§ Dr. StarkeyTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer (1) if Customs and Excise's inquiries into the true origin of products imported from Israel includes(a) dairy products, (b) other agricultural products and (c) manufactured products; and what other products are included; [20348]
(2) when EC officials will meet Israeli representatives to seek a solution to the problem of false origin declarations. [20350]
§ Dawn PrimaroloCustoms and Excise are currently awaiting replies from Israel in relation to inquiries concerning textile waste and telecommunications equipment. Israel has undertaken to verify the originating status of orange juice exported to the Community since June 1995 and to complete these inquiries by 10 March 1998. Further inquiries relating to a range of manufactured goods have been suspended following undertakings given by Israel at a meeting with EC officials on 28 November to resolve the doubts concerning the validity of preferential certificates.
§ Dr. StarkeyTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer when Customs and Excise experts from the Member States of the European Communities will meet to co-ordinate further measures on verifying Israeli; origin declarations. [20349]
§ Dawn PrimaroloMeetings took place on 28 November and 10 December 1997. A further meeting to agree a common policy is scheduled for 12 January 1998.
§ Dr. StarkeyTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer when Customs and Excise will report the results of their inquiries into the true origin of products imported from Israel. [20347]
§ Dawn PrimaroloIt is normal procedure for Customs to inform importers when inquiries are sent to Israel. As soon as a response is received the importer is advised.