§ Lord Molloyasked Her Majesty's Government:
What progress has been made and what action is contemplated to obtain a fairer budget contribution to the EEC for the United Kingdom.
§ Lord TrefgarneThe agreement of 30th May 1980 brought reductions totalling more than £1,500 million in the United Kingdom's net contributions for 1980 and 1981. It also pledged the Community to find a more lasting solution by structural changes. Negotiations on the arrangements for 1982 and beyond are continuing in Brussels. My noble friend reported to the House on progress so far in his statement of 27th January. Foreign Ministers have now agreed to devote 23rd March, the second day of the next Foreign Affairs Council, to this subject. Before the meeting the Presidents of the council and Commission will undertake a series of bilateral contracts with the member states.