§ Mr. Cohenasked the Prime Minister if she will estimate the current level of fraud at the expense of the European Economic Community (i) in Britain and (ii) in all the countries in the EEC; and what proposals she has to reduce the level of fraud.
§ The Prime MinisterReliable estimates of fraud in the Community are not available.
The United Kingdom has taken the lead in pressing for more effective Community action against all financial irregularities. Under our presidency we secured agreement on a revised food aid regulation to tighten control in this sector. When the results of a Commission review into all aspects of Community financial control is completed we shall press for such further measures as may be necessary.