European Community (Budget Contribution)

HC Deb 22 December 1982 vol 34 cc577-8W

Mr. Deakins

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if refunds of the United Kingdom European Economic Community budget contribution rank as obligatory or non-obligatory expenditure.

Mr. Ridley

It was agreed by the Presidents of the Council, the Commission and the European Parliament on 30 June 1982 that refunds to the United Kingdom would be classified as obligatory expenditure.

Mr. Deakins

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether discussions have taken place between Her Majesty's Government and the European Assembly about the supervision of expenditure in the United Kingdom incurred as part of the budget refund.

Mr. Ridley

The question was raised during the discussion between the Council and the European Parliament on the 1982 draft supplementary and amending budget. Following the rejection by the European Parliament of the 1982 draft supplementary and amending budget this was not pursued.