EU Culture Council

HC Deb 02 June 1998 vol 313 cc165-6W

Mr. Caplin

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what was the outcome of the Culture Council on 28 May. [44192]

Mr. Fisher

EU Ministers of Culture met on 28 May 1998 in Brussels. Ministers agreed a common position regarding the proposed European Parliament and Council decision establishing a Community action for "The European City of Culture" event for the years 2005 to 2019. Ministers also agreed the cities to be offered the title "European City of Culture" and "European Cultural Month" for the years 2001 to 2004.

The European Commission presented its proposal for a new culture framework programme. Ministers held an exchange of views on the Commission's proposal.

The Presidency provided the Council with information about an informal meeting between the Cultural Affairs Committee and representatives of the Council- of Europe which took place on 16 April and focused on the impact of new technologies upon culture.

The Commission provided the Council with a progress report on its study on cross border fixed book prices in the European Union.

Ministers also held an exchange of views on culture and employment.

Ministers agreed a draft recommendation concerning the protection of minors and human dignity in audiovisual and information services.

The Presidency gave a report on the European Audiovisual Conference, "Challenges and Opportunities of the Digital Age", which was held in Birmingham on 6–8 April. The Council adopted Council conclusions on the outcome of the Conference.

Ministers discussed a proposal to establish a European Film Award and the Commission agreed to undertake a study. Under any other business, access to archives in the European Union, the importance of music and music sector, and Weimar's plans as City of Culture 1999 were mentioned.