HC Deb 18 February 1987 vol 110 c672W
69. Mr. John Mark Taylor

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer which member nations are now net contributors to the European Economic Community budget.

Mr. Brooke

The United Kingdom, even after abatement, and Germany are both substantial net contributors to the EC budget. After taking account of their contributions to United Kingdom refunds and abatement, the French have also been net contributors, but on a modest scale.

70. Mr. Deakins

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer when the European Economic Community Council of Foreign Ministers will next discuss how to bring total European Economic Community expenditure into line with the financial resourses available within the 1.4 per cent. value added tax limit.

Mr. Brooke

The agenda for the next Foreign Affairs council has not yet been fixed. It would normally be for the Budget or Agriculture Councils to discuss first the proposals which the Commission should bring forward for ensuring that expenditure remains within the available resources.