§ Mr. Austin MitchellTo ask the Prime Minister if he will make it his policy that concessions to Denmark on citizenship in relation to the treaty on European union will be extended to the United Kingdom.
§ The Prime MinisterThe United Kingdom is committed to ratifying the treaty on European union as it stands.
§ Mr. Austin MitchellTo ask the Prime Minister if he will make a statement on the Government's policy in relation to the Danish Government's proposals relating to article 8 of the treaty on European union.
§ The Prime MinisterA Danish proposal was agreed by the Folketing on 30 October. This will now be discussed by EC member states. The presidency's task is to take forward this discussion, and to reach a framework agreement on a solution for Denmark at the Edinburgh European Council.
§ Mr. Austin MitchellTo ask the Prime Minister what tax advantages nationals of other member states resident in the United Kingdom who take advantage of the provisions of article 8b of the treaty on European union will continue to enjoy.
§ The Prime MinisterThe United Kingdom tax position of nationals of other member states will continue to depend on their individual residence and domicile status. This status is not expected to be significantly affected by the provisions of article 8b of the treaty on European union.
§ Mr. Austin MitchellTo ask the Prime Minister what is his policy towards ratification by other member states of the treaty on European union in the absence of ratification by Denmark.
§ The Prime MinisterThe Birmingham European Council reaffirmed the importance of concluding ratification of the Maastricht treaty as soon as possible. All member states, including Denmark, are working towards this. The treaty cannot, however, enter into force until all member states have ratified.