§ Miss McIntoshTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what action he is taking to ensure the repayment of subsidies which the Commission has deemed irregular which were paid to French and German pig producers; and if he will make a statement. [77130]
§ Mr. RookerIn 1998, both the German and French Governments made announcements about the introduction of state aid schemes aimed at assisting their pig producers. Following representations from the UK and others, however, the German proposal was withdrawn. The EU Commission has expressed concern about some elements of the French proposal and has asked for further information under procedures laid down in Article 93(2) of the Treaty. The French Government have until the end of march to respond. We will, of course, continue to press the Commission to fulfil its obligations under the Treaty which include, if necessary, ordering the repayment of any state aid subsidies plaid illegally.