§ Mr. FlookTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what action the British Government are taking to ensure that the French Government pay their fine for breaching the rules allowing British beef to be exported to France. [136898]
§ Mr. BradshawThe European Commission withdrew its case in the European Court of Justice seeking a daily fine on France after France lifted its ban. Therefore, no fines were payable, but the Commission asked the Court to order that costs of the case be borne by France. The UK Government regretted the decision by the European Commission not to pursue the case for penalties against France. The UK supported the Commission throughout and believed that pressing this case would have sent a firm message to member states that no one country can avoid its obligations and responsibilities.