§ Mr. MorganTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security (1) what is his most up-to-date estimate of the date of implementation of the European Commission's May 1989 recommendation of the concession card for the over-60s;
(2) when he next expects to discuss the implementation of the European Community over-60s card with his European counterparts; and when he anticipates its implementation;
(3) what policy considerations have led to the postponement of the 1 January 1991 time limit contained 608W in the European Commission recommendation of May 1989 on the setting up of a European Community over-60s card.
§ Mr. JackThe United Kingdom welcomes the proposal for an over-60s card. However, due to operational difficulties we, like other EC member states, are not in a position to reply finally to the Commission. We are particularly concerned at the suggested creation of an EC centralised record of concessions and officials will be seeking further discussions with their European counterparts to seek to resolve this and other problems.
I shall be writing to MEPs about this matter in the near future and I will send the hon. Member a copy of the letter.