EU Laws (Goldplating)

HC Deb 24 February 1999 vol 326 cc338-9W

Mr. Steen

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what steps he has taken to prevent the goldplating of EU laws by member states. [71942]

Mr. Kilfoyle

Over-implementation of EC legislation—goldplating—may amount to a breach of Community law. If it does, it is primarily a matter for the European Commission. Where the UK becomes aware of such a breach, we can draw it to the attention of the Commission. Direct action by the UK can be taken by the UK pursuant to Article 170 TEC. Wider political, policy or legal concerns would influence whether such action would be appropriate in any particular case.

The Government are committed to ensuring that departments do not add any unnecessary measures—goldplating—when implementing EC legislation into UK domestic law.