§ Mr. HoodTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what was the outcome of the ECOFIN Council held in Brussels on 18 January; and if he will make a statement. [66819]
§ Ms HewittThe Chancellor attended the Economic and Finance Council—ECOFIN—of the European Union in Brussels on 20 January 1999.
The German Presidency and the Commission presented their work programmes in public session. All Member States were able to present their views on the programme. The emphasis on tackling unemployment was particularly welcomed. ECOFIN adopted a Report on information requirements in Economic and Monetary Union.
The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Committee presented Opinions on the Irish and Austrian Stability programmes. The Commission and several Member State gave their views on the Opinions. Both opinions, with minor amendments, were adopted by the Council. There was a brief discussion of Agenda 2000.