HC Deb 07 June 1972 vol 838 cc83-4W
Mr. William Hamilton

asked the Minister for the Civil Service how many civil servants have opted, to date, for service in Brussels with the European Economic Community; and what is the estimated total required.

Mr. Kenneth Baker

No civil servant has yet been asked to commit himself to serving with Community institutions. The best estimate at this stage is that some 600–700 British staff will be required for the European Commission, but many of these will come from outside the Civil Service.

Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Minister for the Civil Service what discussions he had with the Civil Service unions on Regulation 2654/71/EEC of 11th December, 1971, amending the staff regulations of officials of the European Communities in respect of daily subsistence allowance; what machinery exists under which these unions can propose alterations or amendments; and whether the House of Commons will be able to alter or amend it.

Mr. Kenneth Baker

It would not be appropriate for me to discuss this Regu- lation with the Civil Service unions. On the last part of the Question, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave him on 25th May, 1972—[Vol. 837, c. 481.]