§ Ms. QuinTo ask the Secretary of State for Employment what matters will be discussed at the next EC Social Affairs Council; and if she will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythAt the meeting of the Social Affairs Council on 3 December, among the main items to be considered are the United Kingdom presidency initiatives concerning employment growth; effective implementation and enforcement of Community legislation; vocational qualifications; and the portability of occupational pensions.
A number of other important matters will be on the agenda, including Community instruments on:
- free movement of workers:
- the posting of sub-contracted workers in the Community;
- health and safety in mines and quarries;
- the proposed European Health and Safety Agency; action for the disabled.
This agenda will take forward the aim of the United Kingdom presidency of making sensible progress on the business of the Community and of securing a positive social dimension that brings real benefits to the citizens of the Community.
The Council will also discuss the current state of play on the working time directive.