HC Deb 22 November 2001 vol 375 cc404-5W
Ms Walley

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what action the Government have taken to facilitate the entry of Poland into the European Union; and if he will make a statement. [15718]

Peter Hain

As the Prime Minister said in Warsaw in October last year,there are no guaranteed places. Reform is the only entry ticket. But, we want Poland, and as many others as are ready, in the EU as soon as possible".

This support is backed by practical assistance, through a bilateral Action Plan (consisting of projects to help Poland's reform: available on www.britishembassy.pl), and eight British civil servants currently seconded to the Polish government through the EU twinning scheme. We have also discussed with Polish ministers and officials progress on closing the chapters of the acquis communitaire, necessary for accession.

Ms Walley

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the parliamentary election in Poland on 23 September. [15719]

Peter Hain

The Polish elections resulted in a governing coalition comprising the Democratic Left (SLD), Labour Union and Peasants' Party. We look forward to working closely with the new government. My right hon. Friends the Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary have already met their new opposite numbers from Poland, and I will be meeting the new Europe Minister in the next few days.

Forward to