ No C 149, 9. 6. 1987. 5 ( ) OJ No L 333, 21. 12. 1984, p. 58. 2. It is impossible to give a figure for the cost of the specific measures taken since they form part of staff policy as a whole: recruitment, training, career development, etc.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 2372/86 3. For 1987, COPEC is preparing a draft positive action programme as announced in the annex to the medium-term by Mrs Maria Luisa Cassanmagnago Cerretti (PPE—I) action programme 1986 to 1990. Once it has been finalized to the Commission of the European Communities and adopted by the Commission later in the year, figures will (20 January 1987) be available to show the cost of those parts of the programme that are quantifiable. (87/C 270/30) (») COM(85) 641 final. Subject: Action programme to promote equality of (2) COM(85) 801 final. opportunity In its first action programme to promote equality of opportunity 1982 to 1985, the Commission set out methods 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/21
WRITTEN QUESTION No 2405/86 during the period July—September 1986. Ireland submitted by Mr Gijs de Vries (LDR—NL) its reports on the second half of 1985 in January 1987. to the Commission of the European Communities Reports on the first half of 1986 were received from the (23 January 1987) Federal Republic of Germany, Ireland, United Kingdom, the (87/C 270/31) Netherlands and France.
None of the Member States has so far submitted a report for Subject: Government purchases of telecommunications the second half of 1986. equipment The Governments of the Member States have repeatedly been The Council has recommended that the governments of reminded through their delegations in the Senior Officials the Member States should report to the Commission every Group Telecommunications, SOGT. six months on the measures taken to implement the recommendation of 12 November 1984 on This was the case during the SOGT meetings in September telecommunications contracts (OJ No L 298, 16. 11. 1984, and November 1985 concerning the first 1985 reports, and pp. 51—52). However, only six Member States have also during the April 1986 meeting following the adoption of submitted reports for the first six months of 1985. a common format for the reports. The delegations were requested to take the necessary steps that their Governments 1. Which Member States submitted reports for the second submit the outstanding reports for 1985 (according to the six months of 1985, the first six months of 1986 and the agreed format) as well as the reports for the first five months second six months of 1986 respectively? of 1986. 2. Will the Commission indicate, for each Member State, the date on which it drew the attention of the Member Further requests were sent to all SOGT delegations by telex States concerned to the need to comply with the reporting dated 28 August 1986 and individually on 21 November requirement? 1986 to the delegations of Belgium, France, Portugal and Spain. 3. Will the Commission kindly reply to these questions within three months? Recently, individual letters were sent in January 1987 to the respective authorities in Belgium, Greece, Portugal and Spain.
Answer given by Mr Narjes The Commission will continue to urge the Governments of on behalf of the Commission the Member States to submit the outstanding reports for 1986 until March 1987. (5 May 1987)
Prior to the effective implementation of Council recommendation 84/550/EEC some organizational questions had first to be solved, in order to establish the necessary market transparency through publication by the PTT administrations of announcements of calls for tender WRITTEN QUESTION No 2412/86 telecommunications supply contracts in the supplement of by Messrs Michel Debatisse, Dominique Baudis, the Official Journal and to adopt a common format for the Mrs Nicole Fontaine, Messrs Jacques Mallet and six-monthly reports from the Member States. Jean-Marie Vanlerenberghe (PPE—F) Both measures were agreed by the Senior Officials Group to the Commission of the European Communities 'Telecommunications' (SOGT) respectively in May and April (23 January 1987) 1986. (87/C 270/32) The agreement of these procedures as well as a certain inertia of the PTT administrations to change their long lasting Subject: Community aid to refugees from Christian areas of practices and to adapt to the new procedures delayed the the Lebanon implementation of the recommendation. The collapse of the Lebanese pound is making the economic The first reports on the implementation to Council situation of the country increasingly desperate. In the recommendation 84/550/EEC of 12 November 1984 Christian area, more than 500 000 refugess, particularly covering the first half year of 1985 were submitted during the from the Chouf region and who have lost everything they second half-year, in order of receipt, from Federal Republic possessed, are living in terrible conditions. of Germany, Ireland, Italy, France and the United Kingdom. The report from France covered also the second half-year of If we do not come to their aid immediately, they will very 1985 until November. soon be facing a famine situation which we cannot allow to happen. Reports covering the whole of 1985 were submitted to the Commission, following the adoption of a common format, What action does the Community intend to take to help the by Belgium, France, Italy, Federal Republic of Germany Christian refugees in the Lebanon? No C 270/22 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87
Answer given by Mr Cheysson February 1987: on behalf of the Commission — 280 000 ECU via the World Council of Churches for (20 May 1987) Lebanese citizens of various religious groups and Palestinians, The Commission is closely following developments in — 220 000 ECU via Medecins sans Frontieres Belgique Lebanon. It is always very concerned about the tragic fate (MSB B) for Palestinians and the Druze population, and suffering of the country's civilian population irrespective of the community involved. — 400 000 ECU in medicines via the Government, with the supervision by a NGO (all sections of the population), It has already tried, within the limits of the means available to — 200 tonnes of sugar, 300 tonnes of rice, 95 tonnes of it, to implement measures intended to provide aid to all those skimmed-milk powder and 295 tonnes of vegetable oil affected by the war so as to relieve their suffering. via Caritas Belgique, 75 % of which was cofinanced by the Community. Thus, since the war began in 1975, more than 70 million ECU in humanitarian and food aid has been supplied to March 1987: various sections of the population without discrimination. — Emergency aid totalling 2 700 000 ECU, broken down This concern not to discriminate on religious or community as follows: 1 600 000 ECU via UNRWA for Palestinian grounds has been a constant feature of the Commission's refugees, 700 000 ECU via the ICRC for all sections of policy in this area and has led it to take very special care in the the population and 400 000 ECU via UNDRO (United choice of agencies called on to implement humanitarian aid Nations Disaster Relief Office) for the Lebanese (Middle East Council of Churches, Red Cross, UNRWA, population, etc). — Food aid: 58 tonnes of cereals, 250 tonnes of In terms of emergency aid, the Community supplied 2,5 skimmed-milk powder, 45 tonnes of vegetable oil, million ECU in 1985 and 0,5 million ECU in 1986 to the 60 tonnes of sugar and 18 tonnes of beans via various civilian victims of violence. NGOs. Decisions on the following are currently being prepared: Supplies range from medicines to blankets, and aid has also been granted in cash. — 10 000 tonnes of cereals, 300 tonnes of powdered milk and 200 tonnes of butteroil via the Lebanese Government; this is an 'annual' decision under the Recent events, which have been even more serious than in standard programme of food aid intended to be previous years, have had grave consequences for the various distributed free of charge to all sections of the population sections of population living in Lebanon; i.e. Palestinian via the CSS (Comite Superieur de Secours). victims of camp warfare and the various Lebanese religious groups affected by these events. On top of these political and To sum up, the emergency and /or food aid already decided military circumstances, the Lebanese pound has collapsed on since December 1986 or in the process of being finalized and prices have been increasing, causing growing poverty can be estimated at: amongst wide sections of the population. It is currently believed that out of a total population of just over 3 million, — emergency aid in cash: 4 100 000 ECU, approximately 800 000 are in need of help. — food aid at world market prices: 4 700 000 ECU.
In view of this situation, the Commission has since December 1986 taken a series of emergency and food aid measures, trying at all times to observe both of the following political conditions: — that there should be a balanced distribution of aid to all sections of the population living in Lebanon, including WRITTEN QUESTION No 2435/86 the Palestinians, by Mr Kenneth Collins (S—GB) — that guarantees should be given by the various partners to the Commission of the European Communities involved concerning the effective supervision of (23 January 1987) distribution. (87/C 270/33) So far, the following decisions have been taken: Subject: Numbers of students of veterinary medicine December 1986: Will the Commission state, for each of the Member States of Emergency aid: 500 000 ECU via the ICRC (all sections of the Community, the annual intake of students to study the population); veterinary medicine, and will it say, for each of the Member Food aid: 5 000 tonnes of cereals via the Lebanese States, how often this figure is reviewed and whether it is the Government (supplement to the 1986 annual allocation), Commission's view that the numbers in these Member States intended to be distributed free of charge to the various satisfies the requirements of the various Directives adopted Lebanese population groups. on animal welfare, meat, hygiene, etc.? 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/23
Answer given by Mr Marin concluded bilateral agreements with Denmark, on behalf of on behalf of the Commission the Faroese islands, limiting the catches in the Faroese (22 June 1987) fishery.
The continuation of such bilateral agreements tends, The Commission is sending the Honourable Member and the however, to undermine the effectiveness of NASCO. European Parliament Secretariat the statistical tables on the Consequently, the Community has refrained from seeking a veterinary profession for the period 1982 to 1985. No bilateral agreement for the 1987/88 salmon season in the information is available on the number of students. expectation that NASCO at its Fourth Annual Meeting in June will adopt the necessary regulatory measure to limit the Once qualified, graduates in veterinary medicine may work Faroese interceptory fishery for that season. The objective of in various sectors of the economy. such limitation is of course to improve the returns of salmon to their rivers of origin. It is likely that other factors, in particular working conditions, have a greater influence than student number on the Member States' ability to cover their needs in terms of veterinary staff to ensure the correct implementation of Community Directives.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 2463/86 by Mr Patrick Lalor (RDE—IRL) WRITTEN QUESTION No 2449/86 to the Commission of the European Communities by Mr Ray Mac Sharry (RDE—IRL) (26 January 1987) to the Commission of the European Communities (87/C 270/35) (26 January 1987) (87/C 270/34) Subject: Harmonization of safety features on bicycles
Subject: EEC programmes for renewal of salmon stocks 1. Will the Commission provide, for each of the Member States, information relating to: In 1983, the Community participated in the establishment of the North Atlantic Salmon Conservation Organization (a) the size of the market in bicycles; (NASCO), acknowledging that the improvement of European salmon stocks requires action at international (b) the level of employment created or maintained in the level, as well as local level. manufacture, distribution and sale of bicycles; (c) the extent of imports of bicycles from third countries; In view of the dangers posed to Europe's salmon fisheries by pollution and over-exploitation, is the Commission satisfied (d) the level of exports of bicycles from the Community to that the reductions in the level of the fisheries concerned third countries; within the framework of NASCO is sufficient to ensure an adequate level of returns of salmon to their rivers or origin, (e) the extent of rules relating to safety features on and is the Commission satisfied with the progress to date of bicycles; the working of the agreement? (f) the position of each Member State relating to the need to ensure that every bicycle carries adequate lighting, front and rear, including pedal and side reflectors?
Answer given by Mr Cardoso E Cunha 2. Does the Commission agree that the manufacture of on behalf of the Commission bicycles should automatically include adequate and (3 April 1987) permanent lighting features, including the compulsory provision in each Member State of pedal and side reflectors? Whilst the North Atlantic Salmon Conservation Organization (NASCO) has adopted regulatory measures limiting the catches of salmon at West Greenland in the 1984, 3. Can the Commission indicate which Member States 1986 and 1987 seasons, it has failed since its establishment in make special provisions for cyclists using main roads and the 1983 to adopt any corresponding measures to limit the level of aid provided to facilitate cyclists using the roads? Faroese interceptory fishery. 4. Finally, can the Commission provide up-to-date The Community, in order to protect salmon of Community statistics for each of the Member States on accidents relating origin during their period of migration, has therefore to bicycles? No C 270/24 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87
Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis on behalf of the Commission on behalf of the Commission (26 June 1987) (27 May 1987)
1. (a) to (d) The Commission is sending the Honourable The Commission is unable to say whether or not cadmium is Member and Parliament's Secretariat extracts from the used in the manufacture of beer crates other than those used 'Eurostat' publication concerning: by the brewery referred to. (i) bicycle production in nine Member States between 1980 and 1985 (no figures are available for Belgium, Cadmium has various industrial applications. The main uses Luxembourg or Portugal) (l); are as a pigment, as a plastic stabilizer, as a surface coating and in batteries. A broader description of the uses of (ii) imports and exports to and from each of the 12 Member cadmium in different industrial sectors has already been States and the Community as a whole in 1985 and in the given in the answer to Written Question No 806/86 by Mr first 11 months of 1986 (2). Roelants du Vivier (!). (e) and (f) Hitherto no need has been felt for Community-wide harmonization in this field. Consequently, Cadmium is toxic for man following absorption. The major the Commission does not have full details of the national concern has been with chronic adverse effects on the kidney. provisions on safety devices on bicycles or on the Member The Commission has decided that cadmium chloride is to be States' plans in this area. However, since Council Directive classed in category 2 carcinogen and labelled as follows: 83/189/EEC entered into force, the Commission has been Toxic — R 45-23/25-48 S 53-44 (2). kept informed of new draft national legislation, as required by the Directive. The other salts of cadmium have not been evaluated but it is envisaged that this work will be carried out in due course. 2. Yes.
3. The Commission regrets that it is unable to give details Finally, the Honourable Member is referred to the 3 on this question. Commission's new action programme against cadmium ( ), where details of the risks posed by cadmium and proposals to 4. According to the latest statistics available, 3 450 meet those risks are set down. cyclists were killed (6,7% of all road deaths) and 138 350 injured (8,6% of all road injuries) in 1984. H OJ NoC 72, 20. 3. 1987. (2) OJ NoL 247, 1. 9. 1986. 3 0) Structure and activity of industry. ( ) COM(87) 165. (2) Source: Eurostat-COMEXT. (3) OJ No L 109,26.4. 1983.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 2473/86 WRITTEN QUESTION No 2471/86 by Mr Louis Eyraud (S—F) by Mr Willy Kuijpers (ARC—B) to the Commission of the European Communities to the Commission of the European Communities (26 January 1987) (23 January 1987) (87/C 270/37) (87/C 270/36)
Subject: Use of cadmium Subject: Hormone ban in the Community
Recently the Dutch brewers Heineken announced that they Is it true that the USA is exerting pressure on the EEC to intend to stop using cadmium as a colouring agent in beer change its mind about imposing a total ban on the use of crates. Cadmium is a heavy metal which, whenever it is growth hormones? Does the Commission intend to maintain released into the environment in the form of waste, presents a a firm front against such pressure? Does it intend to widen the risk to human health. It is not readily degradable and can find ban to cover other types of hormone such as somatropin, its way into foodstuffs. However, it is used, among other which raises the milk production of dairy cattle and the things, in the manufacture of beer crates in order to preserve impending marketing of which in the USA is a matter of the brightness of the colours. Can the Commission say: concern to Parliament (see the written question by Mr Eyraud and others (J) and the motion for a resolution — whether cadmium is also used elsewhere in the pursuant to Rule 47 tabled by Mr Glinne (2) on this manufacture of beer crates, subject)? — which industrial processes involve the use of cadmium, — what the exact effects on human health are of the use of Does it think it appropriate, at a time when surpluses are cadmium? causing world prices to fall and may well give rise to a trade 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/25
war between the main agricultural producers, to propose to international fora. It will continue to explore all possibilities the EEC's trading partners that a multilateral discussion be of tackling the matters referred to by the Honourable held, in the framework of the present round of GATT talks, Member. to: (!) Council Directive 85/649/EEC (OJ No L 382, — determine the influence of hormones on world trade in 31. 12. 1985). agricultural products, and
— draw up international regulations to restrict the marketing and use of hormones in agriculture and livestock breeding?
1 ( ) Oral Question No 0-146/86. WRITTEN QUESTION No 2478/86 (2) Motion for a resolution No B 2-986/86. by Mr Andrew Pearce (ED—GB) to the Commission of the European Communities (26 January 1987) (87/C 270/38)
Answer given by Lord Cockfield on behalf of the Commission Subject: Free market in air transport (27 May 1987) Following the Commission's answer to my Written Question No 925/86 0) in which the Commission agrees that the recent action by the Scandinavian Air System for restricting The authorities of the USA have made formal representations competition on certain air routes, including routes serving to the Commission concerning certain aspects of the Denmark, would be prohibited by existing EEC rules, what Community Directive prohibiting the use in livestock steps is the Commission currently taking to put an end to this farming of certain substances having a hormonal action (!), abuse and when does it hope that the matter might be which they believe would be in violation of the Community resolved? and Member States' obligations under the Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade. (») OJ No C 45, 23. 2. 1987, p. 25.
They propose that steps are taken to ensure that:
'(a) That portion of Directive 85/649/EEC that would Answer given by Mr Sutherland require certification that imported meat be from on behalf of the Commission animals which have not been treated with hormonal (19 June 1987) substances is rescinded,
(b) EC Member State laws and regulations enacted to The Commission does believe, as stated in its implement the offending position of the EC Directive communication (*) to the Council on market access in civil aviation, that the present system in the EEC is too restrictive. are not implemented, It has therefore in the same communication proposed an (c) That no measures are taken to impede the importation enlargement of the scope of the EEC Directive on 2 into the EEC of US origin meat from animals properly interregional air services ( ). This proposal is at present treated with approved hormonal substances and where under discussion in the Parliament and in the Council. there is no scientific justification for considering such Further proposals will follow in this area in order to achieve meat as dangerous to human health.' the internal market by 1992.
With respect to preventing the abusive use of traffic rights the The Commission has taken a firm attitude in respect of US Commission has been pursuing a two-pronged approach to allegations that the Community's prohibition of certain competition in the air transport sector: hormones in meat is contrary to the agreement on technical — on the one hand it has proposed to the Council two draft barriers to trade. The Community does not accept these 3 allegations. At the same time it has indicated a willingness to regulations to implement Articles 85 and 86 ( ). The first seek a mutually satisfactory solution in the framework of the of these regulations would establish the procedural rules Directive. while the second would enable the Commission to declare certain categories of agreements and concerted practices exempt under Article 85 for a limited period and subject The Commission is studying the matter of Somatotropin and to certain conditions. These draft regulations are key similar products in order to determine what action may be elements in the package of measures currently before the necessary at Community level. Council, — on the other hand it has initiated proceedings under The Commission is in constant contact with its trading Article 89 of the EEC Treaty, a transitional Article partners both bilaterally and multilaterally in different specifying that, pending the adoption of an implementing No C 270/26 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87
regulation, the Commission shall ensure the application The system is still at the pilot stage and a full technical and of the principles of Articles 85 and 86 and establish a economic assessment will probably not be possible until procedure to this end. 1989. There are no plans at the moment to finance an industrial-scale plant. 10 airlines are now taking part in a dialogue with the Commission with a view to modifying their agreements and There are two ways to deal with nitrous oxides: either to use practices so as to make them compatible with the inexpensive methods of limiting their production (such as competition rules. using low No x burners) or to use one of the methods of reducing nitrous oxides in discharges (denoxing) the majority H COM(86) 424 final. of which are of Japanese origin. The JRC is also carrying out (2) O] No L 237, 26. 8. 1983, p. 19. (3) COM(87) 396 final (OJ No C 291, 12. 11. 1981, p. 4). studies on denoxing in parallel with its more advanced studies on desulphurization.
A number of research projects are being carried out on the removal of pollutants from combustion gases under the non-nuclear energy R&D programme. A project is also being undertaken in the Federal Republic of Germany under the energy demonstration programme to develop an WRITTEN QUESTION No 2491/86 industrial-scale process for European conditions. by Mr Vincenzo Mattina (S—I) to the Commission of the European Communities The Community is able to provide loans with interest-free subsidies for investment involving Community coal under (29 January 1987) Article 54 of the ECSC Treaty. This type of loan does not, (87/C 270/39) however, cover coal imported by a non-Community country. Subject: Pollution caused by refineries and large-scale coal-burning power stations There are other sources of financial support which are not restricted solely to energy (Regional Fund, etc). Funding is, however, not automatic and each case is judged on its The emission of nitrous oxides into the atmosphere from merits. refineries and power stations makes a significant contribution to the formation of acid rain. For this reason the regional authorities in Apulia have issued an order to suspend The Commission has not to date helped finance the ENEL the construction by the ENEL of two large-scale coal-fired power station at Brindisi. coal-burning powers stations in the province of Brindisi. In the past, the Commission financed research which contributed to the discovery of a process called Mark 13/a, which makes it possible to eliminate pollution. Can the Commission therefore say whether one or more Community financing bodies have helped or are going to help to finance ENEL's large-scale coal-burning power stations in the province of Brindisi and others? Would the Commission be willing to finance the application of the Mark 13/a process WRITTEN QUESTION No 2512/86 for these two large-scale coal-burning power stations and by Mr Jose Happart (S—B) other similar ones? to the Commission of the European Communities (29 January 1987) (87/C 270/40)
Answer given by Mr Mosar on behalf of the Commission Subject: Imitation milk products and milk substitutes (1 June 1987) Imitation milk products and milk substitutes are gaining ever greater acceptance on the EEC market. Emissions of nitrous and sulphur oxides are a source of pollution as they play a part in the formation of acid rain. These milk substitutes are, however, deficient in calcium and vitamin A. The Mark 13/a process developed by the Joint Research Centre at Ispra was initially designed for the disposal of — What action does the Commission intend to take in order sulphur oxides alone. A pilot plant using this process is being to protect consumer health? built at the Saras refinery in Sarroch, Sardinia. — Do products originating from outside the EEC have to meet labelling requirements with regard to ingredients? The plant is scheduled to come on stream in 1988. The Commission is contributing up to 5 million ECU to cover — Does the Commission think that such products can still half the study, construction and testing costs. be described as foodstuffs given their artificial nature? 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the uropean Communities No C 270/27
Answer given by Lord Cockfield — the permitted levels of electro-magnetic pollution for on behalf of the Commission humans and animals in the various Member States of the (30 April 1987) Community, — the measures taken in the various Member States to limit such pollution, 1. Community and national law prohibit the placing on — the information published to warn the general public of the market of foodstuffs which are hazardous to health. In its hazards of this kind? communication on food law (*) the Community underlined the importance of full consumer information in relation to the composition of foods and has announced that it will be making proposals on nutritional labelling which will enable the consumer to choose a balanced diet. Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis on behalf of the Commission 2. All products marketed within the Community, (14 May 1987) regardless of their country of origin, must comply with Council Directive 79/112/EEC on labelling, presentation The Commission learned from the press of the facts and advertising of foodstuffs for sale to the ultimate mentioned by the Honourable Member. As far as it knows, 2 consumer ( ). For milk substitutes a proposal providing no specific measures have been taken by the Member States detailed provisions on labelling has been submitted to the to set limit values for the exposure of animals to 3 Council ( ). electromagnetic fields.
3. Nevertheless, so-called milk substitutes are foodstuffs in the same way as all other processed foodstuffs which are marketed in the Community.
(') COM(85) 603 final. 2 ( ) OJNoL33, 8.2. 1979, p. 1. WRITTEN QUESTION No 2535/86 (3) COM(86) 222 final, 2. 5. 1986. by Mr Richard Cottrell (ED—GB) to the Commission of the European Communities (29 January 1987) (87/C 270/42)
Subject: Rail modernization in Morocco
The Moroccan railway system is in the process of being WRITTEN QUESTION No 2521/86 extensively modernized and extended. What contribution has been made from Community funds, or from the EIB, to by Mrs Raymonde Dury (S—B) this programme of renewal? Much of the equipment to the Commission of the European Communities purchased by ONCF is Japanese, including the locomotives. (29 January 1987) If the Community has been involved in the programme, what effort was made to secure orders for new rail equipment from (87/C 270/41) European companies? If the Community made no contribution whatsoever, why not, considering the value of potential exports? Subject: Electro-magnetic pollution
During a press conference, farmers in the Luxembourg and Namur regions have condemned the harmful biological Answer given by Mr Cheysson effects of electro-magnetic fields caused by high or very on behalf of the Commission high-voltage power lines. A study by Dr A. Andre and Dr O. Becker, Directors of Research at the Syracuse Veterans (26 May 1987) Hospital in the State of New York, has shown that electro-magnetic fields can damage organisms in a number of In the context of financial aid to Morocco under the first and ways (change in the cholesterol rate, increase in cortisone, second financial Protocols, the Community has not yet increase in blood pressure, etc.). In France, research carried received any requests for financing (either from EIB funds or out at the National Veterinary College of Maisons Alfort on from the Community budget) for projects connected with the rabbits and rats showed the same results. A particle physics development of the Moroccan railway system. In financial engineer at the CNRS (French National Research Centre), cooperation the sectors to be financed are selected on the Jean Pagot, has even likened this phenomenon to slow basis of the partner country's proposals, which are drawn up electrocution. in accordance with its development priorities.
Can the Commission therefore indicate: No C 270/28 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87
WRITTEN QUESTION No 2556/86 (b) The Commission has not taken any legislative action by Mr Thomas Megahy (S—GB) in this connection. to the Commission of the European Communities (c) As regards the role of the Environmental Health (2 February 1987) Officer, such a figure does not exist in the other Member States. Checks on compliance with hygiene standards in (87/C 270/43) establishments and premises intended for the manufacture, preparation and sale of foodstuffs are generally entrusted to persons with higher-education qualifications (doctors, Subject: Food poisoning originating from the EEC veterinary surgeons, biologists, chemists, etc.), who may be countries assisted by staff who have been educated to a lower level but have undergone special training. This monitoring system appears to give satisfaction. The Wakefield Metropolitan District Council Environmental Health and Services Department, which is in (>) COM(84) 502 final. my European constituency of Yorkshire South West, has reported that of the 118 confirmed cases of salmonella investigated from June to November 1986, 49 persons (42%) had recently returned from abroad. Of these 36 (31 %) had returned from an EEC country, which included 30 (25 %) from Spain. A recent survey conducted throughout WRITTEN QUESTION No 2561/86 Yorkshire indicated that more than 20 % of cases originated by Mr John Iversen (COM—DK) from EEC countries, although this is likely to be an to the Commission of the European Communities under-estimate. (2 February 1987) >' a) Can the Commission indicate what action is being taken (87/C 270/44) throughout the EEC to prevent such outbreaks of food poisoning? Subject: Fresh research into the artificial sweetner Nutra Sweet (b) Can they indicate relevant EEC legislation in this sphere? Will the Commission arrange for fresh research to be carried out into the artificial sweetner Nutra Sweet (Aspartam), in (c) Hygiene standards of food premises in the United view of recent reports carried on Danish television on Kingdom are enforced by Environmental Health Thursday, 12 December 1986, to the effect that the company Officers. Can the Commission state whether this work is manufacturing Nutra Sweet had itself ordered research to be done by Environmental Health Officers in other EEC carried out? countries? If not, would they consider that other countries would benefit from the employment of similarly qualified officers? Answer given by Lord Cockfield on behalf of the Commission (25 May 1987)
No. Answer given by Lord Cockfield The EEC Scientific Committee for Food advised in 1984 that on behalf of the Commission aspartame should be attributed an Acceptable Daily Intake of (5 May 1987) 0 to 40 mg/kg bw (DKP ADI 0 to 7,5 mg/kg bw). The Committee has recently been reviewing the most recent data on sweeteners. The report will be published in due course. (a) The Commission is aware of the fact that diseases transmitted by foodstuffs, in particular salmonellosis, are on the increase and already reported this trend in its communication to the Council on cooperation at Community level on health-related problems (:). A variety of factors, such as changes in social habits, tourism and the WRITTEN QUESTION No 2564/86 handling of foodstuffs during the production, storage and by Mr Barry Seal (S—GB) preparation of food may be responsible for such an increase. to the Commission of the European Communities Measures to prevent food contamination are being taken by the competent national administrations, including (2 February 1987) enforcement of food hygiene standards and investigations in (87/C 270/45) the event of an epidemic. International organizations such as the WHO and the FAO are endeavouring to evaluate the Subject: General aviation licences departments responsible for the hygiene of the foodstuffs concerned and establish international standards in the Could the Commission say what progress has been made in field. standardizing general aviation licences and servicing 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/29 procedures throughout the Community, bearing in mind the WRITTEN QUESTION No 2576/86 growing importance of general aviation and the need for by Mr Luc Beyer de Ryke (LDR—B) truly international air services? to the Commission of the European Communities Could the Commission also comment on the vast disparity in (2 February 1987) general aviation landing charges between British airfields and (87/C 270/46) those of other Member States?
Subject: Production and export of Christmas trees
Christmas trees have become a paying proposition for some Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis forest regions in Europe such as the Ardennes in Belgium. on behalf of the Commission (11 May 1987) What policy does the Commission intend to pursue to aid countries that produce fir trees to export to other Community countries and outside markets? Mutual acceptance of licences in air transport including General Aviation Licences and servicing procedures is one of What share of the market do the producer regions (Germany, the subjects currently under consideration by the France, Belgium) have, and how much does this activity Commission with a view to submitting a proposal to the bring in for these generally less-favoured regions? Council.
Member States and indeed individual airports are free to fix the levels of aeronautical charges according to their own methods. These depend largely on factors like: Answer given by Mr Andriessen — the institutional structure of the airport authority, on behalf of the Commission — its relationship with government, (22 May 1987) — the activities undertaken by each authority, — the services provided in each airport, The Commission has no detailed information about the Christmas tree market and consequently none at all about the — the sources of finance and the non-aeronautical respective market share of the producer regions or the returns revenue, obtainable from Christmas tree enterprises. Although fir tree enterprises are often run on agricultural land they are not — the accounting policies applied, etc. covered by the common agricultural policy. Nevertheless they often constitute a sideline for crop farmers and, as such, The specific mix and the weight attributed to these factors they could be of some interest in the present economic vary widely between Community airports. This inevitably situation. results in the vast disparity in aeronautical charges (part of which are the aircraft landing charges) not only between Member States but also between airports within the same country.
It is perhaps worthwhile noting in this respect that the landing charges for the same aircraft can vary in the United Kingdom from £ 5 to 73. WRITTEN QUESTION No 2601/86 The Commission is currently considering the possibility of harmonizing the charging principles applicable, in by Mr Pierre Lataillade (RDE—F) particular, to major Community airports, while at the same to the Commission of the European Communities time placing an obligation on airports to carry out both (6 February 1987) regular and ad hoc consultations with their users. (87/C 270/47)
The end objective is to encourage: — more transparency, Subject: Energy prices and taxation
— less discrimination, Can the Commission give details of the measures it intends to — and a closer relationship between charges levied and cost take, as part of the plan to implement the internal market by of facilities provided. 1992, to harmonize energy prices in the Community both for domestic and industrial consumers and to reduce the still considerable disparities in energy taxation between the various Member States? No C 270/30 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87
Answer given by Lord Cockfield Answer given by Mr Marin on behalf of the Commission on behalf of the Commission (27 May 1987) (25 May 1987)
The completion of the internal market does not imply the 1. The Commission has information to the effect that harmonization of energy prices. On the contrary, according 'national liaison bodies' for International Homeless Year to the principles on realistic structuring of the price of energy have been set up in the following Member States: Belgium, adopted by the Council (*) the price before tax should reflect Denmark, the Federal Republic of Germany, Greece, France, the specific costs and conditions of the market, unless the Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal and the United specific objectives of energy policy dictate a different course. Kingdom. The application of these principles is likely to eliminate distortions of competition and to provide the best structure In almost all cases these committees are coordinating for the supply of energy in the Community. activities relating to specific problems of the homeless in developing countries. On the other hand, reducing the differences in taxation of energy does form part of the Commission's programme for 2. Almost all the topics dealt with in the activities completing the internal market (2). The Commission will organized as part of the International Year of Shelter for the shortly be submitting to the Council proposals for Homeless likewise concern the developing countries and the approximating the rates of VAT and the principal excise Commission has no specific operations in this field; it does duties, including those on mineral oil products. These rates not, therefore, propose to send officials as observers. of VAT and excise duty would be applied in all Member Nevertheless, the Commission pays close attention to the States by 31 December 1992 at the latest. The effect of these endeavours connected with the International Year and at the proposals once adopted and implemented will be to eliminate tenth (commemorative) session of the Commission on significant differences between Member States in their levels Human Settlements in Nairobi from 6 to 16 April the of indirect taxation. Commission delegation in Nairobi ensured that the Community was represented. (>) OJ No L 149, 18. 6. 1980, p. 4; OJ No L 247, 23. 8. 1982, p. 10. (2) COM(85) 310 final, 14. 6. 1985.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 2611/86 by Mr Madron Seligman (ED—GB) to the Commission of the European Communities (6 February 1987) WRITTEN QUESTION No 2609/86 (87/C 270/49) by Mr Gene Fitzgerald (RDE—IRL) to the Commission of the European Communities Subject: Attempts to ban imports of South African coal (6 February 1987) (87/C 270/48) With reference to the statement issued by the European Political Cooperation meeting on 16 September 1986 that most Member States were willing to implement a ban on Subject: National Committees for International Year of imports of coal from South Africa, can the Commission Shelter for the Homeless state:
As 1987 is International Year of Shelter for the Homeless, 1. How it reconciles this intention with the Community national committees have been set up in some countries to sectoral objectives in energy policy, as adopted in the facilitate international coordination of activities. Council resolution of 16 September 1986, namely, to pursue efforts to promote consumption of solid fuels and to increase the present share of solid fuels in energy Will the Commission please state in which Member States, consumption in the Community; either national, regional or local committees for the International Homeless Year have been established and are 2. Whether it foresees that attempts to combat air pollution active? will be detrimentally affected if Member States are forced to rely on non-South African sources of coal, especially Will the Commission send any representative of the coal from the United States, which has a sulphur content European Communities as an observer to any of the IYSH of 1 to 2,5 %, while the sulphur content of South African activities during this year? If so, to which ones? steam coal is the lowest available i.e. 0,4 to 1,1 %. 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/31
3. How it reconciles the Community energy policy objective the threat of nuclear terrorism. This could take the form of to achieve reduced risks of sudden fluctuations in energy terrorists' attacking nuclear plants or vehicles transporting prices, with projections that a rise in the price of steam nuclear fuels and radioactive materials or attacks on nuclear coal imported by the Community could be as high as $ 10 power stations by lorries loaded with explosives and driven per tonne, if imports from South Africa are halted? by 'kamikaze' terrorists.
Can the Commission say what steps are being taken to protect nuclear plants in Community countries and whether it thinks they are adequate? What steps does it intend to take Answer given by Mr Mosar if it considers that the present measures do not sufficiently on behalf of the Commission protect nuclear plants against this sort of threat? (20 May 1987)
1. Under Article 71 of the ECSC Treaty, matters of Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis external commercial trade policy in the coal area are the on behalf of the Commission responsibility of the individual Member States. Should all (1 June 1987) Member States ban coal supplies from South Africa, this would not unduly affect progress towards the 1995 energy The physical protection of nuclear materials is the subject of objectives in respect of solid fuels, since adequate alternative detailed International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) supplies should be obtainable from the world coal recommendations (IAEA-INFCIRC 225, ref. 1). These market. recommendations form the basis of the Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material negotiated under the 2. It is true that South African coal has on average a lower auspices of the IAEA, which entered into force in February sulphur content than some of the other internationally traded 1987. steam coals, but proposed sulphur dioxide emission standards could be met satisfactorily using other coals in In addition, a group of countries which export nuclear combination with existing technology. materials and technology has drawn up the 'London Guidelines' (IAEA-INFCIRC 254), in which the countries in Other pollution effects from coal and solid fuels such as the question undertake, in particular, to require importing formation of nitrogen oxides and carbon dioxides are not countries to enforce minimum levels of physical protection in related to the quality characteristics of the coal but to their territory, based on the IAEA recommendations. methods of combustion. The Community and all the Member States have signed the 3. The price of coal on the world coal market depends on Convention on physical protection. The Commission is now a variety of factors, including dollar exchange rates and endeavouring to ensure that the instruments of ratification, interfuel competition as well as competition between coals which must be deposited simultaneously by the Community producers. In current circumstances it seems unlikely that a and the Member States, are deposited as soon as possible. ban on South African coal imports into the Community would cause a sustained increase in prices of as much as All the Member States with the exception, so far, of Spain $ 10 a tonne. Given the large amount of undeveloped world have undertaken to abide by the London Guidelines. reserves that exist, coal could be expected to maintain its It is also the Commission's understanding that the Member competitive position vis-a-vis other fuels. States are applying strict standards of physical protection that are at least equivalent to those recommended by the IAEA.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 2617/86 WRITTEN QUESTION No 2621/86 by Mr Jacques Mallet, Mr Jean-Pierre Abelin, Mr Michel Debatisse, Mrs Nicole Fontaine and Mr Jean-Marie by Mr Francois Roelants du Vivier (ARC—B) Vanlerenberghe (PPE—F) to the Commission of the European Communities to the Commission of the European Communities (6 February 1987) (6 February 1987) (87/C 270/51) (87/C 270/50) Subject: The cost of the damage caused to farming by the Chernobyl disaster Subject: Danger of nuclear terrorism According to the 12 January 1987 issue of Agence Europe, At a parliamentary hearing on nuclear power held by the the cost of the Chernobyl disaster to farming in Sweden Council of Europe, several experts expressed their fears of amounts to 33 million ECU. No C 270/32 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87
Could the Commission state the estimated cost of the damage hours, the former in respect of European workers, and the caused by this disaster in each of the Member States of the second in respect of industries and wholesale and retail Community? firms.
For the findings of these two surveys the Honourable Member is referred to No 27/1986 of European Economy which will be sent to him directly. Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis on behalf of the Commission 2. Questions concerning the adaptability of the labour market, including the reorganization of working hours, will (17 June 1987) soon, in the context of the social dialogue, be the subject of exchanges of views between the employers' and workers' organizations at Community level with a view to developing The Commission has not carried out an assessment of the common guidelines in this area. damage to the agriculture sector in the countries of the Community following the accident in Chernobyl. Further, on 23 April 1987 the Commission adopted a memorandum on internal and external adaptation of firms in relation to employment (J) which was forwarded for information to the Parliament Committee on Social Affairs and Employment.
The Commission would like this memorandum to be discussed in depth in the circles concerned. If necessary, the Commission can later present, in the most appropriate form, WRITTEN QUESTION No 2633/86 the conclusions reached as a result of these discussions and by Mr Jose Barros Moura (COM—P) consultations. to the Commission of the European Communities (>) COM(87) 169 final. (6 February 1987) (87/C 270/52)
Subject: The introduction of flexible working hours
Certain bodies in Portugal have quoted, without identifying it, a 'study drawn up by Community experts' which is WRITTEN QUESTION No 2639/86 supposed to show, among other things, that the introduction of flexible working hours would create jobs for 'more than by Mr Florus Wijsenbeek (LDR—NL) half of the 13 million unemployed in Western Europe' and to the Commission of the European Communities that 42 % of Portuguese workers would view favourably the (12 February 1987) introduction of flexible working hours. This information is (87/C 270/53) appearing in the political context of plans to introduce flexible working hours announced by the government. Subject: Traffic to and from the Netherlands in transit Can the Commission: through Belgium 1. Confirm or deny the existence of such a study and, if such Is the Commission aware that for road haulage traffic from a a study does exist, identify it? number of regions of the Netherlands en route to other destinations in that country, such as traffic from 2. Clarify whether the conclusions of the study, if it exists, Zeeland-Flanders, the shortest, quickest and least congested are binding on the Commission? routes run through Belgium and yet the Belgian customs authorities insist that all border formalities be completed?
Does the Commission not consider that, as elsewhere in Europe where similar situations arise, transit traffic should Answer given by Mr Marin be exempted from checks of this kind in order to relieve on behalf of the Commission pressure at borders? (15 May 1987) Is the Commission prepared to take this matter up with Belgium and possibly with other Member States? 1. The Commission has organized two special surveys in the Member States concerning inter alia flexible working If so, how? 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/33
Answer given by Lord Cockfield development, research and standardization? Does the on behalf of the Commission Commission not share my view that the severely fragmented (11 June 1987) nature of the European shipbuilding sector puts it at a competitive disadvantage compared to, for example, the Japanese shipbuilding industry? What action can be expected 1. The Commission is well aware of the existence in the from the Commission in this area? Community of situations similar to that mentioned by the Honourable Member, involving the carriage of goods between two points in one Member State over the territory of another Member State. Answer given by Mr Narjes It should be explained that such situations, which in the first on behalf of the Commission Member State are seen as carriage from one region to another, are a transit operation for the Member State whose (17 June 1987) territory is crossed. They therefore come within the scope of Council Regulation (EEC) No 222/77 of 13 December 1976 on Community transit (1). Article 1 of that Regulation states The Commission shares the Honourable Member's concern that the Community transit procedure shall apply to the about the severely fragmented nature of the European movement of goods between two points situated in the shipbuilding sector in the fields of product development, Community. Accordingly, the procedures deriving from research and standardization. It acknowledges that in these those rules remain applicable at present until the single areas there is much greater cooperation in Japan not only market has been established. because the shipyard groupings are much larger and are often part of big consortia comprising shipowners, banks and 2. In the case referred to by the Honourable Member, equipment manufacturers but also because of the extensive Belgium, pursuant to Article 3 of Regulation (EEC) No coordination made possible as a result of active government 222/77, adopted, within the Benelux framework, certain support. procedures in place of those laid down in the Regulation. These procedures distinguish between goods which are not in All the Commission's efforts to promote greater cooperation free circulation, those which are in free circulation but still in these areas has failed so far, despite numerous meetings liable to excise duties, and those on which customs and excise with national organizations and shipyard liaison bodies. The duties have been paid. For each of these categories, the Commission will continue to play a catalytic role in this documentation to be produced, for transit purposes, has connection, but cooperation between Community shipyards been simplified over the years. For instance, as regards the is in the first instance a matter for the firms concerned. third category, a guarantee is no longer required. The Commission takes pains to ensure that national aid 3. In the circumstances, the Commission does not think it schemes for shipowners and shipyards do not have the aim or appropriate to make representations to the Belgian effect of fragmenting the European shipbuilding sector. For authorities about this particular case. However, it is planning example, to be approved by the Commission the national aid to refer situations of the type mentioned by the Honourable schemes must not discriminate against shipowners or Member to the competent committee in the near future, so shipyards in another Member State. Consequently, a that it may examine whether in the Community as a whole shipowner in receipt of national aid is free to place his order simplified procedures based on the application of Article 6 of with the shipyard of his choice in any Member State. Regulation (EEC) No 222/77 could be applied more widely in this sphere. The Community encourages European cooperation in (») OJ No L 38, 9. 2. 1977, p. 1. industrial technology programmes such as BRITE and ESPRIT. As the technological problems in the case of advance technologies (e.g. laser technology, CAD/CAM etc.) are interdisciplinary and affect a broad industrial spectrum, the Community's technology programmes are open to all the industries concerned. The shipbuilding industry can participate in European high-technology projects in this context. WRITTEN QUESTION No 2644/86 by Mr Ben Visser (S—NL) The Commission is awaiting proposals on this subject from the industry, and has in the meantime begun talks with the to the Commission of the European Communities equipment manufacturers. An additional difficulty is caused (12 February 1987) by the fact that there is no Community-level liaison body and (87/C 270/54) some Member States do not have a national organization covering this sector. However, as a result of the Commission's efforts organizations are now being set up in Subject: Cooperation between European shipyards some of the countries where there were no such bodies.
How can greater cooperation between European shipyards be encouraged, for example in the fields of product No C 270/34 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87
WRITTEN QUESTION No 2648/86 shipyards in a position to make competitive bids for the types by Mr Ben Visser (S—NL) of ship for which their competitive position is least affected: in general, ships which are technically more highly developed to the Commission of the European Communities in design and equipment. (12 February 1987) (87/C 270/55) At its meeting of 22 December 1986 the Council approved these proposals, and the results of its decision are enshrined in the Sixth Council Directive on aid to shipbuilding of 26 Subject: Construction of oil tankers and bulk carriers January 1987 ('). The standard ceiling for this aid, as currently laid down, is limited in general to 28 % of the sum Can the Commission indicate why it does not consider it of the contract price and the aid granted (all forms). For necessary to defend the position of large oil tankers and bulk smaller ships, where price erosion is generally not so great, carriers in the shipbuilding sector, as stated in the efforts will be made to keep aid as low as possible. Commission document (1)? Is it correct that ships of this type are built mainly in the Mediterranean maritime States? In It follows from this that aid for the construction of the large, view of the lower wage costs and weaker economic position simpler types of ship is not in itself excluded, but it may not of such countries, is this not an added reason for ensuring exceed the limits mentioned. The Community shipyards are that the Community maintains its share of the construction free to choose their own product unit, but have to respect the of such vessels? maximum aid ceiling mentioned above.
f1) COM(86) 324 final. H GJNoL 69, 12. 3. 1987.
Answer given by Mr Narjes on behalf of the Commission (16 June 1987) WRITTEN QUESTION No 2655/86 by Mr Manuel Cantarero del Castillo (ED—E) Prices on the world market for the construction of large oil to the Commission of the European Communities tankers and bulk carriers have dropped to such a low level in (12 February 1987) recent years that it is no longer possible to build these ships in the Community at anything like cost-covering prices. (87/C 270/56) Leaving aside the question whether current prices cover the costs of South Korean shipyards, which are the decisive Subject: Framework agreement for coach operators factor on this market, the difference between those prices and actual building costs for this type of ship, even if built by the Coach tours in Europe have recently experienced a revival best equipped and most competitive shipyards in the after a long period of recession, during which preference was Community, is so great that this type of construction could given to other modes of transport. only be maintained here through excessively high State aid. Nevertheless, particularly as far as international coach travel is concerned — whether scheduled services or tours — it is As a guide, it can be taken that the difference can be about becoming increasingly evident that an outline agreement 40 % — sometimes more — of the cost price and that such should be drawn up between firms operating in the sector so prices cannot even cover the full costs of materials and that they can meet market demands in a more rational way supplies, meaning that variable costs would have to be and cooperate to provide comprehensive services and reduce covered entirely by subsidies. There are therefore no their costs, which often entail losses. prospects even in the long term of such ships being built profitably in Community shipyards. In view of this, does the Commission think it would be appropriate, in the context of its transport policy, to draw up Given the lower wage costs in South Korea and other newly a Community outline agreement on the subject, in order to emerging ship building countries, the above points also apply encourage collaboration and coordination between to shipyards in the Member States situated at the European coach operators in order to improve services and Mediterranean although their cost handicap seems to be less. increase profitability? However, it cannot be assumed that the prospect there will be significantly better in the long term. In 1986 only a few orders were placed in the Community for ships of this kind. Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis on behalf of the Commission In the light of this and the results of a confidential study (26 May 1987) undertaken by a consultant on behalf of the Commission into these price differences, the Commission has proposed to the Council that future policy regarding aid to shipping should The Commission is in favour of inter-firm cooperation be geared to a Community level of aid designed to put agreements where they help to improve the way in which 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/35 services are organized. Such agreements are, moreover, September 1986, there was no obligation under PSC rules to referred to in Article 9 of Council Regulation (EEC) No carry out a further inspection for six months unless there 517/72 of 28 February 1972 on the introduction of common were obvious reasons for such action. rules for regular and special regular services by coach and bus between Member States (1). At the inspection in Rotterdam, the inspector noted that no safe manning document was carried, that the portable fire The conditions for and limits to such agreements are set by extinguishers needed to be checked and labelled and that one Article 85 of the Treaty establishing the EEC and, with more compressed air breathing apparatus was missing. The master particular regard to transport, Council Regulation (EEC) No was informed that he needed to rectify the deficiencies at, or 1017/68 of 19 July 1968 applying rules of competition to by, the next port of call (London) and the British authorities transport by rail, road and inland waterway (2). were immediately informed.
The present PSC regime involves inspection of the Since the initiative as regards both the desirability and the implementation of a number of international conventions to content of such agreements must lie with the firms, the common standards set out in comprehensive internationally Commission does not envisage proposing that a framework agreed guidelines. The Commission remains concerned to agreement on the subject should be drawn up. ensure that as far as possible there are no discrepancies in H OJ No L 67, 20. 3. 1972. the way these conventions are enforced throughout the (2) OJ No L 175, 23. 7. 1968. region.
Coastal control is a different matter. The results of the COST 301 research exercise, which are due to be published later this year, will almost certainly make practical recommendations for better control of the movement of vessels in restricted Community waters.
The Commission deeply regrets the loss of life involved in the WRITTEN QUESTION No 2660/86 'Syneta' tragedy and hopes that the results of the enquiry into by Mr Kenneth Stewart (S—GB) it will be made public as soon as possible. to the Commission of the European Communities (12 February 1987) (87/C 270/57)
Subject: Sinking of the British tanker 'Syneta' with the loss of WRITTEN QUESTION No 2662/86 12 crew by Mrs Ludivina Garcia Arias (S—E) to the Commission of the European Communities Would the Commission state what inspections took place on the Syneta before leaving the port of Liverpool, with regard (12 February 1987) to the ship's safety equipment, lifeboats, rafts, etc? Were they (87/C 270/58) all in correct working order? Was the radar equipment tested prior to leaving port? I would congratulate the Subject: Community assistance in the aftermath of the Commissioner on calling for a full public inquiry into the Arnero disaster (Colombia) sinking and tragic loss of life, and would ask when will the Commission realize that the opinion of the Parliament on Does the Commission agree with allegations that stepping up port state control, and coastal control, whereby international funds earmarked for 'Resurgir' for the vessels can be monitored, is the correct policy, and reconstruction of homes and the economic and social recommend this action to the Council of Ministers? How rehabilitation of the victims of the Arnero disaster have been many more ships sailing under flags of convenience have to misappropriated ? be lost, putting their crews in jeopardy, before the Commission takes action against this nefarious practice and Does the Commission consider it appropriate to engage in conforms with Parliament's opinion? further collaboration with the organization concerned or with any other organization in endeavours to find a solution for those who are still in refugee camps?
Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis on behalf of the Commission Answer given by Mr Cheysson (6 April 1987) on behalf of the Commission (2 April 1987) As far as the Commission is aware no port-state control (PSC) inspections were carried out at Liverpool on the The Commission is aware of the allegations which have been 'Syneta'. As the ship had been inspected in Rotterdam on 22 made in the press against 'Resurgir'. It is not in a position to No C 270/36 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87 judge whether they are true. It has taken the greatest care to WRITTEN QUESTION No 2679/86 see that its own contributions reach the intended by Mr Robert Delorozoy (LDR—F) beneficiaries. to the Commission of the European Communities Should the Commission again provide aid to Colombia, it (12 February 1987) will select an intermediary offering sound prospects of (87/C 270/60) achieving the desired objectives. In particular, it will be concerned to select a decentralized organization capable of implementing the project properly and with the active Subject: European union and overseas territories participation of the final beneficiaries. The Single European Act is the renewed expression of the desire of the Member States of the Community to achieve European union. Its significance lies in the fact that it sets a deadline of 1992 for completing the internal market, while immediately recognizing the European Parl'ament's role in the decision-making procedure of the Council and WRITTEN QUESTION No 2673/86 incorporating in the same document matters relating to by Mr Jaak Vandemeulebroucke (ARC—B) political cooperation. If it is to be a world power, Europe must have a common long-term foreign policy and must be to the Commission of the European Communities more than just a market. One of the ways in which Europe's (12 February 1987) international identity finds expression is in its presence (87/C 270/59) throughout the world in overseas territories, notably in the overseas territories and departments under French sovereignty. The Single European Act fails to take account of Subject: Policy in respect of SMUs this fact and its inherent geopolitical benefits. Will the Commission draw up a report on Europe and the overseas The Commission has forwarded to the Council of Ministers territories and the prospects it envisages in this field? Since proposals concerning more intensive aid for small and the purpose of the policy of'economic and social cohesion' is medium-sized undertakings, and for this purpose has to reduce disparities in development between the various submitted a programme of action to the Council for its European regions, would not the overseas territories offer an approval. exemplary opportunity for its application? This was based on information obtained from independent research institutes, which contained a number of remarkable findings.
Can the Commission indicate the substance of the reports Answer given by Mr Natali drawn up by these research institutes? on behalf of the Commission (22 May 1987)
Answer given by Mr Matutes The Commission would draw the Honourable Member's on behalf of the Commission attention to the distinction which should be made between overseas departments (OD) and overseas countries and (26 May 1987) territories (OCT).
The action programme for SMEs to which the Honourable The OD are an integral part of the Community territory J Member refers ( ) was submitted to the Council on 7 August and consequently benefit from the various structural 1986 and adopted by it on 3 November. In drawing up the instruments, such as the EAGGF, the Social Fund and the programme the Commission consulted trade organizations ERDF, the purpose of which is indeed to encourage extensively and worked on the basis of a report on the economic and social cohesion between all Community problems of SMEs and relevant national and Community regions. policies which it received from Mr Emilio Fontela in 1986. In addition to Mr Fontela, the project leader, who is a professor On the other hand, the overseas countries and territories at the University of Geneva and a guest professor at the have a different status, set out since the origins of the Independent University of Madrid, the following helped to Community in Part Four of the EEC Treaty, which compile the report: Mr Alan G. Gibb, professor at Durham establishes special arrangements for their association with University Business School, Mr Roland Tavitian, associate the Community. professor at the University of Paris X, and Michel de Vos, lecturer at the University of Geneva. The report was supplied to Parliament. The Commission is sending a copy to the In this connection, a Council Decision of 30 June 1986 Honourable Member. renewed these arrangements for a further period up to 28 February 1990. i;1) COM(86) 445 final. Moreover, on 26 September 1986 the Commission decided to set up an interdepartmental working party on overseas 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/37 departments and overseas territories with the task of effective means exist within their territories for the control of examining measures taken and making recommendations for misleading advertising inter alia with regard to the the future. geographical origin of goods.
Any attempt made by a Member State to restrict the advertising of cheeses of the type mentioned by the Honourable Member would have to be examined in the light of the abovementioned Directives and in so far as imports were affected the possible incompatibility of the restrictions WRITTEN QUESTION No 2683/86 with Articles 30 and 36 of the EEC Treaty would also have to be examined. by Mr Pol Marck (PPE—B) to the Commission of the European Communities 0) OJ No L 33, 8. 2. 1979, p. 1. (2) OJ No L 250, 19. 9. 1984, p. 17. (12 February 1987) (87/C 270/61)
Subject: Designation of regional cheeses
The Member States are not allowed to refuse advertising for regional cheeses. However, there are grounds for questioning WRITTEN QUESTION No 2688/86 the regional character of some cheeses. Will the Commission indicate the legal basis used to define the term 'regional by Mr Ernest Miihlen (PPE—L) cheese'? to the Commission of the European Communities (12 February 1987) Is this definition applicable to varieties such as Gouda and (87/C 270/62) Brie whose regional nature has long since been abandoned in marketing practice? Subject: Social plan by Eurofer to offset the effects of closures
Answer given by Mr Andriessen 1. Is it true that a plan by Eurofer for additional on behalf of the Commission reductions in iron and steel production capacity has been submitted to the Commission? (22 May 1987) 2. What view does the Commission take of the scope of As there are no Community rules directly governing the this plan? appellation of cheeses the designation of what constitutes a regional cheese is still governed by national law. In this 3. Will the Commission act on Eurofer's request to connection it should be noted that some Member States have incorporate this plan into a broader social plan? If so, can it ratified the Convention of Stresa which makes provision on say what objectives and provisions are envisaged in the the one hand for the protection of the designation of cheeses context of such a social plan? which are still produced in a definite region of the countries concerned and on the other hand for appropriate designations for cheeses which are also produced outside their original area or country of production such as Gouda or Brie. Answer given by Mr Narjes on behalf of the Commission With regard to the protection of the consumer from (20 May 1987) misleading information conveyed by the labelling or advertising of the cheeses concerned, the Commission would Eurofer forwarded to the Commission on 2 March a report draw the Honourable Member's attention to Council relating to the closure of 10 485 million tonnes of hot rolling Directive 79/112/EEC on the approximation of the laws of capacity under certain conditions in the period 1986 to 1988. Member States relating to the labelling and presentation of In accordance with the decision of the Council of 18 foodstuffs for sale to the ultimate consumer and also the November 1986, the Eurofer report is being examined by the advertising thereof (J) and Council Directive 84/450/EEC Commission. Mr Narjes has informed the European relating to the approximation of laws, regulations and Parliament about the Commission's position in the plenary administrative provisions of the Member States concerning meeting of 12 March 1987. The subject has been dealt with misleading advertising (2). In particular Directive 79/ at the Council of 19 March 1987. The appreciation made by 112/EEC requires an indication of the place of origin of the the Commission refers inter alia to the matter of the social foodstuff where omission of this information would be liable costs associated with the restructuring as outlined by to mislead consumers as to its actual origin and prohibits the Eurofer. indication of information calculated to deceive the purchasers as to the product's origin. Directive 84/450/EEC also requires Member States to ensure that adequate and No C 270/38 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87
WRITTEN QUESTION No 2689/86 Answer given by Mr Narjes by Mr Leslie Huckfield (S—GB) on behalf of the Commission to the Commission of the European Communities (27 May 1987) (19 February 1987) (87/C 270/63) Most national research centres comparable with the establishments of the Joint Research Centre, such as Harwell Subject: Proposed deportation of Viraj Mendis from UK to in the United Kingdom, Saclay and Cadarche in France, Sri Lanka Karlsruhe in the Federal Republic of Germany and Casaccia, Saluggia and Frascati in Italy, provide transport for their What representations have the European Commission staff. In the absence of any provision in the Staff Regulations received about the above case, and does this fall within the or other rules banning this practice, the JRC establishments jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice or the European at Ispra, Petten and Karlsruhe from the very start provided Court of Human Rights? staff with free transport to their place of work. Remoteness from urban centres and the lack of public transport fully Is the European Commission prepared to make a statement justified their decision; the nuclear installations (reactors, on this case, where Viraj Mendis because of his political hot cells, etc.) which then formed the basis of JRC beliefs will almost certainly face imprisonment and torture if establishments, had to be located well away from residential he is forced to leave the sanctuary of the Church of the areas for safety reasons. Ascension in Hulme, Manchester where he has been seeking refuge since 20 December 1986 and return to Sri Lanka? The 1985 Court of Auditors report raised the question of whether this practice should be continued, and it has in fact been revised at national centres. The JRC therefore reviewed the matter in 1986 and discovered that the collective Answer given by Lord Cockfield transport provided is at present used by only just over 10 % on behalf of the Commission of staff. Consultations on the matter are to be held with the trade unions and staff association in the first half of 1987 (13 May 1987) with a view to achieving a substantial reduction in costs.
1. The Commission has not received any representations on the case of Mr Viraj Mendis.
2. Mr Mendis' case does not fall within the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice because its competence does not extend to matters which concern the right of asylum. Mr Mendis' case could fall within the procedures foreseen by the European Convention on Human Rights which can lead to WRITTEN QUESTION No 2706/86 the European Court of Human Rights. by Mr Mauro Chiabrando (PPE—I) 3. Since Mr Mendis' case does not fall within the to the Commission of the European Communities competence of the Commission, the Commission considers it (19 February 1987) inappropriate to make any comment or statement on it. (87/C 270/65)
Subject: Quality of water intended for human consumption
WRITTEN QUESTION No 2700/86 Council Directive 80/778/EEC (*) lays down provisions for Community regulations governing water intended for human by Mr Andrew Pearce (ED—GB) consumption. It also includes provisions under which, in the to the Commission of the European Communities event of emergencies, national authorities may, for a limited (19 February 1987) period of time and up to a maximum value to be determined (87/C 270/64) by them allow the maximum admissible concentration to be exceeded, provided that this definitely does not constitute an unacceptable risk to public health. Subject: Improper payment of transport costs to Commission staff Among the substances likely to cause water pollution is atrazine, which is regarded as a hazard and has a high danger Did the Commission continue in 1986 to pay the cost of transport between the place of residence and the place of rating. work for staff working at the Joint Research Centre? If so, how much did this abuse of Staff Regulations cost and when Atrazine is not included in the annexes to this directive since does the Commission intend to bring such matters within the the list includes groups of chemical substances and not the scope of the regulations? individual substances. 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/39
This was the answer given to Mrs Squarcialupi by Initiative (SDI) Research Development Programme, certain Commissioner Stanley Clinton Davis. EEC Member States have been specifically targeted for exclusion from any involvement either as contractors/ In the light of the above, does not the Commission think it subcontractors or even as recipients of goods associated with ought: the SDI programme?
1. to amend the directive to make it more precise and H OJ No C 337, 31. 12. 1986, p. 11. specific, by adjusting the standards in line with the dangers inherent in individual chemical rather than in broad categories of substances; Answer given by Mr De Clercq 2. to consult the Scientific Committee with a view to laying on behalf of the Commission down uniform danger limit values for substances in all (1 July 1987) Member States;
3. to clarify these provisions so as to avoid a situation where The Commission is aware that some Member States have substances banned in one Member State are allowed in concluded bilateral agreements with the government of the another? United States relating to the Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI). Apart from certain press reports the Commission is (') OJ No L 229, 30. 8. 1980, p. 11. not in possession of details concerning these agreements as they are confidential and no information has been supplied to the Commission by the Member States concerned. No information at present available to the Commission permits Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis it to conclude that some Member States which are willing to on behalf of the Commission enter into appropriate agreements with the United States (5 June 1987) would be excluded from participation in SDI.
1. The Commission has noted the difficulties encountered Nor is the Commission in possession of information which by some Member States in transposing Directive would indicate that firms in Member States which have not 80/778/EEC into national law, in particular where concluded an agreement with the US on SDI have been Parameter No 55 — 'Pesticides and related products' — is deliberately excluded from participation as either concerned. contractants or subcontractants. The guidelines for participation in SDI clearly stipulate that firms in countries 2. The Commission proposes to convene the Committee which choose not to participate in SDI may seek SDI on the Adaptation to Scientific and Technical Progress contracts and subcontracts. provided for in Article 14 of the Directive in the course of 1987, to assess the situation. If necessary, the Commission's departments will also call upon the services of experts in various fields for their advice, in order to provide the best possible guarantees from both scientific and technical viewpoints. The Commission will then in due course decide on any proposals for amendments to the Directive. WRITTEN QUESTION No 2729/86 by Lord O'Hagan (ED—GB) 3. The Commission would point out that, pursuant to Article 21, Directive 80/778/EEC and any amendments to it to the Commission of the European Communities apply to all Member States. (27 February 1987) (87/C 270/67)
Subject: Transmitting frequencies
The various Member States of the EEC all have different WRITTEN QUESTION No 2707/86 rules for the use of transmitting frequencies. by Mr Stephen Hughes (S—UK) 1. Does the Commission intend to harmonize permitted use to the Commission of the European Communities of transmitting frequencies? (19 February 1987) 2. Is the Commission satisfied with the present variation in (87/C 270/66) the use of transmitting frequencies between one Member State and another? Subject: EEC Member States and the USA's re-export control policies 3. If there is to be any EEC standardization, which base line would the Commission seek to use? Further to my written questions (Nos 503 and 505/86 (')), will the Commission answer the following points: Is the 4. Is the Treaty of Rome competent to deal with these Commission aware that, as part of the Strategic Defence matters? No C 270/40 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87
Answer given by Mr Narjes Member States. More specifically, which Member States on behalf of the Commission have actually begun to introduce the passport and how (5 June 1987) widespread has it now become? I should also like to know the reasons why certain Member States have still not introduced the passport. Does the Commission also realize that in a All aspects related to the frequency allocations are to be number of Member States the European passport is not viewed in the context of the ITU (International regarded as fully valid in certain circumstances? Telecommunications Union) convention, the International Frequency Registration Board (IFRB), the CCIR (Comite Consultatif International des Radiocommunications) and the Radio Regulations. Any initiative from the Commission will therefore have to reflect a balanced approach taking into account the views of the Member States and the possibilities Answer given by Lord Cockfield for adjustments within the globally agreed frequency on behalf of the Commission usage. (11 May 1987)
1. Currently the Commission is, with reference to the 979th meeting of the Council, also working on the According to the information available to the Commission, coordination of negotiating positions of the Member seven Member States are now issuing the European passport States within the international organizations dealing provided for in the resolution of 23 June 1981: Belgium, with telecommunications. As an example, the Denmark, France, Greece, Ireland, Italy and Luxem WARC-87-HF (World Administrative Radio bourg. Conference/High Frequency) positions have been discussed at a recent meeting of the SOGT (Senior Five Member States still have to introduce the European Officials Group Telecommunications'). passport. Under the terms of a supplementary resolution of 14 July 1986, Spain and Portugal are required to start 2. The current frequency allocations for broadcast for the introducing the passport on 1 January 1989 at the latest. individual Member States also takes into account Because of the discussions regarding the insertion of a relations to the rest of Europe. Therefore it is not optimal machine-readable page the introduction of the passport in to isolate the Member States transmitting frequency Germany will not begin until 1988 and in the United allocations from the continental or global view. Kingdom until mid-1988. The Netherlands will not be introducing the passport until 1988. 3. The time schedule for a Commission initiated action on frequency regulations will have to follow the ITU calendar as even a regional conference would involve The Member States have not informed the Commission of many more countries than those of the EEC or how much progress they have made in issuing the European CEPT-countries. passport, which in law is still a national passport harmonized only in design and appearance. 4. The Commission considers that Article 100 of the EEC Treaty (Article 100 A as amended by the Single European The Commission is not aware of the fact reported by the Act) does give a sufficient legal basis for Community Honourable Member that a number of Member States do not harmonization in this field. recognize the European passport as fully valid.
As the Commission is cooperating with the CEPT (Conference Europeenne des Administrations des Postes et Telecommunications) in the framework of its telecommunications policy and is currently dealing with the execution of priority issues of this policy, the Commission is currently not in a position to indicate when an intervention on this specific matter could eventually be envisaged. WRITTEN QUESTION No 2757/86 by Mr Lambert Croux (PPE—B) to the Commission of the European Communities (27 February 1987) WRITTEN QUESTION No 2733/86 (87/C 270/69) by Mr Jaak Vandemeulebroucke (ARC—B) to the Commission of the European Communities Subject: Recycling of chemical waste (27 February 1987) (87/C 270/68) The Commission recently had a number of studies carried out into the possibility of recycling chemical waste and nickel/cadmium and mercury batteries. Subject: European passport
Can the Commission say what progress has been made in the Can the Commission say which bodies carried out these introduction of the European passport in the various studies and whether there are already any tangible results? 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/41
Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis WRITTEN QUESTION No 2765/86 on behalf of the Commission by Mr Willy Kuijpers (ARC—B) (2 June 1987) to the Commission of the European Communities (27 February 1987) The Commission recently had the following studies carried (87/C 270/71) out in the field referred to by the Honourable Member: — 'Recycling of chemical wastes in the European Community' (by Environmental Resources Limited), Subject: Use of somatotropins for dairy cattle 1985, — 'Management, collection and recycling of mercury The Netherlands Minister for Agriculture has decided, in batteries' (by Herbert Marcus), 1984, agreement with the State Secretary for Public Health, to — 'Cadmium recovery from scrap nickel-cadmium batteries introduce a provisional ban on biotechnically produced in the EEC: scope and economics' (by Metra Consulting hormone products. When given to dairy cattle these Limited), 1985. products, known as somatotropins, can increase the milk yield by 20 %. They believe that there are still a number of The conclusions of these studies were used in the preparation doubts about somatotropins, including the formation of of a proposal for a Council Directive on batteries containing residues, with traces remaining in the milk or meat of animals dangerous substances, which should be submitted to the that are treated with the hormone. Consequently, the Council shortly, and more generally in the preparation of the somatotropins will not for the time being be considered for Fourth Action Programme on the Environment (1). registration in the Netherlands under the animal medicine act. (») OJNoC70, 18. 3. 1987.
Can the Commission say:
— whether the use of somatotropins is permitted in any Community country,
— whether there has been any research into the effects on WRITTEN QUESTION No 2764/86 consumers of ingesting somatotropins and if so what by Mrs Undine-Uta Bloch von Blottnitz (ARC—D) were the findings? to the Commission of the European Communities (27 February 1987) (87/C 270/70)
Subject: Release of ozone Answer given by Mr Andriessen on behalf of the Commission During the degasification of the coolant used in nuclear (25 June 1987) power stations, which has to be carried out twice a year, large quantities of ozone are released.
What concentrations are involved? There is an increasing interest being shown within the Community and on a worldwide basis in relation to the use of new products and techniques for increasing agricultural productivity.
Answer given by Mr Narjes on behalf of the Commission The Commission is following these developments closely and (26 May 1987) will continue to do so.
The gases emitted more or less continuously by a PWR power At present, to the knowledge of the Commission, the station will bring about the formation of a certain amount of so-called 'somatotropins' which are being developed to ozone in the atmosphere. increase milk productivity of dairy cows are not yet permitted in any Member State of the Community. The amount produced is reckoned to be 180 kg per annum per power station (*). The ozone formed is spread As previously indicated in response to the Honourable throughout the air into which the gases disperse after Member's questions, the Commission will study all evidence emission. presented to it concerning these and similar substances. (*) Atomwirtschaft — February 1985. No C 270/42 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87
WRITTEN QUESTION No 2805/86 From the point of view of patients, use of genetically- by Mr Benedikt Harlin (ARC—D) engineered human insulin presents no particular risks and should contribute towards a reduction in the risks of to the Commission of the European Communities immunological reactions to and of impurities being present in (5 March 1987) products of porcine origin. (87/C 270/72) 4. At various times there has been a shortage of insulin and there is a possibility of shortage in the future, particularly Subject: Industrial production of genetically-engineered should market forces lead to a reduction in the slaughter of human insulin pigs.
1. Where in the European Community is 6. The Commission does not have detailed information genetically-engineered human insulin being produced and on the prices of different forms of insulin. However, it should marketed, and which companies are producing and be noted that so-called 'conventionally-produced pig insulin' marketing it? is available in a variety of forms, including some very highly purified products. The limited information available suggests that the price of genetically-engineered human 2. Which firms in the EC have applied for permission to insulin is broadly comparable to the price of these highly produce and market genetically-engineered human insulin? purified products.
3. What risks are associated with the industrial 7. Comparative studies would have to be undertaken in production of genetically-engineered human insulin — at the order to obtain marketing authorization for genetically- workplace, for patients who take it, and for the engineered human insulin. The Commission does not have environment? detailed knowledge of the results of such studies nor of the extent to which they have been published in scientific 4. Is there currently a shortage of insulin produced by journals. conventional methods (pig insulin), or is such a shortage anticipated?
5. Is human insulin produced through genetic engineering methods currently being imported and, if so, from which country and company and into which Member States?
6. What is the market price of genetically-engineered human insulin compared with conventionally-produced pig WRITTEN QUESTION No 2808/86 insulin? by Mr William Newton Dunn (ED—GB) to the Commission of the European Communities 7. Have there been any studies comparing genetically- (5 March 1987) engineered human insulin with conventionally-produced insulin in terms of rejection response and other factors which (87/C 270/73) would prove the clinical superiority of one over the other?
Subject: Prices charged for US civilian aircraft manufactured by the Boeing Aircraft Company, Seattle
Answer given by Lord Cockfield Given the total production of 707, 727, 737 and 757 aircraft on behalf of the Commission to date by the Boeing Aircraft Company, Seattle, will the (9 June 1987) Commission estimate the notional subsidy in the price charged for each aircraft resulting from US Department of Defense research and development contracts with the Boeing 1,2 and 5. So far as the Commission is aware, the firm Eli Aircraft Company, Seattle? Lilly has obtained authorization to market genetically- engineered human insulin in all the Member States and no Will the Commission request the Community delegation in other company has so far been granted a marketing Washington to obtain a list of the contracts and their total authorization for such a product. At the present time all value from 1945 to the present time? Such contracts should Community requirements are met by imports from the relate to airframe, wing, engines, materials, materials United States. joining, production engineering and computer aided design. 3. So far as the Commission is aware, the production of genetically-engineered insulin does not give rise to particular How many Boeing passenger aircraft have been purchased by risks for workers or for the environment. the US Department of Defense? How many Boeing aircraft, 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/43 based on civil airliner airframes and adapted for specific Answer given by Mr Andriessen defence tasks, have been purchased by the US Department of on behalf of the Commission Defense, e.g. freight aircraft and aerial fuel tankers? (22 May 1987)
The Commission acknowledges that the proportion of stocks of surplus produce which is distributed under special terms to the least well-off section of the population is not significant. Answer given by Mr Narjes It would however add that the range of instruments which on behalf of the Commission permits this form of distribution is already extensive and is (1 June 1987) being developed progressively. The Commission would also point out that although the 1. The United States' civil aircraft industry undoubtedly measures taken by the Community to make food available receives indirect aid from research and development free, or at special prices, to the poorer sections of the contracts placed by the Department of Defense, among population are related to the existence of large stocks of others, in that many of the developments in question can be various foods in the Community, the Commission does not transferred direct to the production of civil aircraft. consider these actions as stock disposal measures. Its approach to such actions, including those initiated by it following the exceptionally cold weather experienced earlier 2. The Commission has carried out a general analysis of this year, is one based essentially on social considerations. In the benefits due to these military contracts but considers that this connection it must be recognized that even when for the time being it would not be expedient to publish a relatively small quantities of produce are made available quantified estimate of the subsidy either in total terms or, outside the normal distribution channels there is a danger of more especially, per unit produced. displacement of commercial supplies. Any such displacement has negative consequences for the Community budget and 3. From an analysis of the information in Boeing's annual may also have a negative impact on those whose livelihoods reports the Commission is of the opinion that about 30 % of are dependent upon food retailing. the company's turnover derives from sales of military transport aircraft to the US Department of Defense.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 2870/86 by Mr Mattina (S—I), Mr Dido (S—I), Mr Rossetti (COM—I), Mr Ciancaglini (PPE—I), Mr Iodice (PPE—I), Mr Borgo (PPE—I), Mr Guarraci (S—I) and Mr Formigoni WRITTEN QUESTION No 2853/86 (PPE—I) bv Mr Jaak Vandemeulebroucke (ARC—B) and to the Commission of the European Communities Mr Willy Kuijpers (ARC—B) (10 March 1987) to the Commission of the European Communities (87/C 270/75) (10 March 1987) Subject: Aid to the shipbuilding industry (87/C 270/74) In view of the fact that the Commission's proposals for tighter control over aid to the shipbuilding industry provide Subject: Community surpluses and the underprivileged for substantial reductions in productive capacity through the shedding of 30 000 jobs, would the Commission not agree At present there are some 12 regulations concerning supplies that it is desirable and necessary for each decision to be of food surpluses such as meat, vegetables, fruit, butter and preceded by full discussions with Parliament and an milk to the underprivileged at reduced prices or even free of exhaustive study of the state of the sector with charge. These supplies are made available to schools, old representatives of the metallurgical, mechanical and other people's homes, relief organizations, charitable institutions, workers affected and with the fitting-out and shipbuilding the sick and those in prison. firms concerned?
In spite of the existence of these regulations, it is obvious that only a tiny proportion of the food surpluses is being sent to underprivileged sections of society and that the regulations Answer given by Mr Sutherland are being implemented either infrequently or not at all. on behalf of the Commission (25 May 1987) Will the Commission state what it intends to do to change this situation and thereby enable the underprivileged to The Sixth Directive on aid to shipbuilding, which was derive greater benefit from the Community's food approved by the Council on 22 December 1986 (J), was surpluses? preceded by numerous consultations. No C 270/44 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87
On 11 November 1986 the Commission held a meeting with WRITTEN QUESTION No 2885/86 the EEC Linking Committee, representing the shipbuilders, by Mrs Undine-Uta Bloch von Blottnitz (ARC—D) and the European Metalworkers' Federation EEC (EMF), representing labour. In the course of that meeting, the two to the Commission of the European Communities sides of industry had ample opportunity to put forward their (18 March 1987) views. In addition, the discussions held within the Economic (87/C 270/76) and Social Committee enabled representatives of the shipping and fitting-out sectors to participate in drawing up Subject: Measures to maintain or re-establish seriously the opinion of the ESC. Finally, Parliament was indeed threatened biotopes consulted; it expressed its opinion on the Sixth Directive during the December 1986 part-session. Commission Bulletin No 7/ 8 1986 states that six projects for Community measures to maintain seriously threatened OJ No L 69, 12. 3. 1987 (Council Directive 87/167/EEC). biotopes are to be carried out.
Will the Commission specify what projects are involved, where they are to be carried out and what types of biotopes are to be protected?
Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis on behalf of the Commission (26 May 1987)
The following table contains five of the projects mentioned in Bulletin 7/8-1986 concerning the maintenance and re-establishment of seriously threatened biotopes. The sixth project has had to be cancelled.
Community Request Total financial Project submitted to the Implementation estimated cost support Commission by ('000 ECU) Share max. ('000 ECU)
Land consolidation in the Lavours France 1. 1986— 100 50 % 50 marsh 12.1988 Protection and improvement of the Bay France 1. 1986— 118 50% 59 of Audierne 12.1988 Protection and development of the Italy 7. 1986— 208 50% 104 Stagno di Mari et Pauli as a habitat of 6. 1989 Oxyura leucocephala Re-establishment and management of Denmark 7. 1986— 280 50% 140 wetland biotopes in the Vestamager 6.1988 polder area Management and monitoring of the Greece 1. 1986— 100 50% 50 Dadia-Souflion forest 12. 1988
WRITTEN QUESTION No 2891/86 Does the Commission think that this arrangement is by Mr Florus Wijsenbeek (LDR—NL) acceptable in view of the fact that the European Schools are very largely financed by funds from the Community to the Commission of the European Communities budget? (18 March 1987) Does the Commission not think that a conflict of interests (87/C 270/77) between the administrations of various schools for one nationality and the European Schools in the Community Subject: Statute of the European Schools institutions' working places ought to be avoided, and, for example, participation by the administrations or governors Is it true that the Board of Governors of the European of the German, French and British schools in the Schools is made up of representatives of the Member States' administration of the European school in Brussels, might governments and a Commission representative? lead to such a conflict of interests? 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/45
If so, would the Commission not regard it as fairer to give the Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis Community total responsibility for the financing and on behalf of the Commission administration of the European schools? (14 May 1987)
Is the Commission prepared to submit a proposal along these lines to the Council, after consulting the European The Commission does not have detailed information Parliament? regarding questions 1, 2 and 3. Its view is that in principle it concerns problems at local and regional level, especially where non-permanent circuits are concerned.
Involving as it does permanent circuits, the Commission Answer given by Mr Christophersen draws attention to the fact that under Directive on behalf of the Commission 85/337/EEC new projects must, as from July 1988, be (5 June 1987) subject to an environmental impact assessment if the nature of the project so requires. This assessment procedure provides for prior consultation of the public concerned and 1. The Board of Governors consists of one representative leaves it to the Member States to decide the ways and of each of the Member States, a representative of the means. European Communities and a representative of the European Patents Office. H OJ No L 175, 5. 7. 1985, p. 40.
2. The Commission is considering this matter in the light of Parliament's resolutions.
3. The administrations of national schools play no part in the management of the European Schools.
4 and 5. The Commission considers that the organization WRITTEN QUESTION No 2901/86 of the European Schools should be improved and by Mr Francois Roelants du Vivier (ARC—B) modernized so that they can keep pace with the political to the Commission of the European Communities development of the European Community. If necessary, it (18 March 1987) will make appropriate recommendations in due course. (87/C 270/79)
Subject: Report on formaldehyde
In its resolution of 11 September 1984 (OJ No C 274, 15. 10. 1984, p. 38), the European Parliament called on the WRITTEN QUESTION No 2900/86 Commission to submit to it a report specifying the legal rules laid down in the individual Member States to regulate by Mr Francois Roelants du Vivier (ARC—B) concentrations of formaldehyde in enclosed spaces and the to the Commission of the European Communities action which the Commission had already taken or planned (18 March 1987) to take on the demands of Parliament. (87/C 270/78) What stage has been reached in the drafting of this report? Subject: Cross-country rally circuits for motor sports
In motor sports, the number of projects for cross-country rally circuits is growing rapidly. Can the Commission Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis state: on behalf of the Commission 1. whether it has information on the number of such circuits (20 May 1987) in each Member State? In response to the resolution of the European Parliament of 2. whether it has information on the minimum distance that 11 September 1984 referred to by the Honourable Member, such projects must be located from built-up areas, the Commission has initiated a study to assess the risks of establishments where silence is a requirement, exposure to formaldehyde; it covers the following points: environmental protection areas, etc.? — effects of formaldehyde on health, 3. the time limit, in each country, for holding the public — determination of concentrations observed in enclosed inquiry which must precede the implementation of such spaces and levels of exposure to this type of pollution, projects? — inventory of methods of measuring formaldehyde, — examination of dangers to health, No C 270/46 Official Journal of the uropean Communities 8. 10. 87
— analysis of methods of prevention and control, However, it is possible that Belgian officials dealing with the public are unaware of these rules and apply Belgian — estimation of the cost of prevention and control measures law to persons who are not of Belgian nationality. and analysis of their economic consequences for the European Community, 2. The Munich convention on the law applicable to names — analysis of national regulations on formaldehyde. has not yet been ratified by Belgium.
This study will be completed in May 1987 and the final report will be made available to the Honourable Member. The Commission will examine the content of the study and its conclusions with a view to submitting suitable proposals WRITTEN QUESTION No 2912/86 to the Council, if need be. In addition, a concerted action programme on indoor air quality has been put in hand by the by Mr Karl von Wogau (PPE—D) Commission in conjunction with the Joint Research Centre, to the Commission of the European Communities Ispra. Formaldehyde is one of the priority substances being (18 March 1987) studied under the concerted action programme. (87/C 270/81)
Subject: Temporary importation into France of a positive organ
On 11 October 1986 a positive organ had to be imported into France on a temporary basis (for a total of seven hours) for a concert in Belfort. The customs authorities insisted that an WRITTEN QUESTION No 2909/86 ATA customs carnet was required and that a customs official had to check that no interference occurred, which meant that by Mrs Margaret Daly (ED—GB) appropriate travelling costs had to be paid. Finally, they to the Commission of the European Communities required a bank guarantee of DM 10 000 for the seven-hour (18 March 1987) importation of the organ into France. Can the Commission (87/C 270/80) say: 1. whether it considers the above described procedure to be Subject: Obligation for foreign married women resident in compatible with the objectives of a European internal Belgium to readopt their maiden name market, and 2. if it does not, what Community regulations exist to cover Belgian law continues to ignore the married name of women such cases of temporary importation of articles from one who are foreign nationals when issuing various official Member State to another? documents although this contravenes private international law governing personal status. Will the Commission intervene and request that all Belgian authorities re-issue documents, which currently indicate the maiden name of Answer given by Lord Cockfield foreign nationals, in the name indicated on the individual's on behalf of the Commission passport? (3 June 1987)
1. The movements within the Community of goods sent from one Member State for temporary use in another Member State may, at the option of the person concerned, be Answer given by Lord Cockfield effected under cover of an ATA carnet. Users of this on behalf of the Commission procedure are required to lodge security and pay a fee. (26 May 1987) As the Commission has no precise details of the case referred to by the Honourable Member, it is not in a position to give a Although the Commission is not competent to answer this detailed opinion on the procedure involved. question, which as the Honourable Member emphasizes, is a matter of personal status, it can provide the following 2. However, as from 1 July 1985 intra-Community information: movement of certain goods, particularly musical instruments, is also possible under cover of a 'carnet', as provided for in Regulation (EEC) No 3/84 (!). This carnet 1. Belgian law prescribes that for official purposes a can be obtained from principal customs offices and no married woman of Belgian nationality must use her security or fee, other than that representing the cost of its maiden name. In view of the rules of private international production, need be paid. law governing personal status, the Belgian authorities must, however, authorize application of the national law I1) OJ No L 2, 4. 1. 1984, p. 1. of a foreign national as regards the name which that foreign national may use. 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/47
WRITTEN QUESTION No 2917/86 lighting in a hypermarket along with a number of others on by Mrs Nicole Fontaine, Mr Michel Debatisse and energy management, pyrolysis of waste, etc. could also be Mr Jacques Mallet (PPE—F) repeated at many large stores. to the Commission of the European Communities On 22 January 1987 the Commission held a briefing session (18 March 1987) for managers of chain stores and of the national self-service (87/C 270/82) store associations. The objective was to compare the experiments conducted by various chains and to inform all concerned about opportunities for improving energy Subject: Energy-saving in hypermarkets efficiency in hypermarkets.
A number of experts and European chain-store managers All the participants were keen to continue helping each other have declared that more rational use of energy in in this way. The Commission is now planning a larger hypermarkets in Europe could bring energy savings of up to gathering, probably in spring 1989. 250 000 TPE/year and would thus cut the annual energy bill by some 70 million ECU. Finally, the Commission is looking into new financing procedures ('third-party financing') which could benefit large Can the Commission say what kind of investments would stores, amongst others. An ad hoc communication on the have to be made by hypermarkets in order to introduce more subject will be put to the Council towards the end of the rational use of energy? year. 0) COM(84) 614 final. Does it plan to introduce measures — and if so, what measures — to encourage hypermarkets to take such a course?
Answer given by Mr Mosar WRITTEN QUESTION No 2937/86 on behalf of the Commission by Mr Pearce (ED—GB) (18 May 1987) to the Commission of the European Communities (18 March 1987) Several kinds of action could be taken to reduce energy (87/C 270/83) consumption by hypermarkets:
— an energy audit to pinpoint any flagrant anomalies in the Subject: Low-cost farming use of energy and put them right without further investment, What view does the Commission take of experiments at the — introduction of automatic control systems, notably UK Ministry of Agriculture farm at Boxworth, England, into ventilation programmers, farming with a low input of chemicals? — pyrolysis to recover energy from waste for space and water heating, — natural lighting by means of roof-mounted dome lights. Answer given by Mr Andriessen on behalf of the Commission A study ordered by the Commission estimated the potential (25 May 1987) energy savings in the 2 000 or so hypermarkets in the Community at around 250 000 tonnes of oil equivalent per The Commission looks favourably on experiments on year. A copy of the study has been sent direct to the farming with a low input of chemicals, such as the Honourable Members and to Parliament's Secretariat. 'Boxworth' project, carried out by the UK Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. These experiments are in Rational use of energy in hypermarkets forms part of the line with the priorities for the modification of the CAP, i.e. Commission's programme on the rational use of energy in the reduction of production costs and the protection of the buildings. A communication defining the broad lines of environment. Experience gained from such experiments will action for the programme was sent to the Council and prove useful to farmers taking part in future schemes for 1 Parliament in November 1984 ( ). extensification of agricultural production under the socio-structural measures agreed by the Council on 2 and The Commission attaches the utmost importance to 3 March 1987, amending Council Regulation (EEC) No disseminating information on successful energy 797/85 on improving the efficiency of agricultural demonstration projects. One particular project on natural structures (*). No C 270/48 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87
It is the Commission's understanding that the UK Answer given by Mr Marin Government will publish later this year initial reports on the on behalf of the Commission ecological and economic implications of the experiment. (22 June 1987) (») OJ NoL 93, 30. 3. 1985. The Commission is aware of the new regulations issued by the Dutch authorities with regard to student support. The Honourable Member is referred to the Commission's answers to Written Question No 2893/86 by Mrs D'Ancona(1) and oral question No H-795/86 by Mr Mark (2).
(>) OJNo C 226, 24. 8. 1987. (2) Comprehensive report of proceedings of conference of WRITTEN QUESTION No 2940/86 18. 2. 1987 (annex). by Mrs Jessica Larive (LDR—NL) to the Commission of the European Communities (18 March 1987) (87/C 270/84) WRITTEN QUESTION No 2943/86 Subject: The financing of studies abroad by Mr Jose Alvarez de Eulate Penaranda (ED—E) to the Commission of the European Communities 1. Is the Commission aware that a new regulation on (18 March 1987) student grants (for higher education) came into force in the (87/C 270/85) Netherlands on 1 October 1986? It was introduced in order to make students less dependent on their parents. Subject: World Hunger Day 2. Does the Commission know that the only persons The recent World Hunger Day once again drew attention to of Dutch nationality studying at higher education the desperate conditions in which millions of human beings establishments abroad eligible for grants are those preparing live as they struggle to survive in extreme poverty. for formal qualifications recognized at Community level as equivalent to Dutch ones? At present the only subjects The European Community cannot ignore this shameful and covered are medicine, veterinary science, pharmacy, shocking fact which highlights the stark contrast between the obstetrics, nursing and architecture. progressive and modern life of the Member States and the negation of human dignity suffered by those who are starving 3. Is the Commission aware that there are no courses for to death. interpreters at university level in the Netherlands and Dutch people who are interested in this field of study (have to) go In view of this, can the Commission say to what extent it is abroad, for example to the Antwerp Higher Institute for cooperating with the humanitarian organizations which are Translators and Interpreters, where there are 82 Dutch trying, on a world scale, to alleviate the horror of hunger in students, or the State University for Interpreters and the Third World and whether there is a Community policy Translators in Brussels? The University of Amsterdam only devoted to supplying emergency food aid to the peoples of the offers a postgraduate course in translating (not interpreting) world who are fighting for survival? and the Institute of Higher Vocational Training in Maastricht also only provides training for translators.
4. Does the Commission not find it strange that, because Answer given by Mr Natali there are no comparable courses in the Netherlands, the on behalf of the Commission Dutch Minister of Education refuses to provide grants for (13 May 1987) students at the above institutes in Antwerp and Brussels?
The fight against hunger in the world is one of the Since it is improbable that training of this kind will be Community's priorities in its cooperation policy; under the introduced in the Netherlands, these students have no Lome Convention it has top priority. This involves not only prospect of receiving grants and will have to remain operations to provide immediate assistance to stricken completely dependent on their parents (under the established populations but also projects to strengthen the medium-term arrangements for family allowances), which is contrary to and long-term food security of the people concerned. the spirit of the Law on student grants. In addition to food-aid operations proper, therefore, it is 5. Is the Commission willing to make its views known to necessary to keep in view the whole range of financial and the Dutch Minister of Education, in an attempt to alter this technical cooperation provided under the Lome Convention state of affairs? and in the context of relations with the Latin American, 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/49
Asian and Mediterranean countries. Efforts are also being 1. It is a specific cross-border route which is of particular made to integrate food-aid operations with other significance in the context of a European transport policy cooperation schemes so as to give short-term assistance and merits special attention from the Commission. activities a more lasting impact. 2. This rail link is mentioned in the study entitled Under its food-aid programme, the Community provides Meuse—Rhine—Euregio. This study was handed over substantial amounts of aid to humanitarian organizations to to the Commission in June 1986 and the Commission mitigate hunger in the Third World. In 1986, a total of nearly gave an assurance that it would pay particular attention 75 million ECU was set aside for food aid to Third World to it. countries via non-governmental organizations. This is in 3. In line with the integrated action programme for the addition to the aid provided in collaboration with Belgian province of Limburg, this route also merits international organizations and in conjunction with positive action by the Commission, particularly in measures taken by the governments of the countries bringing its influence to bear on the governments of the concerned. three Member States concerned. Will the Commission therefore state whether it can promote the restoration of the previous direct rail link between Hasselt and Maastricht by intervening with the ministries and /or railway companies responsible in the countries WRITTEN QUESTION No 2953/86 concerned? by Mrs Marie-Noelle Lienemann (S—F) (i) OJNo C 100, 13. 4. 1987, p. 25. to the Commission of the European Communities (18 March 1987) Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis (87/C 270/86) on behalf of the Commission Subject: Anasta project (11 June 1987)
A project exists known as Anasta, the aim of which is to Apart from the regional economics of the project, any develop a technology pole for advanced technologies open to decision to open an Intercity link between Antwerp, Europe in the Northern Alps-Savoy area. Maastricht and Cologne would have to take into account the question whether the link could be profitably operated. What is the Commission's view of this project and of its budgetary and financial aspects? This aspect would have to be examined by the railway undertakings concerned in conjunction with their respective governments. It should also be emphasized that Council Decision Answer given by Mr Narjes J on behalf of the Commission 83/418/EEC of 25 July 1983 ( ) specifically provides that the railway undertakings shall have commercial (IS May 1987) independence in matters concerning the international carriage of passengers. Since the Commission has not been officially informed of the Anasta project, it cannot comment on its budgetary and In this connection it should be noted that the Commission has financial aspects. no formal authority in this matter and that any intervention on its part would be contrary to the principle of commercial independence for the railways, which it has always defended. (») OJ No L 237, 26. 8. 1983, p. 32.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 2957/86 by Mr Lambert Croux (PPE—B) to the Commission of the European Communities WRITTEN QUESTION No 2958/86 (18 March 1987) by Mr Stephen Hughes (S—GB) (87/C 270/87) to the Commission of the European Communities Subject: Inter-City line linking Antwerp—Hasselt— (18 March 1987) Maastricht—Aachen—Cologne (87/C 270/88)
In its answer of 9 January 1987 to my Written Question Subject: Concessionary fares for pensioners within the No 1745/86 H, the Commission states that the Community abovementioned Inter-City line is not included in the Eurocity network that is due to start operating in May 1987. Will the Commission agree to mount a full survey of Member The rail link question is nevertheless of particular importance States concerning the availability of concessionary fares on for the following three reasons: all methods of public transport for pensioners? No C 270/50 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87
Is the Commission aware of discrepancies between Member 2. The Commission has been looking into this question States and does it have any plans or proposals to unify such for some years from the point of view both of the protection concessionary systems to produce a more universal and of the environment and the free movement of detergents equitable system for pensioners within the EEC? within the Community.
The Commission considers that a general measure at Community level would not be suitable, given the fact that the problems that might arise would inevitably be local ones, Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis requiring suitable local solutions which could only be arrived on behalf of the Commission at in practice by means of a coordinated programme of (13 May 1987) measures designed to have an effect on all the factors involved. The Commission has already undertaken an internal survey of general concessions to the elderly in Member States, which covered the fields of transport, social and cultural activities. This survey will be submitted to Parliament in due course.
Furthermore, on 22 September 1986, the Commission published a report on the harmonization of fare reductions granted on commercial and social grounds to certain WRITTEN QUESTION No 2971/86 categories of passenger on international rail services (*) by Mr Francois Roelants du Vivier (ARC—B) which covered senior citizens, amongst other categories. Copies were sent to Parliament and to the Council. to the Commission of the European Communities (18 February 1987) The Commission is aware of the discrepancies over (87/C 270/90) concessions in the Member States but concludes that the economic, social and legal considerations particular to each one prevent the full harmonization of the various social and Subject: Herbicide-resistant plants commercial tariffs. A Belgian company (Plant Genetics System) has developed a ;») COM(86)481 final. technique for making certain plants resistant to ammonium glyphosate (or phosphinotricine), a weedkiller developed by the German firm Hoechst and marketed under the name 'BASTA'.
PGS claims that this discovery will result in:
WRITTEN QUESTION No 2969/86 1. farmers' spending less on weedkillers; by Mr Francois Roelants du Vivier (ARC—B) 2. better quality food products; to the Commission of the European Communities (18 March 1987) 3. reduced environmental pollution. (87/C 270/89) Can the Commission confirm the likelihood of these three potential advantages and does it not fear any untoward Subject: Phosphates in detergents consequences from herbicide-resistant plants? 1. To what extent is the use of phosphates at present prohibited or restricted by legislation in the various Member States of the European Community? Answer given by Mr Andriessen 2. Is the Commission willing to envisage a general ban, in on behalf of the Commission line with legislation currently in force in Switzerland? (26 June 1987)
The Commission is aware of the work being carried out by Answer given by Lord Cockfield the Company Plant Genetics System (PGS) to transfer genes on behalf of the Commission to certain plant species of Solanocea (tobacco, tomato, potato) conferring resistance to the broad spectrum herbicide (22 May 1987) glufosinate — ammonium. However, in the absence of more detailed information, such as for instance details of the 1. So far the Federal Republic of Germany and Italy have present and projected herbicide programmes and the found it necessary to put a legal limit on the phosphate environmental fate of the herbicides involved, it is premature content of washing powders. to comment on the advantages claimed. 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/51
With regard to the broader question of the development of provide a fair return for carriers. The Commission has no herbicide resistant plants, the Commission believes that it is reason to suppose that the remaining compulsory tariffs do not possible to generalize. Whilst the advantages claimed in not meet these criteria. the abovementioned case would certainly be welcome in the interests of agricultural productivity and of consumer and Compulsory tariffs currently apply between the Federal environmental protection, it is conceivable that in other cases Republic of Germany, France and Italy, and between those the introduction of such resistance into a plant variety could States and the Benelux countries. lead to an increased use of a herbicide and exposure of consumers to higher levels of residues in edible crops and Neither the principle of freedom to provide services within increased environmental burden, which might be the meaning of the Treaty and the case law of the Court of unacceptable depending on the toxicity and eco-toxicity of Justice, nor its application to transport under the common the product concerned. transport policy is affected by the existence of compulsory tariffs.
The tariff Regulation referred to above includes two tariff systems (compulsory and reference) and allows Member States to opt for either system on the various bilateral traffic links.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 2974/86 The Regulation expires on 31 December 1988 and provides that the Council, acting on a proposal from the Commission, by Mr Florus Wijsenbeek (LDR—NL) shall decide by 31 December 1987 on the subsequent to the Commission of the European Communities arrangements. (18 March 1987) (87/C 270/91) In due course, when it has completed its preparations, the Commission will draft and submit its proposal.
Subject: Bilateral road haulage tariffs (>) OJ No L 359, 22. 12. 1983, p. 1.
Is the Commission aware that the revised mandatory marginal tariff rates for road haulage bear no relation to actual transport costs?
Can the Commission indicate the current mandatory bilateral marginal rates agreed on by the Member States and say on what data, whether or not tariff-related, they are WRITTEN QUESTION No 2983/86 based? by Mr Pol Marck (PPE—B) to the Commission of the European Communities Can the Commission also indicate how the effects of these (27 March 1987) rates can be to bring about real freedom to provide services in (87/C 270/92) Community transport?
Does the Commission intend to urge the Member States to Subject: Publication of the Bulletin of the European abolish these mandatory rates? Community
If not, why does the Commission wish them to be maintained 1. Does the Commission consider it usual that the Dutch and does it not consider it would be appropriate at least to edition of Bulletin No 10 appeared at the same time as the draw up a proposal to have them established on the basis of French edition of Bulletin No 11? To what does it attribute objective and consistent criteria? this delay?
2. Can it list the publication dates for this Bulletin for all languages?
Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis on behalf of the Commission (9 June 1987) Answer given by Mr Delors on behalf of the Commission Under Article 10 of Regulation (EEC) No 3568/83 of (10 June 1987) 1 December 1983 (J) the base rates for compulsory tariffs must take account of the average cost of the transport operation concerned, including general overheads where The publication dates for the different language versions of appropriate, and of market conditions and shall be such as to the Bulletin EC 10-1986 are: No C 270/52 Official Journal of the uropean Communities 8. 10. 87
WRITTEN QUESTION No 2992/86 France 23 December 1986 by Mr Luis Perinat Elio (ED—E) German 4 March 1987 to the Commission of the European Communities Italian 5 March 1987 (27 March 1987) Dutch 30 January 1987 (87/C 270/94) Greek 22 January 1987 Spanish 30 January 1987 Portuguese 30 January 1987 Subject: Trade dispute between the European Community English 7 April 1987 and the United States Danish 6 April 1987 The recent statements by the Commissioner responsible for external relations and trade policy, Mr Willy de Clercq, on the likelihood of difficult trade relations with the United The Commission regrets the delays in publication of the States of America during the 1987 financial year give rise to Bulletin, which are due to technical difficulties, particularly some political concern. in the language service. Although the European Community and the United States are, of course, trading rivals in the commercial arena, both groups of States are nevertheless, with one or two exceptions, united by an important political and military alliance, the climate in which will certainly deteriorate as a result of the WRITTEN QUESTION No 2987/86 abovementioned trading difficulties. by Mr Alfeo Mizzau (PPE—I) Does not the Commission think, therefore, that it would be to the Commission of the European Communities desirable to set up a joint, standing committee of the (27 March 1987) European Community and the United States responsible for (87/C 270/93) monitoring and finding solutions to any trade disputes which may arise between the two sides in order to prevent any deterioration in relations between them? Subject: Aid for reconstruction in El Salvador following the earthquake
Is the Commission aware that the Friuli Venezia Giulia region is sending El Salvador a prefabricated hospital which Answer given by Mr De Clercq was once used in the Gemona area of Friuli? Is it considering consulting the technicians in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region on behalf of the Commission who have so admirably carried out the post-earthquake (10 June 1987) reconstruction of Friuli itself, with a view to offering a service to that Central-American country, which has been so hard The Commission shares the Honourable Member's hit? Does it not see the utility of commissioning a group preoccupation with the potentially adverse effects of including the abovementioned technicians to coordinate aid proliferating trade disputes between the Community and for El Salvador from the EEC countries? United States on the overall relationship between the two. It does however not consider that the ongoing trade problems are due to a lack of communication between the two or that they would be alleviated by a higher degree of formalization Answer given by Mr Cheysson of the relationship. Contacts at all levels between the on behalf of the Commission Community and the US are frequent. In addition to the (15 May 1987) formal annual meeting at Ministerial level, there are numerous opportunities for bilateral discussions in the The Commission, which was asked by the Council to margin of multilateral meetings within the GATT, the coordinate aid from the Community Member States for the OECD or the Quadrilateral meetings. Whenever specific reconstruction of San Salvador and which accordingly trade problems arise, both sides' negotiating teams meet convened a meeting of experts in January, thanks the urgently and as often as required. Honourable Member for having drawn its attention to the aid to be dispatched to El Salvador by the Friuli Venezia Visits by Commissioners to the United States and of their Giulia region in the form of a prefabricated hospital. American counterparts to the Community also occur frequently. The Commission has forthwith made contact with the appropriate authorities in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region Depending on the further development of the USA trade with a view to examining the scope for a coordinated aid legislation procedure the Community will, if necessary, effort involving different Community parties working in the intensify contacts with their American counterparts. health field. 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/53
WRITTEN QUESTION No 2995/86 Can the Commission declare with absolute certainty that this by Mr Hugh McMahon (S—GB) competition is not a mere fiction set up in order to pay lipservice to recruitment formalities, the candidate having to the Commission of the European Communities already been selected in advance? (27 March 1987) (87/C 270/95)
Subject: Cultural capital of Europe Answer given by Mr Christophersen In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply to my on behalf of the Commission Written Question No 1976/86 (!) will the Commission (18 May 1987) inform the House what have been the respective contributions by either the Member States or local authorities for Athens, Florence and Amsterdam as cultural There is an upper age limit of 35 for candidates in capital of Europe? Commission open competitions. To ensure that this rule is applied objectively, a date calculated on the basis of the H OJ No C 133, 18. 5. 1987, p. 50. closing date for the submission of applications is specified in each notice of competition.
The aim of the competition referred to by the Honourable Answer given by Mr Ripa di Meana Member is not to fill first one post but to constitute a reserve on behalf of the Commission list of candidates suitable for appointment. Such (18 May 1987) competitions usually attract several thousand applications.
The Commission's contributions to the European City of The Recruitment Division has produced a general brochure Culture scheme (Athens in 1985, Florence in 1986 and entitled 'A Career in the Commission of the European Amsterdam in 1987), which come from Chapter 67 of the Communities', which outlines recruitment procedures. A Community budget were (or will be) about 100 000 ECU for copy of this brochure is being sent direct to the Honourable each city. Member and to Parliament's Secretariat.
The Commission regrets that it is unable to provide the Honourable Member with information on contributions by the local authorities.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 3001/86 by Mr Ernest Glinne (S—B) WRITTEN QUESTION No 2998/86 to the Commission of the European Communities by Mr Fernand Herman (PPE—B) (27 March 1987) to the Commission of the European Communities (87/C 270/97) (27 March 1987) (87/C 270/96) Subject: Study on the EEC pharmaceuticals market carried out by Test-Achats for the Commission Subject: Notice of Open Competition COM/A/482 At the Commission's request, Test-Achats (a Belgian The following sentence appears under Section B 1 (Special consumer association) recently published an inquiry (J) conditions — Age limit) of Notice of Open Competition confirming the results of a study carried out two years ago by COM/A/482 (Official Journal No C 34 of 12 February the European Bureau of Consumers' Unions (BEUC): there 1987): 'Candidates must have been born after 27 March are still enormous discrepancies between the EEC Member 1951'. States in the rules governing pharmaceutical, the prices of pharmaceutical specialities and reimbursement policy. In the Can the Commission explain why candidates born on 24 or light of this important study, what measures does the 25 March 1951 would not be suitable for the post described Commission intend to take in order to standardize — or at in Notice of Open Competition COM/A/482? least to reduce existing disparities in — the rules on pharmaceuticals and sickness, for the benefit of all European Can it say whether the criteria which it uses to determine the citizens, and what deadline does it envisage for such suitability of the officials it recruits are astrological, lunar or measures? solar in nature, or perhaps drawn from the Chinese or Persian calendar? (]) Summarized in Le Vif/Express of 16 January 1987. No C 270/54 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87
Answer given by Lord Cockfield WRITTEN QUESTION No 3040/86 on behalf of the Commission by Mr Leen van der Waal (NI—NL) (14 May 1987) to the Commission of the European Communities In its White Paper 'Completing the internal market' (l), the (3L March 1987) Commission announced a programme of 12 regulatory (87/C 270/99) measures in the pharmaceuticals sector that is designed to meet the objectives to which the Honourable Member Subject: Summary of measures to complete the transport refers. market The Council has subsequently adopted four Directives On 12 September 1986 the European Parliament adopted a relating to biotechnology-derived, high-technology resolution on inland waterway cabotage (J) which included medicinal products — on 22 December 1986 — and the the following request: recommendation on the testing of proprietary medicinal products referred to in the programme. On 30 December '8. Calls on the Commission on the same occasion to 1986, the Commission sent the Council a proposal for a provide without delay a summary clearly showing the Directive relating to the transparency of measures regulating general public what measures will have to be taken for all the pricing of medicinal products for human use and their carriers in the six and a half years remaining before the inclusion within the scope of the national health insurance internal market is completed and how these measures will system. interact to produce balanced market conditions;'.
(') COM(85) 310 final. Six months have now passed. (2) OJ NoL 15, 17. 1. 1987. (3) OJ NoL 73, 16. 3. 1987. 1. Has the Commission taken action to meet this (4) COM(86) 765 final. request?
2. When may one expect the results to be made known? (») OJ NoC 255, 13. 10. 1986, p. 231.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 3009/86 by Mrs Johanna Maij-Weggen (PPE—NL) to the Commission of the European Communities Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis on behalf of the Commission (27 March 1987) (10 June 1987) (87/C 270/98)
Subject: Claims for compensation from Community Point 8 of the European Parliament resolution of 12 countries against Sandoz in Basle, Switzerland, September 1986 on cabotage on inland waterways, quoted following the Rhine disaster in November 1986 by the Honourable Member, actually covers all modes of transport. What is more, it recurs almost word for word in Eleven claims for compensation for the effects of the Rhine points 2 and 3 of the Parliamentary resolution of the same disaster in November 1986, totalling Fl 2,5 million, were date concerning cabotage in road haulage, and in point 6 of recently lodged from the Netherlands against Sandoz in the resolution on liberalization and harmonization in the Basle. field of transport, also adopted on 12 September 1986. Could the Commission state how many claims for When the resolutions were adopted the Commission compensation have been lodged against Sandoz from other expressly stated that it was not in favour of drawing up a Community countries, by whom, and for what sums? table setting out the various measures required to institute a common transport policy with a timetable for their enactment. This was chiefly in order not to distract the Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis Ministers from their main task of negotiating and adopting on behalf of the Commission the instruments required to introduce the various (26 May 1987) measures.
The Commission does not have full and accurate figures on The Commission also repeated its opinion that the successive the compensation claims lodged as a result of the Sandoz memoranda on inland, air and sea transport, in conjunction accident. with the Treaty and the White Paper ('), provided an adequate framework for completing the common transport At the Commission's request, it was agreed at the Conference market. of Ministers in Rotterdam on 19 December 1986 that the International Commission for the Protection of the Rhine Within that framework the Commission will continue to act against Pollution would publish a full report on the effects appropriately as to manner and time. of the accident, including data on compensation for 1 I ) COM(85)310 final. damages. 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/55
WRITTEN QUESTION No 3045/86 Honduras, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Macao, Malaysia, by Mr Michael Hindley (S—GB) Mexico, Nicaragua, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Romania, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Uruguay. to the Commission of the European Communities (30 March 1987) Least developed countries as defined by the United Nations (87/C 270/100) can all benefit; since 1980 they have been exempted from this condition, while ACP and Mediterranean countries of course use the relevant provisions in the cooperation Agreements to obtain preferential entry into the EC. Subject: Community imports of textiles
For non-MFA products, GSP access is available on the same In the Commission's reply on 16 September 1986 to my basis as in the EC's scheme for industrial products i.e. Written Question No 304/86 (*), it was stated that GSP member countries of the Group of 77, China and 25 imports constituted 12% in weight of the total imports of dependent territories. Taiwan is not and has never been a textiles and clothing by the Community. beneficiary under any part of the EC's GSP scheme, including the regulation in textile products. Would the Commission now inform Parliament to which developing countries GSP treatment is extended? Finally for jute and coir products there have always been special conditions, eligibility to benefit having been limited to India, Sri Lanka and Thailand and the least developed Is the Commission aware that the USA has greatly reduced countries. GSP duty-free import benefits to a number of countries, including Taiwan and South Korea, on the ground inter alia The US GSP scheme has always been constructed on very that these are countries that can no longer be accurately different lines from the EC's GSP scheme and is not easily described as developing? comparable with it. However, since the EC renewed its commitment to the GSP for a second 10 year period with Will the Commission review and update its list of countries effect from 1981 to 1990, and indeed already when it benefiting from GSP treatment? remodelled its scheme for preferential imports for textiles in 1980, the EC has been applying increasingly a policy of (') OJ No C 330, 22. 12. 1986, p. 14. 'differentiation' in the allocation of benefits, i.e. tailoring GSP advantages particularly in relation to sensitive industrial and textile products even more closely to the real needs and attainments of the developing countries concerned.
This policy is based on the recognition that not merely are there increasing differences between developing countries in Answer given by Mr De Clercq their economic and trade performance, but that there can on behalf of the Commission also be substantial differences between the various sectors (17 June 1987) inside a particular developing country: in the GSP textile sector the offer to dominant suppliers such as Hong Kong, Macao and South Korea has been since 1980 very restricted The basis on which the EC accords tariff preferences to and similarly to State trading countries such as Romania and developing countries under its GSP scheme for textiles China: by contrast poorer countries like India and Pakistan remains essentially that introduced in the GSP scheme for as well as the smaller Latin American suppliers have been 1980 and renewed in the GSP schemes applied in each given much more liberal access. subsequent year, which has been repeatedly endorsed by the European Parliament, most recently in the opinion on the Commission's proposals for the EC's 1987 GSP scheme, adopted in Strasbourg on 17 November 1986.
In considering eligibility to benefit from generalized preferences, a fundamental distinction has been drawn WRITTEN QUESTION No 3047/86 between products which fall within the ambit of the Multifibre Agreement and other textile products. by Mr Ernest Glinne (S—B) to the Commission of the European Communities For MFA products, GSP treatment has been conditional (30 March 1987) upon the developing country or territory having signed a (87/C 270/101) bilateral self-restraint agreement with the EC under the umbrella of the MFA or if it is a comparative minor exporter giving an undertaking of similar effect but of less formal Subject: Possible danger from Tipp-Ex nature. The following is the complete list of benenficiaries of the EC's GSP scheme in 1987: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, According to Le Peuple of 23 February 1987, the provincial Chile, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala, coordinators for the medical inspection of non-State schools No C 270/56 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87 have issued a recommendation to the Limburg school Royal Air Force Chinook crashed in the Falklands killing directors that they ban the use in their establishments of the seven passengers. According to press reports, at least 100 product known as 'Tipp-Ex', since the thinner used is people have been killed in five years in fatal accidents reported to contain a dangerous product which could cause involving Chinooks. The common factor appears to be faulty cerebral lesions. propeller synchronization in several helicopter models. A North American jury found that the helicopter was, for this What is the Commission's view on this matter? reason, intrinsically unsafe (although its decision was reversed on appeal). Although on several occasions the military and civil authorities have grounded their Chinook helicopters in order to carry out investigations following Answer given by Mr Marin accidents, the disasters have continued to occur. on behalf of the Commission Opinions are divided on the reliability of this helicopter, and, (3 June 1987) since RAF and Boeing teams are carrying out investigations in the Falklands, can the Commission say what contribution The container of the Tipp-Ex product clearly indicates that it is making to the technical research being carried out by the one of the solvents used is 1,1,1-Trichloroethane. This public authorities, aeronautic companies and civil airline substance was classified at Community level as a 'toxic companies concerned. What were the findings and what substance' within the meaning of Council Directive conclusions have been drawn concerning the protection and 67/548/EEC on the approximation of laws, regulations and safety of passengers? administrative provisions relating to the classification, packaging and labelling of dangerous substances (1). The labelling on the Tipp-Ex container meets the requirements of Council Directive 73/173/EEC of 4 June 1973 on the approximation of Member States' laws, regulations and Answer given by. Lord Cockfield administrative provisions relating to the classification, on behalf of the Commission packaging and labelling of dangerous preparations (17 June 1987) ''solvents) (2).
The Commission is aware that such products may give rise to The Commission does not participate in technical misuse, such as sniffing. It is one of the most difficult investigations relating to aircraft accidents. In the case of civil problems to combat in the field of drug abuse, as the aircraft at least, participation is governed by Annex 13 to the Commission stated in its reply to Written Question No Convention on International Civil Aviation under whose 1858/86 by Sir James Scott-Hopkins (3). provisions the State where the accident occurs invites the various States in which the aircraft was built, registered and It is difficult for the Commission to judge the extent of the operated to take part in the investigation. problem at local level and to deliver an opinion on the appropriate measures to be taken. Nevertheless, the Commission monitors the results of this
1 type of investigation and the measures taken to prevent the I ) OJNo L 196, 16. 8. 1967, p. 1. recurrence of such accidents. (2) OJ NoL 189, 11. 7. 1973, p. 7. (3) OJ No C 157, 15. 6. 1987. Where the recent Chinook helicopter accidents are concerned, the conclusions of the surveys have not yet been published.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 3049/86 by Mr Ernest Glinne (S—B) to the Commission of the European Communities (30 March 1987) WRITTEN QUESTION No 3051/86 (87/C 270/102) by Mr Ben Visser (S—NL) to the Commission of the European Communities Subject: Manifest unsafety of the Boeing Chinook (30 March 1987) helicopter (87/C 270/103)
In November 1982 a Chinook CH-47C American Army helicopter carrying 46 passengers crashed near Mannheim. Subject: Irregularities concerning the implementation of the In May 1984 a British Airways Chinook went down near the present quota system for iron and steel products Shetland Islands killing dozens of civilian passengers. In November 1986 a British International Helicopters Chinook The correct implementation of the provisions of the ECSC plunged into the sea near Sumburgh in the Shetland Islands Treaty is primarily the Commission's responsibility. This causing a further 40 deaths. At the end of February 1987 a applies in particular to the correct and fair implementation of 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/57
Article 58 of the ECSC Treaty, since this article gives the This was because the deterioration in the world market Commission far-reaching powers in allocating production which was already being felt meant that the more of its quota and supply quotas within the steel sector as a whole and to a company exported, the worse its position. individual undertakings in particular. The Council did not adopt the Commission's proposal which On the basis of recent developments is it not fair to say that it did not regard as an essential measure. the existing quota system is increasingly leading to inflexibility and irregularities and that adjustments are Since then there has been a further significant drop in exports therefore necessary? and the ratio between export costs and earnings has seriously deteriorated. Thus undertakings with a poor I/P ratio are at 1. Does the Commission still take the view, expressed in its an even worse disadvantage and experience particularly communication on the introduction of a system of serious difficulties. production quotas after 31 December 1985 (!), that adjustment of the I/P ratio (that is to say the ratio The Commission is therefore considering the advisability of a between the production volume which may be marketed decision to remedy the difficulties which undertakings, within the Community and the total authorized particularly those with poor I/P ratios, are having in using up production volume) to the market conditions of recent their export quotas. years is 'indispensable', all the more so since this is based on the 1977 to 1979 reference period? 4 and 5. The Honourable Member's questions on the transfer of references under Article 15 (2) and (3) of Decision No 3485/85/ECSC, give rise to the observations below. 2. Does the Commission still hold the view set out in its communication that the ratio between delivery and production quotas should be raised to a level which is at To prevent massive transfers of references from category Ic to most 10% below the Community average in respect of other flat product categories immediately following the undertakings for which the existing ratio is for historical removal of the former from the quota system — which would reasons particularly unfavourable? have resulted in serious dictortions — the Commission decided to prohibit such transfers for the time being (!).
3. If the reply to the above two questions is affirmative why This Commission Decision was contested by some has the Commission not carried out these adjustments to undertakings which brought an action before the Court of date? Justice.
4. What policy has the Commission followed concerning The Commission is now reviewing the grounds for its requests under Article 15 (2) and (3) of Commission Decision of 19 November 1986 prohibiting transfers. Decision No 3485/85/ECSC (2) concerning the transfer of reference products from categories which were/ are on As regards transfers of references from categories is respect of the point of being taken out of the quota system to which liberalization is envisaged, the problem should be product categories which are, in principle, subject to considered in the context of restructuring. Article 15 (2) and quotas until the end of 1987? (3) lays down that references may only be transferred subject to the production capacity for the original categories being 5. Does the Commission not consider it more correct to dismantled. In this sense the provisions of Article 15 are a disallow such transfers in future, since they amount to an major incentive to restructuring. Hence, for economic and abuse of the progressive relaxation of the quota system legal reasons the Commission cannot refuse to authorize such and impose totally arbitrary losses of quotas for requests to transfer references. competing producers? (') Decision No 3524/86/ECSC of 19 November 1986 (OJ No I1) COM(85) 509 final, 25 September 1985. L 325, 20. 11. 1986, p. 25). (2) OJ Nfo L 340, 18. 12. 1985, p. 5.
Answer given by Mr Narjes on behalf of the Commission WRITTEN QUESTION No 3071/86 (10 June 1987) by Mrs Marijke Van Hemeldonck (S—B) to the Commission of the European Communities 1 and 3. When presenting its proposals to the Council in (30 March 1987) October 1985 for determining the quota system to apply (87/C 270/104) from 1 January 1986, the Commission envisaged inter alia readjusting the references for those undertakings where the ratio between the proportion of the quota intended for Subject: Duties of diplomats' wives delivery in the common market and the production quota was significantly below the Community average (over Can the Commission draw up a comparative table showing 10%). the status of spouses of diplomats representing the various No C 270/58 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87
Member States and the wives of Community representatives WRITTEN QUESTION No 3078/86 in countries outside the Community? by Mr Olivier d'Ormesson (DR—F) Can the Commission indicate which of the diplomat's duties to the Commission of the European Communities his employer expects the diplomat's spouse to perform and (30 March 1987) whether any remuneration is paid for the performance of such duties? (87/C 270/106)
Subject: White Paper of the Committee of Common Market Automobile Constructors Answer given by Mr De Clercq on behalf of the Commission What action does the Commission propose to take on the (29 June 1987) White Paper of the Committee of Common Market Automobile Constructors concerning the effects of the The spouses of Commission representatives posted in application of the Single Act on their operations? non-member countries are not accorded any specific status by the Commission.
The host country extends to the spouses of members of Answer given by Lord Cockfield diplomatic missions the customary privileges and immunities on behalf of the Commission where such spouses have no occupation. (11 June 1987)
The Honourable Member's other questions do not come The Commission has received a copy of the CCMC/CLCA within the Commission's jurisdiction. 'White Book' which concerns Japan but which does not refer to the Single European Act. The CCMC/CLCA did, however, hold a conference on the Single European Act in November 1986.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 3073/86 The Community car industry has forwarded to the Commission several position papers concerning the practical by Mrs Marijke Van Hemeldonck (S—B) implementation of the Single European Act (in particular to the Commission of the European Communities Article 100A). (30 March 1987) The Commission is confident that the provisions of Article (87/C 270/105) 100 A will speed up the completion of the internal market and will thus create a more favourable climate for European car Subject: The way in which women organize their time production. Has the Commission already carried out a comparative study of the way in which women organize their time in the various Member States?
If not can the Commission carry out such a study? WRITTEN QUESTION No 3086/86 by Mrs Undine-Uta Bloch von Blottnitz (ARC—D) Answer given by Mr Marin to the Commission of the European Communities on behalf of the Commission (2 April 1987) (29 June 1987) (87/C 270/107)
The Commission has already published a study on the subject Subject: Euratom inspections at Alkem and Nukem, Federal of 'Sharing of occupational, family and social Republic of Germany responsibilities', which was carried out at its request by Ms Hedwige Peemans-Poullet in 1984. This study devotes In his letter of 8 July 1986 to the Parliament's Energy itself to the interrelationship, in terms of time, between Committee, Commissioner Mosar writes that the Alkem and women's working lives, their family obligations and any Nukem nuclear plants in Hanau (Federal Republic of social or other leisure activities. A copy of the report is being Germany) are subject to inspections by both Euratom and the sent directly to the Honourable Member and to the IAEA. In the Commission's memorandum on Alkem and Secretariat general of the Parliament. Nukem the Commission states, in point 9, that there is no reason to suppose that nuclear fuels are being used anything The European Foundation for the Improvement of Living other than the planned purposes. However, inspectors from and Working Conditions published, also in 1984, a 'Survey the International Atomic Energy Authority (IAEA) state that of research work on the interrelationship between working it was impossible to achieve the general aim of their time and leisure time in Europe'. The Foundation is inspection, viz. to ascertain in good time whether any fuel is continuing its work in this area and will be publishing any being diverted from its intended use. new results as soon as they become available. 1. How does the Commission explain this difference in the assessments from the two inspections? 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/59
2. From what date are inspections also to be carried out in In 1983 it submitted a proposal for a Council Directive laying the Federal Republic's plutonium bunker? down noise levels for railway rolling stock. 3. What is the Commission's view of the fact that the nuclear installations in Hanau are being operated to 2. The standards for railway rolling stock are strictly some extent without authorization, i.e. without governed by various technical specifications established by complying with current safety specifications? the IUR and apply to the rolling stock not only of the Community but of all the countries which are members of the IUR. Standards relating to technical specifications other than Answer given by Mr Mosar noise may have an indirect effect on noise. In view of this the on behalf of the Commission Commission intends to withdraw its proposal until the IUR has completed its work on noise. (10 June 1987)
1. Euratom has no knowledge of any statement by the 3. The data the Commission has on noise produced by the International Atomic Energy Authority (IAEA) to the effect TGV comes from a joint report by the French Ministries of that the general aim of the inspection carried out on the the Environment and Town Planning, Housing and Alkem plant in 1986, namely to ascertain in good time Transport. The table below gives, for different speeds, the whether any fuel was being diverted from its intended use, reference levels (in dB) emitted by certain types of train. could not be achieved. Euratom would indeed be surprised if the IAEA were to make any such statement, in view of the fact that highly effective surveillance procedures were agreed Levels in dB (A) Length at 50 m Type of train and introduced in 1986 in close cooperation between the km/h IAEA, Euratom, the plant operators and the Member State Lmax Leq concerned. Revenue-earning trains 2. The necessary surveillance measures, including TGV 270 200 93 65 inspections and accounting, have for many years already Express trains 200 400 93 68 been taken by Euratom and the IAEA at the installation in Fast trains 140 400 88 64 question (Federal storage facility). Express-parcel trains 100 450 85,5 63 3. The Commission would inform the Honourable Goods trains 80 450 82,5 61 Member that operating licences for fabrication plants fall within the exclusive competence of the Member States; the Euratom Treaty does not confer any powers on the Measures likely to reduce and above all limit the noise caused Commission in that area. by the TGV depend mainly on the choise of track layout, its design and maintenance.
(») COM(83) 706 final. WRITTEN QUESTION No 4/87 by Mr Francois Roelants du Vivier (ARC—B) to the Commission of the European Communities (2 April 1987) (87/C 270/108)
Subject: Noise produced by trains WRITTEN QUESTION No 11/87 1. What initiatives has the Commission taken so far to reduce noise produced by trains? by Mr Luc Beyer de Ryke (LDR—B) to the Commission of the European Communities 2. Is it true that a proposal for a Directive on noise produced by trains was withdrawn from Council debate (2 April 1987) pending the conclusions of a study the results of which will be (87/C 270/109) available only in . . . five years from now? 3. What data does the Commission have on noise Subject: Airbus A 320 — EEC position produced by the TGV in particular and steps which might be taken to reduce this noise? The Airbus A 320 was officially unveiled in Toulouse on 14 February 1987 in the presence of the chairman of the board Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis of directors of Airbus industrie, Mr Franz Josef StraufS, and on behalf of the Commission his guests of honour, the French Prime Minister, Jacques Chirac, and the Prince of Wales. (17 June 1987)
1. The Commission has initiated a study to establish a Under pressure from the American aircraft manufacturers method of evaluating noise produced by trains. Boeing and McDonnell Douglas, the US has been bandying No C 270/60 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87
threats to retaliate against the subsidies advanced by the that brass sheet and strip from France was benefiting from member countries of the Airbus consortium as pre-financing subsidies deemed to be countervailable under US law and or to meet project development costs. was causing injury to the domestic US industry. The estimated net subsidy was 7,2%. In addition, in a separate What is the Commission's attitude to this new US weapon investigation, the US authorities determined that brass sheet against international trade and the GATT? and strip from France was being sold at less than fair value (dumped) and was also causing injury to the domestic US industry. The estimated dumping margin was 42,2%. Anti-dumping and countervailing duty orders on brass sheet Answer given by Mr Narjes and strip from France in the US have been in effect since on behalf of the Commission March 1986 with the consequence that importers must (20 May 1987) deposit estimated amounts of duties corresponding to the net subsidy and dumping margin found in cash with the US customs service. At the special meeting on 19 and 20 March 1987 of the GATT Committee on Trade in Civil Aircraft, the United States assured the Committee, and the Community in As to the much higher rates of anti-dumping duty applicable particular, that it did not intend to bring a dispute of any kind to France compared with exporters from the Federal before the Committee but to clarify the interpretation of the Republic of Germany, Italy and Sweden the Commission has provisions of the Agreement on Trade in Civil Aircraft no information on the method of calculation used by the US relating to government incentives and official aid. authorities and thus cannot comment on the details of the case. One factor which may be relevant however, and which The GATT Committee on Trade in Civil Aircraft agreed to may have played a role in this context, was the reliance continue discussion in order to clarify the interpretation of placed by the US authorities in determining market prices in those provisions. The Commission is playing an active role in France on information provided by the petitioners (US these discussions and ensuring that the interests of the industry) on the grounds that this was the best information European aerospace industry are safeguarded. available to the investigators in the case due to the alleged failure of the French producer to supply all the information required. As regards the Commission's attitude towards the US action, no suggestion has so far been made that the US authorities did not act in this case in accordance with their GATT obligations or indeed with US law. Should such complaints arise, the Commission stands ready to take up WRITTEN QUESTION No 20/87 with the US authorities any issues of principle with regard to the respect of the US's international obligations under the by Mr Luc Beyer de Ryke (LDR—B) GATT. to the Commission of the European Communities (2 April 1987) (87/C 270/110)
Subject: Copper alloys — EEC—USA anti-dumping measures
The United States has announced that it intends to impose anti-dumping levies on imports of copper alloy sheets and WRITTEN QUESTION No 22/87 strips from France, Sweden, West Germany and Italy, as by Mr Luc Beyer de Ryke (LDR—B) Washington believes these imports are having an adverse to the Commission of the European Communities effect on the American industry. (2 April 1987) According to information received from various sources, (87/C 270/111) imports from France will be taxed most heavily to compensate for 'subsidies' paid to producers by the French Government. Subject: Organization of 'Ecurock' by European savings banks What is the Commission's reaction to this new stance adopted by the USA? More than a hundred European rock groups will be giving concerts in scores of towns and cities throughout the Member States from 20 to 28 June 1987 at the initiative of Europe's savings banks. Answer given by Mr De Clercq on behalf of the Commission Access to these rock concerts will be gained only by (19 June 1987) producing a special 'rock' ticket representing the ECU.
The Commission has verified that, pursuant to a These 'Close encounters of the thirteenth kind', open to all countervailing duty investigation, the US authorities found holders of this ticket, which is covered by the savings banks, 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/61 are one way of showing young people the reality of European As part of the cooperation between the EEC and China in integration. energy matters (energy planning), the Commission (Directorate-General for Energy) organizes fact-finding Will the Commission be contributing to this practical scheme missions for high-ranking Chinese officials. aimed at increasing young people's awareness of the European idea through the values which they themselves In October 1986, a Chinese mission composed of experts support? from the National Nuclear Safety Administration (NNSA) of the People's Republic of China visited Europe, at the Commission's invitation. The mission was warmly Answer given by Mr Ripa Di Meana welcomed for several days by the CEA (France), which had on behalf of the Commission prepared a highly detailed programme for the visit. (15 June 1987) In response to the interest shown by the Chinese in this area, the Commission arranged for hospitality to be extended in The Commission understands that on 20 and 21 June 1987 at March/April 1987 to a second mission, which was also Villeneuve d'Ascq and on 27 and 28 June 1987 at Liege, received by the CEA from 5 to 7 April on the basis of a more various events are being organized including a rock exhaustive programme. concert. Furthermore, an expert from the CEA took part, at the The Commission also understands that, during the week of Commission's invitation, in work in Europe aimed at 20 to 28 June, the towns of Namur, Luxembourg and preparing with Chinese experts the training courses for Sarrebruck wrill be visited by the 'Rencontres du 13eme Chinese nuclear inspectors to be held at the Beijing centre. Type', who are responsible for these activities. The CEA is even prepared to send speakers to the Beijing The Commission is not yet in possession of a detailed centre for these courses in June 1987. financial programme request from the organizer of the event, and cannot make a commitment until this is in its Lastly, the CEA assisted in the organization of a visit to possession. France by Chinese geologists concerned with uranium, again in the context of cooperation between the EEC and China in the energy sector.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 40/87 by Mrs Anne-Marie Lizin (S—B) to the Commission of the European Communities WRITTEN QUESTION No 52/87 (2 April 1987) by Mr Michel Toussaint (LDR—B) (87/C 270/112) to the Commission of the European Communities Subject. Visit of a Chinese delegation as part of the (6 April 1987) programme of cooperation on nuclear power — (87/C 270/113) position adopted by France
The Commission recently invited a delegation from China to Subject: Refunds in the pigmeat sector visit a number of European countries which would be able to assist China in its plans for monitoring the nuclear power In view of the fact that production costs for the manufacture system currently being installed in that country. Is it true that of hams are virtually the same in the various Member States, the French Atomic Energy Commission (CEA) has refused to can the Commission explain why refunds continue to be cooperate with this delegation, on the grounds that any differentiated according to place of production? cooperation between France and China must be organized on a bilateral basis?
What steps can the Commission take to condemn this attitude, which is contrary to the aims of the Euratom Answer given by Mr Andriessen Treaty? on behalf of the Commission (19 May 1987)
Answer given by Mr De Clercq Only dried hams of registered name that are manufactured in on behalf of the Commission a different way and at greater cost than other Community (19 May 1987) products in terms both of the raw materials and the production methods used are entitled to a higher level of refund. Any statement to the effect that the CEA (France) refused the cooperation mentioned by the Honourable Member is incorrect. No C 270/62 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87
WRITTEN QUESTION No 68/87 (regions whose development is lagging behind and declining by Mr Hans Poetschki (PPE—D) industrial regions), will not fail to step up its efforts to ensure that the objective set out in Article 35 is achieved as far as to the Commission of the European Communities possible, particularly in "hose Member States where aid to (6 April 1987) infrastructure investmei continues to be a priority. (87/C 270/114) It also considers that part-financing of aid schemes for industrial firms can help increase the portion of Fund Subject: ERDF investment subsidies assistance allocated to productive investment throughout the Community.
Under the terms of Article 35 of the Regulation on the (') OJ No L 169, 28.6.1984 — Council Regulation (EEC) No Regional Fund, the Member States and the Commission are 1787/84 required to employ a suitable proportion (if possible 30%) of ERDF funds for investment in industry, trade and the service sector.
In 1985 and 1986 the Commission (at 18% and 12% respectively) fell well short of this target. Some Member States applied for subsidies to finance investments in infrastructure to the almost complete exclusion of investment WRITTEN QUESTION No 79/87 in industry, trade and the services sector. by Mr Spiridon Kolokotronis (S—GR) to the Commission of the European Communities 1. What precautions does the Commission intend to take in (•6 April 1987) order to ensure compliance with Article 35 in 1987? (87/C 270/115) 2. Is it right to assume that some Member States apply in the main for infrastructure subsidies solely because the Subject: The position of the textile industry and the clothing private sector shows little interest (in subsidies) for sector in the EEC investment in less-developed regions? There have been worldwide improvements in the clothing 3. If so, what conclusions does the Commission draw from and textile industries in 1986. With the data in its possession, the unwillingness of the private sector to invest in the does the Commission consider that the same is true of the less-developed regions of some Member States? corresponding branches of industry in the Community Member States? If not, does it consider that the aid policy as expressed in the support given to 15 projects under the BRITE programme is an adequate one? What measures, furthermore, does the Commission intend to propose, particularly for the clothing industry? Answer given by Mr Pfeiffer on behalf of the Commission (26 May 1987)
Answer given by Lord Cockfield The new European Regional Development Fund Regulation on behalf of the Commission requires Member States and the Commission to endeavour — (1 July 1987) while the old Fund Regulations made this mandatory — to ensure that an appropriate proportion (if possible, 30 %) of the Fund's resources is allocated to productive investment. According to the preliminary information available to Commission, production in the textile and clothing industries in the Community would seem to have increased The practical result was that in 1985 the proportion of slightly in 1986 compared with 1985. Imports, on the other resources allocated to such investment rose to 17%, hand, have increased significantly, especially in the case of compared with 11 % in 1983, and 14% in 1984. articles of clothing.
The apparent fall recorded in 1986 (12%) is accounted for The likely impact of the political support reflected in the aid by the accession of Spain and Portugal, those two countries to 15 projects in progress under the BRITE programme will having concentrated their ERDF grant applications on only be felt in the medium term. infrastructure projects strengthening their structures. For the other ten Community countries, the portion of Fund The Commission is also endeavouring to ensure that other resources allocated to productive investment was 18,2%. projects are supported. It will shortly be examining new project proposals relating to the clothing industry sent to it in The Commission, while noting the current weakness in the response to a second invitation the closing date for which was propensity to invest in regions eligible for Fund assistance 15 May. 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/63
The Commission is considering the possibility of continuing Answer given by Mr Narjes with the research and development activities in the context of on behalf of the Commission the second BRITE programme. (25 May 1987)
At its meeting on 19 March 1987 the Council took note of the Commission report on the initiative of Eurofer undertakings. It asked the Commission to clarify the questions the Peat WRITTEN QUESTION No 80/87 Marwick report had left open and, in particular, to seek, by Mr Jose Medeiros Ferreira, Mr Jorge Pegado Liz, together with Eurofer and the undertakings, further Mr Antonio Fernandes and Mr Antonio Marques Mendes reductions in capacity for flat products and heavy sections. During these consultations the Commission will take account (RDE—P) of the undertakings' profitability and financial viability. to the Commission of the European Communities (2 April 1987) Given the possibility of accelerating the restructuring (87/C 270/116) process, the Commission is studying the possibility of implementing and financing an additional programme of Subject: The campaign against tobacco social aid for the workers affected. These programmes will take account of approved restructuring plans. As 1989 is to be European Anti-Cancer Year, what steps does the Commission propose to take to prevent the smoking of tobacco in public places?
Answer given by Mr Marin on behalf of the Commission (22 May 1987) WRITTEN QUESTION No 83/87 J As indicated in the 'Europe against cancer' programme ( ), by Mr Jorge Pegado Liz (RDE—P) the Commission will submit a proposal to the Council before to the Commission of the European Communities the end of 1988 on rules regarding smoking in places open to the public and at the workplace. (6 April 1987) (87/C 270/118) This proposal will be based on a prior study of national measures regulating smoking in public transport, buildings open to the public and at the workplace. The experience of Subject: Filling of Portuguese staff quotas countries outside the European Community will likewise be taken into account. What are the numbers and categories of Portuguese officials H OJ No C 50, 26. 2. 1987. already employed by the Commission and of those who have yet to be taken on in order to make up Portugal's quota? Of those already employed, which have Portuguese nationality? Is Portuguese nationality a prerequisite for the posts yet to be filled? When will the numbers still lacking be made up, and in what capacities and categories? WRITTEN QUESTION No 81/87 by Mrs Anne-Marie Lizin (S—B) to the Commission of the European Communities (6 April 1987) Answer given by Mr Christophersen (87/C 270/117) on behalf of the Commission (26 June 1987) Subject: The iron and steel industry in Wallonia
The Marwick report has just been published. It does not, however, analyse effects on an undertaking-by-undertaking 1. At 15 May 1987, 222 officials had been recruited as basis. follows:
Does the Commission propose to supplement the report on A: 63, hot rolled steel products? LA: 70, B: 24, Will the Commission be adding any new proposals to this C: 60, report for dealing with the social effects? D: 5. No C 270/64 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87
2. To attain the recruitment target set for end-1988 (end The Commission stresses that it has received no complaints of the transitional period), the Commission has still to about refusals to register Community students on the basis of recruit: the Royal Decree referred to above. A: 20, LA: 19, 2. The Commission is unaware of the existence of B: 15, measures similar to Royal Decree No 438 in the legislation of C: None, the other Member States governing primary and secondary D: 2. education.
3. All the officials listed at 1 are of Portuguese nationality, (>) OJNo C 133, 18. 5. 1987. this being one of the conditions for admission to the competitions intended, during the transitional period (1986 to 1988), for the recruitment of Portuguese nationals.
4. Yes, except for certain Portuguese-language LA competitions.
5. The Commission thinks that it will reach the level required to satisfy the conditions laid down in the first paragraph of Article 27 of the Staff Regulations by the end of WRITTEN QUESTION No 111/87 the transitional period (end-1988). by Mr Jaak Vandemeulebroucke (ARC—B) to the Commission of the European Communities (9 April 1987) (87/C 270/120)
Subject: European theatre festival WRITTEN QUESTION No 105/87 by Mrs Raymonde Dury (S—B) The first European theatre festival is to be held next year with productions being staged simultaneously in twelve towns. to the Commission of the European Communities This is one of the results of a consultation meeting involving a (9 April 1987) number of theatre experts held on the initiative of the (87/C 270/119) Commission in Brussels.
Subject: Belgian taxation and children of foreign parents Who represented Belgium at this meeting and which Belgian town(s) are being considered for these stage productions? 1. What is the European Community's opinion on the Belgian Government's decision to rate children of foreign parents not subject to Belgian taxes on natural persons at 80% of the normal level, for the purposes of calculating 'capital-periods' and subsidies? Answer given by Mr Ripa Di Meana on behalf of the Commission 2. What is the view of the other EEC Member States on this problem in primary and secondary education? (26 May 1987)
The group of experts asked by the Commission to organize the European theatre festival to be held next autumn met in Answer given by Mr Marin Brussels on 17 and 18 January and on 11 and 12 April. on behalf of the Commission (1 July 1987) Belgium was represented at both meetings by Mr Jacques Huisman, Deputy Administrator of Promethea and former Director of the Belgian National Theatre, and by Mr Walter 1. The Honourable Member is referred to the joint reply Tillemans, Director of the Raamtheater. given to Written Questions Nos 1613/86 by Mrs Lizin and 1691/86 by Mr Roelants du Vivier and the reply to Written Question No 1684/86 by Mr Glinne (»). As the Honourable Member states, this festival is to be held in twelve towns; these have not yet been selected. Incidentally, the Commission has been informed that Royal Decree No 438 was abolished with effect from 30 March 1987. 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/65
WRITTEN QUESTION No 127/87 As to the setting of frontiers, this is ruled by the national by Mr Madron Seligman (ED—GB) legislation of the Member States. According to the Commission's information other Member States apply the to the Commission of the European Communities same principle as the United Kingdom. (9 April 1987) (') Reply to Written Question No 1 /77 by Mr Dondelinger (OJ No (87/C 270/121) C 148, 23. 6. 1977, p. 47). Reply to Written Question No 274/78 by Mr Dondelinger (OJ No C 238, 9. 10. 1978, p. 24). Report adopted on 26 March 1980 (supplement 1/80 of Bulletin EC. White Paper on the completion of the internal market Subject: Tax allowances for seafarers in the Community (COM(85) 310 final, 14 June 1985).
Further to my Written Question No 1346/86 (a), and the Commission's answer of 6 November, I should like to raise the anomalies in tax allowances for seafarers within the Community, which are separate from the provisions providing for avoidance of double taxation.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 131/87 Under UK taxation laws, a UK resident, paying UK tax who works on a foreign vessel at sea is entitled to tax allowances by Mr Francois Roelants du Vivier (ARC—B) for the time he works upon that vessel, except when his vessel to the Commission of the European Communities re-enters British waters, when he is deemed to have (9 April 1987) re-entered the UK and is therefore subject to tax. This applies, even though the seamen in question may remain on (87/C 270/122) board his vessel docked at a UK port and not even set foot on British soil. Under Dutch law, I understand, Dutch seamen working a foreign vessel receive a tax allowance for every day Subject: Report on waste incineration plants they are signed on a vessel, regardless of where she lies. In resolution 2-484/84 (J), the European Parliament called on the Commission to submit to it a report specifying which How is it possible to reconcile these different interpretations legal rules govern the monitoring of used air from waste of tax concession laws and does the Commission consider incineration plants in the individual Member States, the this warrants further investigation in respect of its countries where traces of dioxin have been detected in the implication for the free movement of workers in the used air from waste incineration plants, the threshold values Community? beyond which a danger to the public must be assumed to exist and the steps that the Commission proposes to take in this area. It further appears from the UK Government's interpretation that it regards the United Kingdom's frontier as starting at the What progress has been made on this report? three-mile territorial limit of its waters. Does the Commission accept this setting of frontiers and do other (>) OJ No C 274, 15. 10. 1984, p. 38. Community countries calculate on a similar basis?
(') OJ No C 100, 13.4.1987, p. 12.
Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis on behalf of the Commission (16 June 1987)
Answer given by Lord Cockfield 1. The Commission is currently examining the problems on behalf of the Commission of air pollution from waste incineration plants. An exchange (3 July 1987) of information is taking place at present regarding legislation on incineration in the Member States and the data available on the nature and composition of the flue gases. The Commission plans to submit a proposal for a Directive to the The situation described by the Honourable Member deals Council and Parliament at the beginning of 1988 which will with a particular ruling of the personal income tax legislation supplement and specify in greater detail the Community of the UK which appears to differ from the similar ruling in provisions applicable to waste incinerators from 1 July 1987 J the Netherlands. Those differences could only be overcome under the terms of Directive 84/360/EEC ( ). The aim of by a harmonization of such income tax rules. As stated on such a Directive is to specify exact requirements regarding the several occasions ('), the Commission does however not 'best available technology' for preventing air pollution from intend to propose general harmonization of income taxation new incinerator plants, and to lay down the criteria for in the foreseeable future. gradual adaptation of existing incinerator plants. No C 270/66 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87
2. The specific questions posed by the Honourable WRITTEN QUESTION No 135/87 Member, and all other important information, will be dealt by Mr Ernest Glinne (S—B) with in a report which will be submitted by the Commission in support of the proposal for a Directive mentioned above. to the Commission of the European Communities However, as far as emissions of organic micropollutants are (9 April 1987) concerned, the general approach is to specify combustion (87/C 270/124) and secondary combustion conditions suited to prevent their formation and destroy any traces produced. It is not possible on the basis of current knowledge to fix 'safe' emission limits from the point of view of health and the environment Subject: Contamination of mother's milk by pollutants covering all eventualities.
(>) OJ No L 188, 16. 7. 1984, p. 20. Dioxin has made terrible ravages in Times Beach in Missouri, Seveso in Italy, and Vietnam, owing to the massive use of the agent orange defoliant during the war. Minimal quantities of the product can cause skin eruptions, deficiencies in natural immunization, malformation, miscarriages and, according to many researchers, cancer. Along with dioxin, the same chemical family contains DDT, PCB, PBB, heptachlor, dieldrin, etc.: all accumulate in living organisms and are often absorbed in the food chain that leads to humans, who are further exposed to contamination in inadequate working WRITTEN QUESTION No 132/87 and environmental conditions. Residues accumulate in the by Mr Francois Roelants du Vivier (ARC—B) body fats and penetrate the whole organism. to the Commission of the European Communities (9 April 1987) In 1980 Mr Walter Rogan revealed in the New England Journal of Medicine that in the United States babies fed on (87/C 270/123) their mothers' milk took in doses of the abovementioned substances that were higher than the levels permitted by the World Health Organization and the Food and Drug Subject: Ratification.and amendment of the ADR Administration. In April 1986 Dr Arnold Schechter, Professor of Preventive Medicine at the University of 1. Can the Commission say whether all Community Binghamton, New York State, warned that in a few years a Member States have now ratified the ADR (European considerable number of American babies could take in Agreement concerning the International Carriage of through their mothers dioxin residues much higher than the Dangerous Goods by Road)? If not, what steps has the maximum levels declared acceptable by the Centers for Commission taken or does it intend to take to remedy the Disease Control. situation?
2. Is it true that the ADR has been amended so that it now As the acknowledged benefits of mother's milk must be covers all forms of transport of dangerous waste? If so, when maintained, has the Commission carried out or has it did this amendment come into force? been associated with research into the matter in the Community? ^
Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis on behalf of the Commission (22 June 1987) Answer given by Mr Marin on behalf of the Commission (30 June 1987) 1. At present all Member States of the European Community with two exceptions — namely, Greece and Ireland — are contracting parties to the ADR. The In March 1986, the Commission sent the Council a Commission is investigating by what means the ADR could communication on toxic substances in breast milk (*), which be made applicable by all Member States of the is currently being examined by the European Parliament. Community.
2. Yes. The amendments are due to come into force on The presence of such toxic substances as PCBs, dioxins and 1 January 1988. furans in breast milk has been identified in several Member States. This situation is a source of concern both to the authorities and to the general public and the matter has been raised in the European Parliament. 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/67
Examination of the available data reveals that there are as yet The relatively slow start-up of the project is due to its novelty no scientific grounds for recommending the discontinuance and ambitious nature. However, the Commission, in of breast-feeding above certain concentrations of these conjunction with the Greek authorities, is taking steps to substances, with the result that their systematic analysis in speed up implementation by seconding an expert to Crete to breast milk cannot be justified. On the other hand, plans provide technical assistance within the meaning of Council should be drawn up for coordinated epidemiological studies, Regulation (EEC) No 2088/87 of 23 July 1985 (2). some of which could be executed within the framework of research programmes. Moreover, at the abovementioned meeting the Greek Government announced a series of important measures (») COM(86) 197. aimed at ensuring that the conclusions of the Monitoring Committee would be taken into account by the relevant national authorities, particularly at central level.
(>) OJ No C 35, 13. 2. 1987. (2) OJ No L 197, 27. 7. 1985.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 150/87 by Mr Georgios Saridakis (PPE—GR) to the Commission of the European Communities (13 April 1987) WRITTEN QUESTION No 157/87 (87/C 270/125) by Mrs Colette Gadioux (S—F) to the Commission of the European Communities (13 April 1987) Subject: Progress with the implementation of the IMP in Crete (87/C 270/126)
On the same day (13 March 1987) that the Commissioner Subject: Destruction of an oil pipeline in Ecuador responsible for the IMPs, Mr Varfis, informed the European Parliament of the Commission's satisfaction at the progress Is the Commission aware of the very serious economic of the IMP in Crete, the only IMP which is under way, the implications of the destruction of an oil pipeline which Greek financial press (Kerdos, 13 March 1987) presented carries a large proportion of Ecuador's crude oil exports? the results of deliberations between the local technical authorities. 'The outlook for progress with the IMP in Crete What measures does it intend to take, or has it already taken, is poor since, owing to inertia on the part of the central to alleviate the distress caused by this catastrophe? authorities, there is a danger that the money provided by the programme for the island for 1987 will not be used up.' Since How feasible is a specific grant of aid for the rebuilding of the the assessments given by the Commission and the local pipeline? If such aid is feasible, does the Commission intend technical authorities are so greatly at variance, can the to grant it? Commission state what measures it intends to take to obtain a clear picture of the situation as regards the implementation of the IMP in Crete so that the appropriate steps can be taken? Answer given by Mr Cheysson on behalf of the Commission (22 May 1987)
Answer given by Mr Varfis The Commission is fully aware of the serious earthquake on behalf of the Commission damage caused to the trans-Andean oil pipeline in Ecuador. (23 July 1987) On account of the extreme urgency of the situation, reconstruction of the oil pipeline has already begun and is scheduled for completion very shortly. The IMP programme contract for Crete (*) makes provision for a management and monitoring system to ensure proper The Commission is willing, within the limits of available implementation of the programme. It also provides for the budget funds, to examine any request by Ecuador for submission to the Monitoring Committee of regular progress reconstruction assistance following the disaster. reports showing expenditure and physical indicators relating to the IMP. The first comprehensive IMP progress report for The Commission has, moreover, granted 500 000 ECU in 1986, with detailed forecasts for 1987, was discussed by the emergency aid for victims of the disaster. Monitoring Committee on 4 June 1987. The overall implementation rate for this IMP in 1986 was approximately 80%. No C 270/68 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87
WRITTEN QUESTION No 166/87 The amounts for 1987 are currently being considered; they by Mr Madron Seligman (ED—GB) should be of the same order of magnitude as in 1986. to the Commission of the European Communities (') Taking into consideration the economic situation, the request and the real needs of the country concerned. (13 April 1987) (87/C 270/127)
Subject: Food aid to Nicaragua
Can the Commission state how much aid has gone, and is planned to go, to the poor in Nicaragua from the EEC? WRITTEN QUESTION No 167/87 by Mrs Anne Andre (LDR—B) to the Commission of the European Communities
Answer given by Mr Cheysson (13 April 1987) on behalf of the Commission (87/C 270/128) (25 June 1987) Subject: Reduction of the ozone layer and increased risk of skin cancer In view of the problems caused by the conflict in Nicaragua, the population as a whole is unable to cater for its own food In the United States, researchers have recently proved that requirements. The European Community, in a spirit of the reduction of the ozone layer in the atmosphere had humanitarian aid (1), is therefore providing food aid which is directly increased the risk of skin cancer. Can the being rigorously monitored either directly or by Commission say whether this trend has been confirmed in non-governmental or international humanitarian bodies. Europe? From 1984 to 1986, the total food aid granted to Nicaragua If so, has the Commission already devised a programme of by the Community amounted to 35,62 million ECU. This aid action to prevent any increase in skin cancer? consisted of: — direct Community aid (generally the larger element, except in 1985), the level of which has remained constant over the three years in question (approximately 7 million Answer given by Mr Marin ECU per year), on behalf of the Commission — indirect aid, via NGOs and international bodies (Red (29 June 1987) Cross, ICRC, UNHCR, LRCS). Over recent years an increase in the incidence of skin cancer, The sums involved are as follows: probably linked to excessive exposure to the sun, has been noted in Europe. Community food aid to Nicaragua It is difficult at the moment to say how far the reduction in the (million ECU) ozone layer is contributing to this increase. The cancer sub-programme of the Community programme for the rect Indirect Total Dl coordination of R and D in the field of research in medicine and health (1987 to 1989), proposed by the Commission and 1984 7,33 1,78 9,11 currently being examined by Parliament and the Council, 1985 7,24 8,28 15,51 does not, however, cover research into the causes of 1986 7,50 3,49 10,99 cancer.
Total 3 years 22,07 13,55 35,62 Nevertheless, in accordance with the recommendations of the Committee of leading cancer experts set up under the auspices of the European Communities, the Commission will ensure that a campaign is set up to inform the public of the This aid consists chiefly of cereals, milk powder, butteroil, dangers of excessive exposure to the sun ('). vegetable oil and beans, of which the quantities in tonnes in 1986 were: In addition, the Commission will send the Honourable Member and the Secretariat-General of the Parliament the Total (of which direct aid) final version of the 'European Code' on cancer, which was adopted by the European Committee of leading cancer experts on 23 April 1987 and transmitted to the President of Cereals 11 793 5 00000 the European Parliament, Sir Henry Plumb, on 6 May Milk powdepowder 2 642 1 800 1987. Butteroil 882 300 (0 OJ No C 50, 26. 2. 1987: 'Europe against cancer'. Vegetable oil 615 500 Beans 3 731 3 50500 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/69
WRITTEN QUESTION No 168/87 WRITTEN QUESTION No 171/87 by Mrs Anne-Marie Lizin (S—B) by Mr John McCartin (PPE—IRL) to the Commission of the European Communities to the Commission of the European Communities (13 April 1987) (13 April 1987) (87/C 270/129) (87/C 270/130)
Subject: Vocational training for women in agriculture Subject: Projects financed by the European Social Fund in Ireland Does the Commission intend to take account of the increased needs of women in agriculture — whether they are running Will the Commission publish a list of individual projects farms or assisting with farm work — for training in data financed in Ireland by the European Social Fund in 1985 and processing? 1986 showing, for each grant, the title of the project, the implementing organization, the total cost, and the size of the Does it believe a larger training budget should be allocated in ESF grant? 1988 and 1989, and does it intend to take any action to achieve this?
Answer given by Mr Marin on behalf of the Commission Answer given by Mr Andriessen on behalf of the Commission (26 June 1987) (29 June 1987) General particulars on the assistance granted to each Member State are contained in the annual report of the The Commission takes account of the need to adapt European Social Fund. The report for 1986 will be published vocational training to the needs of modern agriculture in a few weeks' time. The details requested have been sent through the general measures listed in Article 21 of Council J directly by the Commission to the Honourable Member and Regulation (EEC) No 797/85 of 12 March 1985 ( ), on the Parliament Secretariat. improving the efficiency of agricultural structures. These measures may comprise aid for attendance at, and organization and provision of, courses of instruction or training for farmers, family helpers and agricultural workers over the minimum school-leaving age, be they men or women.
The Com mission agrees that there is a need to ensure proper vocational training of women in agriculture as well. WRITTEN QUESTION No 182/87 Council Directive 86/613/EEC of 11 December 1986, on by Mr Joan Colom I Naval (S—E) the application of the principle of equal treatment between to the Commission of the European Communities men and women engaged in an activity, including (13 April 1987) agriculture, in a self-employed capacity, and on the protection of self-employed women during pregnancy and (87/C 270/131) motherhood (2), covers the specific problems of agricultural workers, both self-employed and spouses, not being employed or partners, who participate in the activities of Subject: Functioning of the Europe-Latin America self-employed farmers. Institute
More specifically, a Commission communication on The 1987 budget provides for a cut of 60%, as compared vocational training for women (3) has been presented to the with the previous year, in appropriations for the Council, Parliament and the Economic and Social Europe-Latin America Institute. Committee. In this communication, vocational training for women in agriculture is specifically referred to particularly This is the only institute which deals with relations with Latin continuing and adult training. America, in view of the declaration by the European Council at the Hague and whereas at the third meeting in San Jose the (>) OJ No L 93, 30. 3. 1985. 2 Community expressed its wish to strengthen links with Latin ( ) OJ No L 359, 19. 12. 1986, p. 56. America. (3) COM(87) 155 final, 3. 4. 1987.
What reductions does the Commission intend to make in the budget for the Europe-Latin America Institute in 1987? No C 270/70 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87
In the Commission's opinion, what effects will such a cut Answer given by Lord Cockfield have a both the operational and political levels? on behalf of the Commission (26 June 1987) Does not the Commission think it might be necessary to revise the sums set aside for the Institute, possibly in a supplementary and amending budget 1/87? The Commission's programme for 1987, presented to the Parliament on 18 February 1987 by President Delors, provides for the Commission, in 1987, to tackle the four major sectors which are outside the scope of the current directives — transport, energy, water and telecommunications — with a view to securing greater Answer given by Mr Cheysson transparency in these key sectors and to opening contracts to on behalf of the Commission competition from economic operators throughout the (8 July 1987) Community.
Work is at present in hand with a view to meeting this The Commission welcomed the setting-up of the Institute commitment. for European-Latin American Relations (IRELA) and communicated its position to the Council and Parliament in document COM(83)142 final of 21 March 1983.
The Community translated its intentions into practical measures by providing a substantial allocation of budget resources to enable the Institute to begin functioning. The WRITTEN QUESTION No 221/87 Community subsequently reduced its financial contribution once it was satisfied that the Institute would obtain by Mr Stephen Hughes (S—GB) additional resources, notably in the form of grants from to the Commission of the European Communities Latin American governments and institutions or payments (15 April 1987) made for its consultancy services. (87/C 270/133)
The Commission would stress, moreover, that in spite of the budgetary constraints to which the Community is currently Subject: Time taken to answer written questions subject, it has maintained its decision concerning the amount of the 1987 grant (300 000 ECU) and does not expect any Will the Commission comment on allegations that draft reduction in 1988. answers to written questions are forwarded to Member State governments before they are answered, thus adding greatly to the delay between the tabling of a written question and its eventual answering?
If it is the practice of the Commission to refer written questions to Member State governments, what justification does it give for this practice and can it estimate the time added to the written question process by such a practice?
WRITTEN QUESTION No 183/87 by Eusebio Cano Pinto (S—E) to the Commission of the European Communities Answer given by Mr Sutherland (13 April 1987) on behalf of the Commission (87/C270/132) (17 June 1987)
As the Commission has stated on several occasions!1), Subject: Opening up public contracts answers to written questions are sent to the Council in order to enable it to verify the technical accuracy of information Since the Community's most important objective at present is concerning Member States. to establish a large market, the Commission has pledged to take important measures in 1987 for achieving this The Council is given a period of 48 hours during which it can objective. inform the Commission of any observations it may have.
Has the Commission already prepared the special (') Answers to Written Question: No 1616/79 by Mr Cohen (OJ No C 116,12. 5.1980) and No 464/80 by Mr Schmid (OJ No C programmes as promised on opening up public contracts in 206, 11. 8. 1980). sectors still protected from competition, which would constitute a decisive step towards achieving this large market? If so, which sectors would be involved? 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/71
WRITTEN QUESTION No 231/87 routine or illegal shipping or specialized operations such as by Mrs Mary Banotti (PPE—IRL) legal dumping at sea. Whether the discharge occurs in or outside territorial waters is also an important factor. to the Commission of the European Communities (IS April 1987) It should be noted that some Member States have coastguard systems while others do not. (87/C 270/134) 2. At this stage, the Commission does not envisage Subject: Location of nuclear plants forming a Community coastguard system.
Does the Commission believe that Article 37 of the Euratom Treaty gives it sufficient power to influence the location of nuclear plants having regard to the wishes of neighbouring countries? WRITTEN QUESTION No 235/87 by Mr Ejner Christiansen (S—DK) to the Commission of the European Communities Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis (IS April 1987) on behalf of the Commission (87/C 270/136) (29 June 1987) Subject: Translation of directives into national law Article 37 of the Euratom Treaty provides only for an Of the 770 Community directives that should have been opinion of the Commission on Member States' plans for translated into national law, the Member State that can show disposing radioactive waste. Such an opinion is not legally the best results, the Federal Republic of Germany, has binding and does not, therefore, impose any legal obligation translated 578 such directives into national law, i.e. 67%. on Member States. Will the Commission indicate: — what this state of affairs is attributable to? — what the situation is as far as Denmark and the other Member States are concerned? — what plans it has to ensure that the Member States fulfil their obligations? WRITTEN QUESTION No 232/87 by Mrs Mary Banotti (PPE—IRL) to the Commission of the European Communities Answer given by Mr Delors (IS April 1987) on behalf of the Commission (87/C 270/135) (10 August 1987)
Subject: Coastguard systems The Commission would refer the Honourable Member to its answer to Written Question No 2374/86 by Mrs Van : 1. Will the Commission provide information regarding Hemeldonck ( ). the different coastguard systems in Member States which (M OJNoC212, 10. 8. 1987. monitor the discharge of wastes, including hydrocarbons, into Community waters?
2. Would the Commission consider forming a Community coastguard system to monitor such illegal discharges? WRITTEN QUESTION No 263/87 by Mrs Anne-Marie Lizin (S—B) to the Commission of the European Communities Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis (27 April 1987) on behalf of the Commission (87/C 270/137) (10 June 1987) Subject: Iron and steel — outlook for hot rolled iron and steel in Wallonia 1. The monitoring of waste discharges into Community waters is a complex matter and the authorities responsible for At the Council meeting of 19 June, the Commission insisted this task vary from one Member State to another, depending on the further need to reduce capacity, particularly in hot on the different departmental and structural organization. rolled iron and steel.
Monitoring also depends on where the discharges occur and How is this aim to be achieved in Wallonia, particularly in from where they originate, whether land based source, the region of Charleroi? No C 270/72 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87
Answer given by Mr Narjes 1. Has the Commission any valid reasons for maintaining on behalf of the Commission this technical measure that deprives the above dairies of (11 June 1987) the right to aid?
2. What was the total amount of such aid paid in France in There is still substantial surplus capacity in hot-rolled steel the 1985 financial year? production plants. 3. At a time when it is seeking ways to limit the cost of In view of this situation, the steel undertakings affiliated to managing the agricultural markets, why is the Eurofer decided to commission the consultant Peat Marwick Commission continuing to provide this aid? to carry out a survey to determine how far Community steel producers were prepared to restructure their operations on a voluntary basis. Answer given by Mr Andriessen The results of this survey were discussed at the Council on behalf of the Commission meeting on Industrial Affairs held on 19 March. The Council expressed appreciation for Eurofer's initiative and urged it to (16 June 1987) continue along the same lines. However, the potential closures identified for flat products and heavy sections were 1. Yes. The provision referred to by the Honourable still insufficient, and the Council asked the Commission to Member was prompted by a concern to prevent the spread of seek further capacity reductions for these two categories with pathogenic germs which may occur in non-pasteurized Eurofer and the undertakings. skimmed milk or buttermilk. The Commission considers that this concern remains entirely valid. The Commission's departments are at present fully engaged in the effort which the Council has called upon them to 2. The total amount paid in France as aid for liquid make. skimmed milk for animal feed was 14 419 million ECU for 1985, of which 2 310 million ECU was for skimmed milk for The Commission is thus not yet in a position to know on calf feed and 12 109 million ECU for skimmed milk for pig what scale further capacity reductions will be. As for the sites feed. which could be involved, for reasons of confidentiality the undertakings do not wish to disclose which plants could be 3. The Commission believes that the system of aids for closed. Under these circumstances, the Commission does not skimmed, milk intended principally for animal feed was an have sufficient data to answer the Honourable Member's essential outlet for disposing of the surpluses of skimmed question. milk that have been a feature of the Community for the last 10 years.
It is looking into the possibility of adjusting all aid schemes for skimmed milk in the light of the fall in milk production following the decisions adopted by the Council at the beginning of March.
WRITTEN QUESTION No 266/87 It should be borne in mind also that the stock of skimmed-milk powder held by the intervention agencies on by Mr Raymond Tourrain (PPE—F) 30 April 1987 was still in excess of 750 000 tonnes. to the Commission of the European Communities (27 April 1987) (87/C 270/138)
Subject: Distortion arising out of the procedures for granting aid for skimmed milk and buttermilk WRITTEN QUESTION No 267/87 intended for animal feed by Alexander Falconer (S—GB) Certain dairies which, under the regulations governing the to the Commission of the European Communities cheese industry are forbidden to keep a pasteurizer and which (27 April 1987) . supply skimmed milk and buttermilk to independent dairy (87/C 270/139) producer groups, are refused aid for liquid skimmed milk intended for animal feed since the Commission's implementing rules require that, to be eligible for aid, Subject: Payments from special funds set up by foreign non-pasteurized skimmed milk must be used solely as feed for ministries of Community countries to heads of livestock belonging to the dairy itself. This is a form of Third World countries discrimination against these dairies compared to the ones that are eligible for the aid, which they incorporate in the Pursuant to the Commission's answer to Written Question price of the milk paid to the producer. No 2312/86 (J), undated, on the above, will it make 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/73 available to me any information it has on the subject of aid WRITTEN QUESTION No 284/87 to: by Mrs Johanna Maij-Weggen (PPE—NL) — the South African Zulu leader, Chief Buthelezi, to the Commission of the European Communities — the Salvardoran President, Duarte, (6 May 1987) — the Namibian pseudo-government, the Democratic (87/C 270/141) Turnnalle Alliance?
Will it list the amount, the source and the years in which aid Subject: Freedom of worship in Turkey was received? According to reports from Turkey, the following works are (>) OJ No C 91, 6. 4. 1987, p. 29. among those which may not be sold or circulated in that country: — the Gospel according to St John (Turkish), Answer given by Mr Delors — Tekvin (Genesis) (Turkish), on behalf of the Commission — Isa Mesih (the New Testament in comic book form) (IS July 1987) (Turkish), — Dagdazi Vaiz (the Sermon on the Mount) (Turkish), The Honourable Member's question is outside the Commission's field of competence. — an autobiographical work by the evangelist writer Joni Earecson, The Commission would also point out that the answer to — The Samaritans (Turkish and Syrian Arabic), Written Question No 2312/86 by Mr Schwalba-Hoth and others was given by the Foreign Ministers meeting within the — Bar Thomai (Turkish and Syrian Arabic), framework of political coopertion. It is not for the Commission to comment on it. — The Living Bible, — Illustrated Bible stories for children.
Is the Commission prepared to ask the Turkish authorities to confirm these reports and, if they are, why such restrictions have been imposed?
WRITTEN QUESTION No 277/87 by Mrs Barbara Castle (S—GB) to the Commission of the European Communities WRITTEN QUESTION No 285/87 (27 April 1987) by Mrs Johanna Maij-Weggen (PPE—NL) (87/C 270/140) to the Commission of .the European Communities (6 May 1987) Subject: VAT (87/C 270/142) As part of the completion of the internal market by 1992, do the Commission's plans include ensuring that the UK puts Subject: Freedom of worship and education in Turkey VAT on children's clothes and footwear, public transport, food, and newspapers and books, and will the Commission In Istanbul, Turkey, there are a number of Armenian schools say what action is being taken in the area of these items which where children are taught in accordance with Christian are currently zero-rated for VAT in the UK? principles. — Can the Commission confirm that these schools are obliged to appoint Muslim deputy headmasters who monitor all intra-mural activities? Answer given by Lord Cockfield on behalf of the Commission — Can the Commission confirm that Christian Armenian (1 July 1987) children living outside Istanbul are prohibited from attending these Armenian schools in that city?
The Commission will shortly be presenting its proposals on — Can the Commission confirm that Christian Armenian the rates, structure and coverage of VAT, as part of the children not living in the districts in which these programme to complete the internal market. It is not, in the Armenian schools are located are also prohibited from meantime, in a position to comment on individual provisions attending the establishments concerned? which those proposals may include. — Does the Commission realize that this is one reason why Armenian Christians flee Turkey and apply for asylum in Western European countries? No C 270/74 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87
— Is the Commission prepared to call upon the Turkish Navarre in the financial year 1986? If a breakdown is authorities to abolish such restrictions on access to possible, which undertakings were recipients? Christian education?
WRITTEN QUESTION No 286/87 Answer given by Mr Andriessen by Mrs Johanna Maij-Weggen (PPE—NL) on behalf of the Commission to the Commission of the European Communities (8 July 1987) (6 May 1987) (87/C 270/143) In 1986 the EAGGF Guidance Section made a financial contribution, under Council Regulation (EEC) No Subject: Freedom of worship and education in Turkey 355/77 (J), to nine projects in Navarre for the improvement of agricultural structures. The total aid granted was PTA Can the Commission confirm that Islamic instruction is 261 134 355. compulsory in State schools in Turkey? The sectors and undertakings aided were: Does the Commission realize that children of Christian parents who do not wish to take this subject do not advance to higher forms? Sector Recipient
Does the Commission realize that this is one reason why Meat Control de Porciones, Christian Turks flee Turkey and apply for asylum in Western SA Zaragoza (J) European countries. Cereals Conservera Santo Cristo, Coop. Ltd, Caparroso (2) Is the Commission prepared to urge the Turkish authorities to be more tolerant towards Christian children in State Nuestra Senora del Rosario, Bodega Coop., Ablitas (2) schools in Turkey and enable them to forego Islamic instruction without being penalized? Oil mills Nuestra Senora del Rosario, Bodega Coop., Ablitas (2) Is the Commission prepared to call upon the Turkish Wines and spirits Baron de Ley SA, authorities to allow Christian children who, because of the Mendavia (2) shortage of Christian schools, attend State establishments to Fruit and vegetables Javier Virto SA, Azagra (2) receive Christian religious instruction? Agricola San Bias de Ribaforada, SCL, Ribaforada (2) Zumos de Navarra SA, Tafalla (2) Joint answer to Written Question Nos 284/87, Ria Carcia Angel, Cadreita (2) 285/87 and 286/87 given by Mr Cheysson (25 June 1987) (') Project in Navarre, recipient in Zaragoza. (2) Project and recipient both in Navarre. The Commission is not able to provide any details in answer to the numerous points raised by the Honourable Member in her three Written Questions. As regards EAGGF Guarantee Section expenditure the Commission would draw the Honourable Member's attention to the fact that it does not generally have available breakdowns of appropriation by region. It has already pointed this out in its replies to Written Questions Nos 2190/84 by Mr Ebel (2) and 303/85 by Mr Vandemeulebroucke (3). WRITTEN QUESTION No 291/87 It is unable therefore to determine what proportion of by Mr Victor Manuel Arbeloa Muru (S—E) EAGGF Guarantee Section appropriations went to the to the Commission of the European Communities Communidad Foral de Navarra. (6 May 1987) (») OJ No L 51, 23. 6. 1977, p. 1. (87/C 270/144) (2) OJ No C 208, 19. 8. 1985, p. 10. (3) OJ No C 259, 10. 10. 1985, p. 11. Subject: EAGGF aid to the Community of Navarre
How much EAGGF aid was granted to the Community of 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/75
WRITTEN QUESTION No 311/87 Answer given by Mr Andriessen by Mr Barry Seal (S—GB) on behalf of the Commission to the Commission of the European Communities (1 July 1987) (6 May 1987) The Commission has no information to the effect that any (87/C 270/145) programmes to support the dairy industry are being considered in Belgium. Subject: War disablement pensions It has requested the Belgian Government for information in 1. Could the Commission provide, in table form, and this connection and will not fail, if necessary, to define its calculated in pounds sterling, details of war disablement position under Articles 92 and 93 of the EEC Treaty with pensions paid in the 12 Member States, to citizens injured regard to any such measures. during the Second World War?
2. Although British war disablement pensions are paid irrespective of income, is the Commission aware that the UK Government makes a deduction from the basic social security benefits for people with meagre war disablement pensions WRITTEN QUESTION No 322/87 even though the total amount of benefit and pension is well by Mr Robert Battersby (ED—GB) below the Council of Europe's recommended basic minimum income. Does this occur in any other Member State? to the Commission of the European Communities (6 May 1987) (87/C 270/147)
Answer given by Mr Marin Subject: Senior citizen rail card discrimination on behalf of the Commission (13 July 1987) Can the Commission state what steps it intends to take to ensure that all senior citizens in the Community, both male and female, become eligible under the Rail Europ Scheme at The Commission has no information which would serve as a the age of 60 on the railways of the European Community, basis for the table requested by the Honourable Member and thereby eliminating the present discrimination against male is also unable to communicate any other information since senior citizens between the ages of 60 and 65? the fixing of pension rates is a matter for the Member States.
Answer given by Mr Marin on behalf of the Commission (11 August 1987)
The Commission would refer the Honourable Member to its WRITTEN QUESTION No 314/87 answers to Written Questions Nos 1233/83 by Miss De by Mr Teun Tolman (PPE—NL) Valera(J),777/85 by Mr Newton Dunn (2), 1685/85 by Mr 3 4 to the Commission of the European Communities Patterson ( ) and 2179/86 by Mr Visser ( ). (6 May 1987) (») OJNoC31, 6. 2. 1984. (2) OJNoC269, 21. 10. 1985. (87/C 270/146) (3) OJ No C 23, 3. 2. 1986. (4) OJ No C 226, 24. 8. 1987. Subject: Belgian Government policy of subsidizing the dairy industry
The Belgian Government operates a number of programmes to support its national dairy industry. These include the subsidizing of employment programmes and the granting of WRITTEN QUESTION No 382/87 subsidies to promote investment and marketing. by Mr Alfeo Mizzau (PPE—I) 1. What is the effect of government subsidies on the cost to the Commission of the European Communities price of the end products of the Belgian dairy industry (20 May 1987) and hence on pricing in the international market? (87/C 270/148) 2. If the effect of these subsidies is felt in the retail prices of products, does this not create unfair competition in Subject: EEC-USA agreements on maize contravention of Community legislation? The agreements on maize between the EEC and the USA, 3. Is the Commission prepared to investigate this matter? whereby American producers have acquired the right to No C 270/76 Official Journal of the European Communities 8. 10. 87 export large quantities to Spain and Portugal, are causing 2. for two-person pensioner households concern. Can the Commission say whether these agreements Published quarterly by the Department of Employment. will affect the price of maize produced in Italy, where the quantity produced is not enough to meet demand? For all the other EC countries this specific index does not exist.
Answer given by Mr Andriessen on behalf of the Commission (22 June 1987) WRITTEN QUESTION No 398/87 by Mr Richard Balfe (S—GB) The EEC-USA agreement requires Spain to import maize and sorghum, but without stating of what origin. As a result, it is to the Commission of the European Communities not only American farmers who will benefit. (20 May 1987) (87/C 270/150) The action to be taken to implement the agreement necessitates arrangements ensuring that the maize and Subject: Channel Tunnel international train service sorghum imported into Spain with reduced levies are used in Spain and do not find their way into the markets of the other Is it intended that the Channel Tunnel international Member States at this reduced level. At the present time, it is passenger train service operated from 1993 by British Rail, difficult to discern how far the agreement will influence the SNCF, SNCB and other railway organizations should situation on the other markets. The Commission will make conform to the EEC proposals, and how is this to be every effort to ensure that the imports do not lead to achieved. distortions of competition.
Answer given by Mr Clinton Davis on behalf of the Commission (29 June 1987)
WRITTEN QUESTION No 385/87 The Commission has not made any specific proposals by Mr John Marshall (ED—GB) concerning the proposed services to which the Honourable to the Commission of the European Communities Member refers. However, the railway undertakings responsible for the operation of the service will of course be (20 May 1987) subject to all the relevant Community legislation in the same (87/C 270/149) way that they are subject to national legislation.
Subject: Cost of living for pensioners
Clearly the cost of living for a pensioner is different from that for many other people. Thus relatively few pensioners will be paying off a mortgage. Can the Commission state which WRITTEN QUESTION No 405/87 Community countries have a separate cost of living index for by Mr Andrew Pearce (ED—GB) pensioners? to the Commission of the European Communities (20 May 1987) (87/C 270/151) Answer given by Mr Pfeiffer on behalf of the Commission Subject: Intervention stocks (17 June 1987) On 31 March 1986, the stocks (in tonnes) of cereals, butter and skimmed-milk powder shown on the attached list, Among the 12 EC countries a cost of living index for existed in UK intervention stores according to the pensioners is only published in government figures issued on 17 July 1986. What was the level in each location on 31 March 1987? The Federal Republic of Germany: Cost of living index for a two-person household of pension and social benefit receivers. Published monthly by the Answer given by Mr Andriessen 'Statistisches Bundesamt'. on behalf of the Commission The United Kingdom: (16 June 1987)
Cost of living index (all items excluding housing) The Commission publishes statistics on public intervention 1. for one-person pensioner households stocks of agricultural produce every year in an annex to the 8. 10. 87 Official Journal of the European Communities No C 270/77
Community accounts as well as in the annual financial report Can the Commission confirm these results, and also say of the European Agricultural Guarantee and Guidance whether they are statistically significant? Fund.
Since the day-to-day management of stocks is in the hands of national administrations, the Commission does not have Answer given by Mr Ripa Di Meana statistics at the level of detail requested by the Honourable on behalf of the Commission Member. These can only be furnished by the Member State (29 June 1987) concerned. The special 'Euro-Barometer' carried out on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the Rome treaties contained several questions on the political perspectives of the European Community. WRITTEN QUESTION No 413/87 76 % of those who replied to the question are 'rather for' or by Mr Vincenzo Mattina (S—I) 'very much for' the development of the Community towards to the Commission of the European Communities becoming a 'United States of Europe'. Almost two in three of (20 May 1987) those who replied 'expect to be called upon to vote in an election to choose the head of government of Europe' before (87/C 270/152) January of the year 2000. More than seven in 10 of those who reply are prepared to entrust the government of Europe with Subject: Turkish membership of the Community responsibility for economic, foreign and defense policies In view of the substantial differences between Turkey's level within 30 years from now. For 57 % of those who reply it is of economic and social development and that of the 'possible' to vote for a head of the government of Europe not Community, the obvious differences between the structure of of their own nationality. society in Turkey and the Member States and the fact that But only one in four of those interviewed spontaneously cited Turkey's culture and religion are alien to Community custom the name of a political personality for whom they could vote and tradition, what is the Commission's position on Turkey's as head of government of Europe. And more than half of application for membership of the Community? these cited a personality of their own nationality only.
The statistical analysis of the names cited had not been Answer given by Mr Cheysson completed at the time of the press conference. The only on behalf of the Commission available result, by that time, was the number of countries in which the various names had been cited. According to this (26 June 1987) criterion, Chancellor Kohl was at the top of the list, followed by President Mitterand, Prime Minister Thatcher and former The Commission's position on Turkey's accession Chancellor Brandt. application will be stated in the opinion which, pursuant to Article 237 of the Treaty, it will be presenting to the As announced at the press conference meanwhile the full Council. results have been made available upon request at the 'Surveys Research, Analyses' Service of the Commission; the Honourable Member has been supplied with a copy of the document 'Euro-Barometer Dossier 2/187'. The results may be summarized as follows: WRITTEN QUESTION No 437/87 — As to weighted EC-percentages of citations, the rank by Mr Derek Prag (ED—GB) order was: F. Mitterand, M. Thatcher, H. Kohl, F. Gonzales. to the Commission of the European Communities — As to weighted EC-percentages of citations in other (27 May 1987) Member States than their own: F. Mitterand, H. Kohl, (87/C 270/153) M. Thatcher, W. Brandt. — As to weighted EC-percentages of citations in their own Subject: 'Eurobarometer' opinion poll results Member State: B. Craxi, F. Gonzales, V. Giscard At a press conference given on 18 March in Brussels, d'Estaing, M. Thatcher. Commissioner Ripa di Meana presented the results of a — As to non-weighted national percentages in their own special 'Eurobarometer' carried out on the occasion of the Member State the rank order begins with: F. Gonzales, 30th anniversary of the Rome Treaties. He said that 'should L. Tindemans, G. Thorn, B. Craxi. there be an election for a head of government of Europe' the person who had the best chance of being chosen — according In view of the high number of non-responses, one cannot to the results of the opinion poll — was the Chancellor of the regard these results as statistically significant. They are of a Federal Republic, Helmut Kohl. purely indicative nature.