HC Deb 02 December 1999 vol 340 c316W
Mr. Jim Marshall

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what was the outcome of the Budget Council held in Brussels on 25–26 November; and if he will make a statement. [100571]

Miss Melanie Johnson

The Budget Council gave its second reading to the Draft EC Budget for 2000 on 25 and 26 November. This was consistent with UK objectives. The Council was firmly against any reopening of the financial perspective agreed at Berlin. The Council fully respects the EU's obligations with respect to needs in Kosovo, and is clear that the EU's share of reconstruction activity in Kosovo can be met without revising the financial perspective ceiling.