HL Deb 11 January 2000 vol 608 cc98-9WA
Lord Judd

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they are satisfied with the administrative arrangements in the European Commission for covering political relations as well as aid, development, trade and economic relations with Africa. [HL327]

Baroness Scotland of Asthal

Since the beginning of the term of the new Commission, EU relations with Africa have been the responsibility of four Commission bodies: DG (Directorate General) External Relations, DG Trade, DG Development, and the European Community Humanitarian Office (ECHO). The Service Commun Relex (SCR) is responsible for implementing the financing decisions for all external relations DGs. We supported reorganisation as part of the reform of the Commission's structures and are working closely with these bodies in order to maximise their effectiveness.