HC Deb 13 April 1976 vol 909 cc488-9W
Mr. Brotherton

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is satisfied that EEC directive 71–305 on public works tendering is being operated fairly throughout the Community.

Mr. Joel Harnett

In general member States appear to be operating the existing arrangements fairly, although the Commission has recently brought an action before the European Court of Justice declaring that Italy has failed to comply with her obligations under the directive. There is provision for the machinery of the directive, as well as its operation, to be kept under review and member countries, including the United Kingdom, can make proposals from time to time for modifications.

Mr. Brotherton

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will provide figures relating to the number of contracts advertised by each of the EEC member States as required under EEC directive 71–305.

Mr. Joel Barnett

The number of advertisements placed in the Official Journal of the European Communities up to and including 31st March 1976 is as follows:

Belgium 507
Denmark 107
France 818
Germany 1,500
Italy 8
Luxembourg 17
Netherlands 325
Ireland 68
United Kingdom 2,536

These are cumulative totals since the directive came into effect—1st July 1973 for the United Kingdom, Eire, Denmark; and 1st August 1972 for the remaining member countries.