HC Deb 16 July 1992 vol 211 c945W
Mr. Cash

To ask the Secretary of State for National Heritage on what grounds Her Majesty's Government agreed to the proposed article 128 of the treaty of Rome under the Maastricht treaty.

Mr. Mellor

The Community has increasingly become involved in cultural activity. Article 128 of the Maastricht treaty establishes this for the first time on a clear legal basis. The text underlines the importance of respect for national and regional cultural diversity and the fact that Community action will support and supplement action by the member states. At United Kingdom insistence, action can be taken only on the basis of unanimity.