§ Mr. Marlowasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer (1) at what stage under the Fontainebleau agreement it was anticipated that the United Kingdom would obtain its rebate by abatement of contribution;
(2) by what date he anticipates that the United Kingdom rebate will be obtained through abatement of contribution.
§ Mr. Ian Stewart[pursuant to his replies, 21 February 1985 c. 572]: The Fontainebleau agreement makes clear that all future compensation to the United Kingdom will be through abatement of the United Kingdom's VAT contributions, when the agreement is implemented. The 1,000 mecu in respect of the 1984 financial year is due to be paid by the end of 1985. Agreement has not yet been reached by the Council of Ministers on the procedure and timing of implementation and rebated budgetary matters.