HC Deb 03 March 1999 vol 326 c775W
Mr. Hayes

To ask the Prime Minister, pursuant to his oral answer of 24 February 1999,Official Report, column 382, concerning the EU Directive on the art markets, if he will list the conditions necessary to permit the United Kingdom to agree the Directive. [74151]

The Prime Minister

[holding answer 2 March 1999]: At the 25 February Internal Market Council the Presidency noted there was a broad consensus in favour of the proposal but, in view of the difficulties of some member states, it noted there were some remaining issues to be settled. It therefore asked the Committee of Permanent Representatives to take forward this work with the aim of reaching early agreement. We shall be working with our EU partners on ways in which the impact of the Directive on the United Kingdom can be reduced. I appreciate their willingness to continue intensive examination of these concerns. I cannot, of course, say in advance of that examination what might be acceptable, though we will ensure we get the best possible deal.