§ Mr. Foulkesasked the Prime Minister what representations Her Majesty's Government have received from any of the institutions of the European Community regarding the legal problems arising from the appointment of Lord Cockfield as a European Economic Community Commissioner.
§ The Prime MinisterNone.
§ Mr. Foulkesasked the Prime Minister what legal advice from outside Government she sought regarding the appointment of a Member of the House of Lords as a European Commissioner.
§ The Prime MinisterThe compatibility of Lord Cockfield's appointment as commissioner with his membership of the House of Lords was initially raised by Members of the European Parliament. It was accordingly considered by the Commission and Council Legal Services. They have concluded that there is no incompatibility in such cases where the Member concerned takes leave of absence from the House of Lords for the duration of his appointment as a commissioner.
§ Mr. Foulkesasked the Prime Minister if she will reconsider the appointment of Lord Cockfield as an EEC Commissioner, in view of the legal problem arising from his position as a Member of the House of Lords.
§ The Prime MinisterNo.
§ Mr. Foulkesasked the Prime Minister what remuneration, benefits and payments of any kind are being made or have been made in the current year from public funds to Lord Cockfield.
§ The Prime MinisterUntil 10 September 1984, Lord Cockfield received his ministerial salary and all necessary expenses incurred as Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster. Since then he has been provided with secretarial support, accommodation and transport in connection with his duties as a United Kingdom member of the next European Commission.
§ Mr. Foulkesasked the Prime Minister under which head of expenditure the current cost of the office, secretary, ministerial car and driver of Lord Cockfield is met.
§ The Prime MinisterThe necessary expenses of both United Kingdom members of the next European Commission will be met from Subhead A1 of Class XIII, Vote 19 until they take up their appointments on 6 January 1985. These include the provision of secretarial support, accommodation and travel within the United Kingdom.