HC Deb 22 May 1989 vol 153 cc351-2W
Mr. Madel

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many proposals from the European Commission since the signing of the Single European Act have been as a result of requests from member states for action; how many proposals came from within the Commission itself; and if he will make a statement.

Mrs. Chalker

Since the Single European Act, the Commission has brought forward 1,255 legislative proposals. There has been no major change in the number of annual proposals made since the SEA. The Commission does not, however, produce statistics distinguishing between those originating in the Commission and those on which proposals have been requested by member states.

Mr. Knox

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement about progress made towards achieving the objectives set out in the solemn declaration on European union made by Heads of Government at the Stuttgart summit.

Mrs. Chalker

The Community has agreed the Single European Act which, in accordance with the solemn declaration of Stuttgart, contains measures to complete the internal market, improve decision-making and make foreign policy co-operation more effective.