European Community (Budget Refund)

HC Deb 28 April 1983 vol 41 c990

17. Mr. Marlow

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what powers are held by the European Assembly with regard to the United Kingdom budget refund.

Mr. Ridley

The European Parliament's budgetary powers are set out in article 203 of the EC treaty.

Mr. Marlow

If at some time the scandal of the United Kingdom budget contributions to the European Community should be resolved with the other nation states of Europe, and if at that time the European Assembly should see fit to try to involve itself, will my right hon. Friend tell it to get knotted?

Mr. Ridley

I doubt whether using my hon. Friend's suggested language would assist in the process of securing a longer-term solution to the budgetary imbalances of Europe. On the other hand, both we and the European Parliament attach the greatest importance to achieving just such a solution.