HC Deb 12 December 1983 vol 50 c340W
Mr. Marlow

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer to what extent the European Community is able to delay payments; and whether there are any constraints on the length of delay of such payments.

Mr. Hayhoe

Under article 205 of the EEC Treaty the Commission is solely responsible for implementing the European Community budget. The possibility of delayed payments is therefore a matter for the Commission. However, there are a number of regulations specifying periods within which paying agents are required to make payments.