§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the mandate of the Standing Committee on zootechnics is; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the United Kingdom representation on it is; what the annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently under its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement. [57482]
§ Mr. MorleyThe mandate of the Standing Committee on Zootechnics is to carry out the duties delegated to it by provisions adopted by the Council in the zootechnical field. It may also consider any question arising in this field and referred to it by the Chairman either on his own initiative or at the request of a member state. It has met once over the last 12 months. The UK representation are the officials in DEFRA responsible for policy matters on Zootechnics. Annual cost to public funds in the last twelve months has been approximately £250.
Together with member states, the Commission is currently conducting a review to bring existing legislation on the conduct of comitology committees into line with Council Decision 1999/468/EC, to "simplify the requirements for the exercise of implementing powers conferred on the Commission".
As an obligation to this Decision, the Commission undertook to publish an annual report on the working of committees. The first report was deposited in the Libraries of both Houses on 26 February 2002 (Com (2001) 783 Final. As part of the review process, the UK Government has encouraged the Commission to produce and maintain an electronic database of every comitology committee, its agendas and recent actions, to be accessible through its website.
§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the mandate of the Standing Committee on seeds and propagating material for agriculture, horticulture and forestry is; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the 899W United Kingdom representation on it is; what the annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently under its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement. [57487]
§ Mr. MorleyThe mandate of the Standing Committee on Seeds and Propagating Material for Agriculture, Horticulture and Forestry is to carry out the duties devolved to it by the Council Directives on the marketing of seeds and propagating material. The Committee has met 11 times during the past 12 months. UK representation at the Committee has varied but averages two officials per meeting and the cost of representation has been around £22,300.
The major item under discussion is the EU Commission's legislative proposals to introduce thresholds for the adventitious presence of genetically modified seeds in non-genetically modified seeds. The Committee is also considering measures that would implement exemptions and derogations contained within the Council Directives on the marketing of seeds.
Together with member states, the Commission is currently conducting a review to bring existing legislation on the conduct of comitology committees into line with Council Decision 1999/468/EC, to simplify the requirements for the exercise of implementing powers conferred on the Commission.
As an obligation to this Decision, the Commission undertook to publish an annual report on the working of committees. The first report was deposited in the Libraries of both Houses on 26 February 2002 (Corn (2001) 783 Final).
As part of the review process, the UK Government has encouraged the Commission to produce and maintain an electronic database of every comitology committee, its agendas and recent actions, to be accessible through its website.
§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the mandate of the Standing Veterinary Committee is; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the United Kingdom representation on it is; what the annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently under its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement. [57483]
§ Mr. MorleyThe Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health, formerly known as the Standing Veterinary Committee, is a regulatory committee established under Council Decision (1999/468/EC) of 28 June 1999.
Between May 2001 and April 2002 the Committee met twenty-seven times. The United Kingdom is usually represented by two delegates (a veterinarian and an administrator both from DEFRA). Other officials from DEFRA, FSA or the devolved administrations may also attend when necessary. The Commission pays the travel costs of one delegate: remaining costs are met from Department funds. The approximate cost to DEFRA between May 2001 and April 2002 was £16,500.
900WThe Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health deals with a wide range of animal health and public health issues and the agenda for a typical two day meeting may cover as many as 50 items. Some items will be for discussion alone, others will be for a vote leading to the introduction of new Community legislation in accordance with powers provided for in existing Directives. For example, recent agenda items have covered such diverse subjects as: monitoring and categorisation of the status of BSE; European identification marking on fishery products originating from third countries; import of products of animal origin from China; falsification of health certificates from certain third countries; veterinary checks at Border Inspection Posts; review of the list of third countries from which the import of fishery products is authorised for human consumption; establishing a list of third countries fulfilling equivalence conditions for the production and placing on the market of bivulve molluscs, echinoderms, tunicates and marine gastropods.
Together with member states, the Commission is currently conducting a review to bring existing legislation on the conduct of comitology committees into line with Council Decision 1999/468/EC, to "simplify the requirements for the exercise of implementing powers conferred on the Commission."
In the light of this decision on the working of committees, the first report was deposited in the Libraries of both Houses on 26 February 2002 (Com 2001) 783 Final.
As part of the review process, the UK Government has encouraged the Commission to produce and maintain an electronic database of every comitology committee, its agendas and recent actions, to be accessible through its website.
§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the mandate of the Management Committee of the common organisation of agricultural markets for cereals is; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the UK representation on it is; what the annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently under its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement. [55246]
§ Mr. MorleyThe mandate of the Management Committee of the common organisation of agricultural markets for cereals is laid down in Article 23 of Council Regulation 1766–92. It normally meets on a weekly basis. Meetings are attended by officials from DEFRA and additionally as necessary by officials from the other UK Agriculture Departments or the Rural Payments Agency. The direct annual cost to UK public funds consists of the travel and subsistence allowances of the UK officials attending, which were approximately £45,000 over the last 12 month period. The items currently under consideration are the regular adjudications for the export of cereals to third countries and the implementing rules for the export of cereals to applicant countries with whom the EU has negotiated reciprocal trade arrangements.
Together with member states, the Commission is currently conducting a review to bring existing legislation on the conduct of comitology committees into line 901W with Council Decision 1999/468/EC, to "simplify the requirements for the exercise of implementing powers conferred on the Commission". As an obligation to this Decision, the Commission undertook to publish an annual report on the working of committees. The first report was deposited in the Libraries of both Houses on 26 February 2002 (Com (2001) 783 Final). As part of the review process, the UK Government have encouraged the Commission to produce and maintain an electronic database of every comitology committee, its agenda and recent actions, to be accessible through its website.
§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the mandate of the Management Committee of the common organisation of agricultural markets for poultrymeat and eggs is; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the UK representation on it is; what the annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently under its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement. [55255]
§ Mr. MorleyThe Management Committee for Poultrymeat and Eggs implements measures relating to the common organisation of the markets in eggs, poultry and albumins. The Committee also implements measures to improve the production and marketing of honey.
The Committee has met on 11 occasions over the past 12 months. The UK representation usually consists of the Head of Eggs and Poultry Branch and, if required, a supporting officer. A representative from Horticulture and Potatoes Division may also attend when honey issues are on the agenda. The annual cost amounts to approximately £6,745 and attendance takes approximately 50 staff days per annum.
In addition to routine market reports and trade mechanism items, the Committee is currently considering amendments to the Marketing Standards for Poultrymeat and a draft decision on measures to be funded under the national honey programmes for 2003.
Together with member states, the Commission is currently conducting a review to bring existing legislation on the conduct of comitology committees into line with Council Decision 1999/468/EC, to "simplify the requirements for the exercise of implementing powers conferred on the Commission". As an obligation to this Decision, the Commission undertook to publish an annual report on the working of committees. The first report was deposited in the Libraries of both Houses on 26 February 2002 (Com (2001) 783 Final). As part of the review process, the UK Government have encouraged the Commission to produce and maintain an electronic database of every comitology committee, its agenda and recent actions, to be accessible through its website.
§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the mandate of the Management Committee of the common organisation of agricultural markets for milk and milk products is; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the UK representation on it is; what the annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently under its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement. [55251]
902W
§ Mr. MorleyThe mandate of the Management Committee for Milk and Milk Products is to facilitate the implementation of measures relating to the common organisation of the market for these products.
The Committee has met 22 times over the last 12 months. The UK representation usually consists of the Head of Milk Branch or his deputy, and, if required, a supporting officer. Others attend as necessary. The annual cost amounts to some £16,000 in travel and subsistence expenses, and the meetings, including preparation time and activities following the meetings, take approximately 100 staff days per annum.
In addition to routine market reports and trade mechanism items, the Committee is currently considering the modification of the nomenclature for export refunds, amendments to the legislation on export licences and export refunds, and reports by member states on their methods for control of the composition of milk powders. Together with member states, the Commission is currently conducting a review to bring existing legislation on the conduct of comitology committees into line with Council Decision 1999/468/EC, to "simplify the requirements for the exercise of implementing powers conferred on the Commission". As an obligation to this Decision, the Commission undertook to publish an annual report on the working of committees. The first report was deposited in the Libraries of both Houses on 26 February 2002 (Corn (2001) 783 Final). As part of the review process, the UK Government have encouraged the Commission to produce and maintain an electronic database of every comitology committee, its agendas and recent actions, to be accessible through its website.
§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the mandate of the Management Committee of the common organisation of agricultural markets for beef and veal is; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the UK representation on it is; what the annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently under its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement. [55252]
§ Mr. MorleyUnder Article 42 of Council Regulation 1254/1999 on the common organisation of the market in beef and veal, the Commission is mandated to establish a Management Committee to deal with market management of the sector and any matters arising for which the Commission has competence.
Within the previous 12 months the Management Committee has met on 24 occasions. The UK delegation for the Committee normally comprises two officials from DEFRA; on occasion officials from the Rural Payments Agency and the devolved administrations also attend.
The normal work of the Beef Management Committee involves consideration of the market situation (including production, consumption, imports and exports) and adjudication of intervention tenders.
Currently, the Beef Management Committee is also considering proposals for amendments to a number of Regulations relating to tariff quotas for imports of beef and live cattle from third countries.
903WThe travel and subsistence costs over the previous 12 months relating to meetings of the beef management committee totalled some £25,000. Until February 2002 the Commission reimbursed the travel costs of two delegates per meeting; since February travel costs for only one delegate have been reimbursed.
Together with member states, the Commission is currently conducting a review to bring existing legislation on the conduct of comitology committees into line with Council Decision 1999/468/EC, to "simplify the requirements for the exercise of implementing powers conferred on the Commission".
As an obligation to this Decision, the Commission undertook to publish an annual report on the working of committees. The first report was deposited in the Libraries of both Houses on 26 February (Commission Document 5685/02).
As part of the review process, the UK Government have encouraged the Commission to produce and maintain an electronic database of every comitology committee, its agendas and recent actions, to be accessible through its website.
§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the mandate of the Community Committee on the farm accountancy data network is; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the UK representation on it is; what the annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently under its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement. [55242]
§ Mr. MorleyThe Community Committee for the Farm Accountancy Data Network was set up to support the information needs of the Common Agricultural Policy, specifically for determining farm incomes, for analysing the state of farm businesses and to contribute to the annual report on the situation of agriculture in the Community.
The United Kingdom is allowed up to five representatives on the Committee but in practice is represented by one or two officials from my Department and from the devolved administrations. The Committee has met four times during the last 12 months. The direct cost incurred by the Department in the last 12 months, including staff time, was £3,600.
The following topics have been considered during the last twelve months:
- 1. Legislation to relax the lower size threshold for the UK and three other member states
- 2. Steps to be taken by candidate countries in setting up their own accountancy networks
- 3. Analysis of alternative dairy support mechanisms to contribute to the 2003 mid-term review
- 4. Study on phasing out milk quotas in Germany
- 5. Use of farm accountancy data for policy evaluations
- 6. New computer system for online transmission of farm accounts over the internet
- 7. Review of reimbursements to member states
- 8. Agreement to defer UK deadline for data delivery following the outbreak of foot and mouth disease
- 9. Agreement to launch a public version of the database on the Commission's website
- 10. Studies on milk and beef enterprise costs
904W - 11 Need to revise definition of farm types in the light of the shift from first to second pillar support
- 12. How to provide detailed low-level data to member states without disclosing details of individual farms
- 13. Contribution of accountancy data to agri-environment indicators.
The last three have not yet been concluded.
Together with member states, the Commission is currently conducting a review to bring existing legislation on the conduct of comitology committees into line with Council Decision 1999/468/EC, to "simplify the requirements for the exercise of implementing powers conferred on the Commission".
As an obligation to this Decision, the Commission undertook to publish an annual report on the working of committees. The first report was deposited in the Libraries of both Houses on 26 February 2002 (Com(2001)783 Final).
As part of the review process, the UK Government have encouraged the Commission to produce and maintain an electronic database of every comitology committee, its agenda and recent actions, to be accessible through its website.
§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the mandate of the Management Committee of the common organisation of agricultural markets for sugar is; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the UK representation on it is; what the annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently under its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement. [55248]
§ Mr. MorleyThe mandate of the Management Committee of the common organisation of agricultural markets for sugar is laid down in Article 42 of Council Regulation 1260/2001. It normally meets on a weekly basis. Meetings are attended by officials from DEFRA and additionally as necessary by officials from the other UK Agriculture Departments or the Rural Payments Agency. The direct annual cost to UK public funds consists of the travel and subsistence allowances of the UK officials attending, which were approximately £23,000 over the last 12-month period. The items currently under consideration are the regular adjudications on sugar export refunds, sugar balance sheets for both current and future years, cane refining aid and imports from the western Balkans.
Together with member states, the Commission is currently conducting a review to bring existing legislation on the conduct of comitology committees into line with Council Decision 1999/468/EC, to "simplify the requirements for the exercise of implementing powers conferred on the Commission". As an obligation to this Decision, the Commission undertook to publish an annual report on the working of committees. The first report was deposited in the Libraries of both Houses on 26 February 2002 (Com(2001)783 Final). As part of the review process, the UK Government have encouraged the Commission to produce and maintain an electronic database of every comitology committee, its agenda and recent actions, to be accessible through its website.
905W
§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the mandate of the Management Committee of the common organisation of agricultural markets for sheep and goats is; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the UK representation on it is; what the annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently under its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement. [55253]
§ Mr. MorleyUnder Article 25 of Council Regulation 2529–2001 on the common organisation of the market in sheepmeat and goatmeat the Commission is mandated to establish a management committee to deal with market management of the sector and any matters arising for which the Commission has competence.
Within the previous 12 months the management committee has met on seven occasions. The UK delegation for the committee normally comprises two officials from DEFRA; on occasion officials from the Rural Payments Agency and the devolved Administrations also attend.
Since the significant reforms of the common organisation of markets for sheepmeat and goatmeat agreed in December 2001, the need for management committees has been much reduced. The sheepmeat management committee is due to meet in two months' time to review the market situation and the impact of the recent reforms.
The travel and subsistence costs over the previous 12 months relating to meeting of the sheepmeat management committee totalled some £7,000. Until February 2002 the Commission reimbursed the travel cost of two delegates per meeting; since February travel costs for only one delegate have been reimbursed.
Together with member states, the Commission is currently conducting a review to bring existing legislation on the conduct of comitology committees into line with Council Decision 1999/468/EC, to "simplify the requirements for the exercise of implementing powers conferred on the Commission".
As an obligation to this Decision, the Commission undertook to publish an annual report on the working of committees. The first report was deposited in the Libraries of both Houses on 26 February (Commission Document 5685–02).
As part of the review process, the UK Government have encouraged the Commission to produce and maintain an electronic database of every comitology committee, its agendas and recent actions, to be accessible through its website.
§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the mandate of the Management Committee of the common organisation of agricultural markets for pigmeat is; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the UK representation on it is; what the annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently under its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement. [55254]
906W
§ Mr. MorleyThe mandate for the Management Committee of the common organisation of agricultural markets for pigmeat was given under Regulation (EEC)
2759–75 of the Council, of 29 October 1975, on the common organisation of the market in pigmeat.
The committee has met on 11 occasions over the past 12 months. The UK representation usually consists of the Head of Pigs Branch and, if required, a supporting officer. The annual cost amounts to approximately £308 and attendance and preparation time takes approximately 30 staff days per annum.
In addition to routine market reports and trade mechanism items, the committee is currently considering outbreaks of classical swine fever (CSF) in Western Europe and carcass grading for the European Community.
Together with member states, the Commission is currently conducting a review to bring existing legislation on the conduct of comitology committees into line with Council Decision 1999/468/EC, to "simplify the requirements for the exercise of implementing powers conferred on the Commission". As an obligation to this Decision, the Commission undertook to publish an annual report on the working of committees. The first report was deposited in the Libraries of both Houses on 26 February 2002 (Com (2001) 783 Final. As part of the review process, the UK Government have encouraged the Commission to produce and maintain an electronic database of every comitology committee, its agenda and recent actions, to be accessible through its website.
§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the mandate of the Joint Meetings of Management and/or Regulatory Committees in the promotion of agricultural products is; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the UK representation on it is; what the annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently under its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement. [55664]
§ Mr. MorleyThe mandate of this joint management committee is to run generic promotional schemes for European agricultural products to third countries and on the internal market, as an instrument to help member states face the challenges presented by the new world trading environment created by the WTO/GATT agreements.
It has met 10 times over the past 12 months and is represented by two departmental officials. The annual cost of this committee's work to public funds is £10,000.
Items currently under consideration by this committee are applications received under the current round from member states trade organisations for funds to promote specified products to third countries and on the internal market.
§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the mandate of the Management Committee of the common organisations of agricultural markets for wines is; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the UK representation on it is; what the annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently 907W under its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement. [55672]
§ Mr. MorleyThe Wine Management Committee is mandated by Council Regulation 1493–1999 to maintain and improve the balance between the supply and demand for wine on the Community market and to enable the sector to become more competitive in the longer term. It considers draft Commission legislation and gives its formal opinion on Commission proposals.
For the period 1 May 2001 to 30 April 2002, it met thirty times, a reflection of the workload flowing from the introduction of the revised wine regime from 1 August 2000. For all but two of these meetings the UK was represented by two officials from the department (from 1 April this year only one person has been representing the UK at this Committee unless the agenda warrants additional attendance).
The estimated cost to public funds for this period is £29,000.
Besides its on-going management of the wine sector, the Committee is currently looking at amendments to regulations on market mechanisms and production potential, in light of market experience.
Together with member states, the Commission is currently conducting a review to bring existing legislation on the conduct of comitology committees into line with Council Decision 1999/468/EC, to "simplify the requirements for the exercise of implementing powers conferred on the Commission".
As an obligation to this Decision, the Commission undertook to publish an annual report on the working of committees. The first report was deposited in the Libraries of both Houses on 26 February 2002 (Com (2001) 783 Final).
As part of the review process, the UK Government has encouraged the Commission to produce and maintain an electronic database of every comitology committee, its agendas and recent actions, to be accessible through its website.
§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the mandate of the Implementation Committee on aromatised wine-based drinks is; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the UK representation on it is; what the annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently under its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement. [55665]
§ Mr. MorleyThe Aromatised Wine Implementation Committee is mandated by Council Regulation 1601–91 which lays down general rules for the definition, description and presentation of aromatised (flavoured) wines, aromatised wine-based drinks and aromatised wine-product cocktails.
The Committee meets very infrequently, with one person attending from the Department, and has not met at all in the last four years. Costs for any future meetings are unlikely to exceed £500 per annum.
There are currently no items under the Committee's consideration.
908WTogether with member states, the Commission is currently conducting a review to bring existing legislation on the conduct of comitology committees into line with Council Decision 1999/468/EC, to "simplify the requirements for the exercise of implementing powers conferred on the Commission".
As an obligation to this Decision, the Commission undertook to publish an annual report on the working of committees. The first report was deposited in the Libraries of both Houses on 26 February 2002 (Com (2001) 783 Final)).
As part of the review process, the UK Government has encouraged the Commission to produce and maintain an electronic database of every comitology committee, its agendas and recent actions, to be accessible through its website.
§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the mandate of the Implementation Committee for spirit drinks is; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the UK representation on it is; what the annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently under its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement. [55666]
§ Mr. MorleyThe Spirit Drinks Implementation Committee (SDIC) is mandated by Council Regulation 1576–89 and is responsible for the implementation of the general rules on the definition, description and presentation of spirit drinks as laid down in that Regulation. It considers draft Commission legislation and gives its formal opinion on Commission proposals.
The SDIC met twice during the last 12 months. UK representation consisted of two officials. The estimated annual costs to UK public funds for this period is £2,000.
Current issues being addressed by the SDIC concern EU enlargement, bilateral spirits agreements between the EU and third countries and consideration of the need for amendments to Regulation 1576–89.
Together with member states, the Commission is currently conducting a review to bring existing legislation on the conduct of comitology committees into line with Council Decision 1999/468/EC, to "simplify the requirements for the exercise of implementing powers conferred on the Commission".
As an obligation to this Decision, the Commission undertook to publish an annual report on the working of committees. The first report was deposited in the Libraries of both Houses on 26 February 2002 (Com (2001)) 783 Final.
As part of the review process, the UK Government has encouraged the Commission to produce and maintain an electronic database of every comitology committee, its agendas and recent actions, to be accessible through its website.
§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment. Food and Rural Affairs what the mandate of the Committee for the adaptation to scientific and technical progress and implementation of the Directive on waste is; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the UK representation on it is; what the 909W annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently under its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement. [56837]
§ Mr. MeacherThe Committee's mandate is determined by Articles 17 and 18 of the Waste Framework Directive, Article 9 of the Hazardous Waste Directive and Article 11 of the End-Of-Life Vehicles Directive. In summary, its mandate is to assist the European Commission to adapt aspects of those directives in the light of scientific and technical progress.
The Committee met on 6 July 2001, 30 January 2002 and 22 May 2002. The UK's representation is determined by the agenda for each meeting but the basic representation is usually two officials. The cost to public funds comprise travel and subsistence costs incurred in attending a one day meeting in Brussels (approximately £650 per meeting) and staff costs (around £700 per meeting). The Commission reimburses the travelling costs for one official's attendance at each meeting.
The agenda for the meeting on 22 May included several matters relating to the End-Of-Life Vehicles Directive and presentations and reports on a range of other waste issues.
§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the mandate of the Committee for the adaptation of technical and scientific progress and implementation of the directive on the deliberate release into the environment of genetically-modified organisms; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the UK representation on it is; what the annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently under its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement. [56821]
§ Mr. MeacherThe mandate of the Committee is to assist the Commission in functions to be undertaken in respect of Directive 90/220/EEC on the deliberate release of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) to the environment. Specifically, these functions are: the establishment of the format of summaries of information to be exchanged under the directive; the establishment of a list of Community legislation covering products to which the directive does not apply; the taking of decisions in respect of the placing on the market of GMOs; the provisional restriction or prohibition on the use or sale of certain products; and the adaption to technical progress of information required under the directive. UK representation on the Committee is by an official from my Department.
The Committee has not met over the last 12 months and has resulted in no costs to public funds during that period. The Committee has been superseded by a Committee constituted under Directive 2001/18/EC, which replaces Directive 90/220/EEC and will meet for the first time on 12 June 2002. The main item on the initial programme of work of the new Committee will be the agreement of guidance notes on risk assessment and monitoring under the directive.
§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the mandate of the group of experts appointed by the Euratom Scientific and Technical Committee to address radioactive910W effluents (Article 37) is; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the UK representation on it is; what the annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently under its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement. [56827]
§ Mr. MeacherThe Group of Experts appointed under Article 31 of the Euratom treaty advises the European Commission, among other things, in preparing its opinion on each plan submitted by member states under Article 37 for the disposal of radioactive waste.
The group have not met during the past 12 months. The majority of their work is carried out by correspondence. Members of the group are independent scientists and are not representatives of their respective Governments. Four of the 43 members of the group are from the UK. Their expenses are met by the European Commission and therefore the work of the group makes no demands on public funds in the UK.
Within the past 12 months the Commission have received 14 submissions from EU member countries of general data under Article 37 on which it has requested the views of the group. Six of these submissions were from the UK. Copies of the Commission's opinions on UK Article 37 submissions are placed in the Library of the House. The Group of Experts' reports are attached as an annex to these opinions.
§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the mandate of the Standing Committee on Agricultural Statistics is; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the UK representation on it is; what the annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently under its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement. [58438]
§ Mr. MorleyThe Standing Committee on Agricultural Statistics was set up by a Council Decision (72/279/EEC) on 31 July 1972. It makes detailed decisions on implementing EU legislation as set out in each case using the delegated authority provided by the EU "Comitology" process.
Together with member states, the Commission is currently conducting a review to bring existing legislation on the conduct of comitology committees into line with Council Decision 1999/468/EC, to "simplify the requirements for the exercise of implementing powers conferred on the Commission". As an obligation to this Decision, the Commission undertook to publish an annual report on the working of committees. The first report was deposited in the Libraries of both Houses on 26 February 2002 (Com(2001) 783 Final.
The Standing Committee on Agricultural Statistics includes representatives from all member states and is chaired by the Commission. Separate meetings are set up for each subject normally linked to the appropriate working group or meeting of officials. The appropriate statisticians from the UK Departments attend.
There have been two Standing Committee meetings this year. The forthcoming items for decision will include the definition and deadlines for statistics in the forthcoming 911W 2005 EU Structure Survey; the development initiatives on the "Improving Community Agricultural Statistics Programme"; the 2003 survey of ground points across the EU and the rules of procedure of the Standing Committee.
The work on Agricultural Statistics is subject to the Direction of the European Parliament, Council, the Statistical Programme Committee meeting of heads of each National Statistical Services and the Agricultural Statistics Committee Meeting.
It is not possible to separately identify the specific annual cost of the Committee's work to public funds without incurring disproportionate costs.
New or significant changes to EU legislation are already subject to Parliamentary Scrutiny. We provide information on agricultural statistics work in National Statistics reports and plans, which are published on the internet.
§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the mandate of the Management Committee of the common organisation of agricultural markets for fresh fruit and vegetables is; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the UK representation on it is; what the annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently under its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement. [55256]
§ Mr. MorleyThe mandate of the Management Committee for fresh fruit and vegetables is to assist the Commission in the management of the common organisation of the market in fresh fruit and vegetables, as established by Article 46 of Council Regulation (EC) 2200/96. The Committee has met 15 times over the last 12 months, generally on the same day as the processed fruit and vegetables Management Committee. The meetings are normally attended by two officials at a total cost for the year of about £6,000 for each committee. A wide range of routine items are discussed, such as the setting of export refunds, as well as rules implementing the regulation, including arrangements for assisting producer organisations.
Together with member states, the Commission is currently conducting a review to bring existing legislation on the conduct of comitology committees into line with Council Decision 1999/468/EC, to "simplify the requirements for the exercise of implementing powers conferred on the Commission". As an obligation to this Decision, the Commission undertook to publish an annual report on the working of committees. The first report was deposited in the Libraries of both Houses on 26 February 2002 (Com (2001) 783 Final). As part of the review process, the UK Government have encouraged the Commission to produce and maintain an electronic database of every comitology committee, its agenda and recent actions, to be accessible through its website.
§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the mandate of the Management Committee of the common organisation of agricultural markets for products processed from fruit and vegetables is; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the UK representation on it is; what the annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently under912W its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement. [55257]
§ Mr. MorleyThe mandate of the Management Committee for products processed from fruit and vegetables is to assist the Commission in the management of the common organisation of the market in products processed from fruit and vegetables, as established by Article 29 of Council Regulation (EC) 2201/96. The Committee has met 13 times over the last 12 months, generally on the same day as the fresh fruit and vegetables Management Committee. The meetings are normally attended by two officials at a total cost for the year of about £6,000 for each Committee. Items discussed include reductions in aid for products grown for processing and rules implementing the regulation.
Together with member states, the Commission is currently conducting a review to bring existing legislation on the conduct of comitology committees into line with Council Decision 1999/468/EC, to "simplify the requirements for the exercise of implementing powers conferred on the Commission". As an obligation to this Decision, the Commission undertook to publish an annual report on the working of committees. The first report was deposited in the Libraries of both Houses on 26 February 2002 (Com (2001) 783 Final). As part of the review process, the UK Government have encouraged the Commission to produce and maintain an electronic database of every comitology committee, its agenda and recent actions, to be accessible through its website.
§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the mandate of the Management Committee of the common organisations of agriculture markets for raw tobacco is; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the UK representation on it is; what the annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently under its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement. [55671]
§ Mr. MorleyThe mandate of the Management Committee for raw tobacco is to assist the Commission in the management of the common organisation of the market for raw tobacco as established by Article 22 of Council Regulation (EEC) No 2075/92. The Committee has met four times over the last 12 months and one official attends; the cost of this attendance to public funds over the last year was £2000. The Committee considers matters relating to the management of the market for raw tobacco.
Together with member states, the Commission is currently conducting a review to bring existing legislation on the conduct of comitology committees into line with Council Decision 1999/468/EC, to "simplify the requirements for the exercise of implementing powers conferred on the Commission". As an obligation to this Decision, the Commission undertook to publish an annual report on the working of committees. The first report was deposited in the Libraries of both Houses on 26 February (Com (2001) 783 Final). As part of the review process, the UK Government have encouraged the Commission to produce and maintain an electronic database of every comitology committee, its agenda and recent actions, to be accessible through its website.
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§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the mandate of the Management Committee of the common organisations of agricultural markets for live plants and floriculture products is; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the UK representation on it is; what the annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently under its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement. [55668]
§ Mr. MorleyThe mandate of the Management Committee for live plants and floriculture products is to assist the Commission in the management of the common organisation of the market in live trees and other plants, bulbs, roots and the like, cut flowers and ornamental foliage, as established by Article 1 of Council Regulation (EEC) No. 234/68. The Committee has met once over the last 12 months, attended by two officials at a cost of about £1.000. Items discussed included market statistics and EU enlargement.
Together with member states, the Commission is currently conducting a review to bring existing legislation on the conduct of comitology committees into line with Council Decision 1999/468/EC, to "simplify the requirements for the exercise of implementing powers conferred on the Commission". As an obligation to this Decision, the Commission undertook to publish an annual report on the working of committees. The first report was deposited in the Libraries of both Houses on 26 February 2002 (Com (2001) 783 Final). As part of the review process, the UK Government have encouraged the Commission to produce and maintain an electronic database of every comitology committee, its agenda and recent actions, to be accessible through its website.
§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the mandate of the Management Committee of the common organisations of agricultural markets for bananas is; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the UK representation on it is; what the annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently under its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement. [55667]
§ Mr. MorleyThe mandate of the Management Committee for bananas is to assist the Commission in the management of the common organisation of the market for bananas, as established by Article 27 of Council Regulation 404/93 as amended.
The Committee has met seven times over the last 12 months at a total cost of £4,200. Meetings are normally attended by one official. The items discussed include arrangements for licensing imports and other market management issues.
Together with member states, the Commission is currently conducting a review to bring existing legislation on the conduct of comitology committees into line with Council Decision 1999/468/EC, to "simplify the requirements for the exercise of implementing powers conferred on the Commission". As an obligation to this Decision, the Commission undertook to publish an annual report on the working of committees. The first report was 914W deposited in the Libraries of both Houses on 26 February 2002 (Corn (2001) 783 Final). As part of the review process, the UK Government have encouraged the Commission to produce and maintain an electronic database of every comitology committee, its agenda and recent actions, to be accessible through its website.
§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (1) what the mandate of the Management Committee for the Fisheries and Aquaculture sector is; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the UK representation on it is; what the annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently under its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement; [56744]
(2) what the mandate of the Management Committee for Fisheries products is; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the UK representation on it is; what the annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently under its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement. [56742]
§ Mr. MorleyThe Management Committees for Fisheries and Aquaculture and Fisheries Products have been established under the Common Fisheries Policy for the management of fishing activity and the common organisation of the market for fish and fish products respectively. Both committees meet on average once a month. The UK is normally represented by officials from DEFRA and the Scottish Executive. In keeping with standard practice for this type of meeting, the travel costs of those attending are reimbursed by the EU.
At the last meeting of the Management Committee for Fisheries and Aquaculture, on 30 April, the two agenda items were the extension of the fourth Multi-Annual Guidance Programme (MAGP IV) and the provision of information to the Commission under its new data collection arrangements.
At the last meeting of the Management Committee for Fisheries Products on 16 May, the three main agenda items were the provision of import price data by member states, the application of common market rules and the review of the operational programmes of producer organisations.
Together with member states, the Commission is currently conducting a review to bring existing legislation on the conduct of comitology committees like these into line with Council Decision 1999/468/EC, to "simplify the requirements for the exercise of implementing powers conferred on the Commission". As an obligation to this Decision, the Commission undertook to publish an annual report on the working of the committees. The first report was deposited in the Libraries of both Houses on 26 February 2002 (Com (2001) 783 Final). As part of the review process, the UK Government have encouraged the Commission to produce and maintain an electronic database of every comitology committee, its agendas and recent actions, to be accessible through its website.
§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the mandate of the Committee on evaluation and control of the risks 915W of existing products is; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the UK representation on it is; what the annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently under its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement. [56823]
§ Mr. MeacherThe Committee of the regulation concerning the evaluation and control of the risks of existing substances has met twice over the last 12 months. UK attendance is usually one representative from the Health and Safety Executive or my Department depending on the nature of the issue. The cost to public funds is approximately £1,000 per year for travel and subsistence, which is largely met by the European Commission. The Committee is not currently considering any issues.
The work of the Committee has been to agree the publication in the Official Journal of the results of risk assessments and risk reduction strategies carried out under Council Regulation 793/93/EEC and to agree the scope of additional testing requirements. Any such recommendations are the subject of new proposals from the European Commission for European Parliament and Council Directives as appropriate.
§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the mandate of the Committee for the adaptation to scientific and technical progress of the directive on water intended for human consumption is; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the UK representation on it is; what the annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently under its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement. [56795]
§ Mr. MeacherThe Drinking Water Directive 1998, requires the Commission to review drinking water quality standards in Annex I to the directive "in the light of scientific and technical progress" and to make proposals for any necessary amendments. At least every five years, the Commission is to adapt Annexes II and III (monitoring and methods of analysis) to scientific and technical progress. A management committee was established under Article 12, to assist the Commission.
The Article 12 Committee has met three times: in June 1999, when the Committee adopted its rules of procedure, in November 2001 and in April 2002. It is too soon to carry out full reviews of the Annexes. However, the directive also stipulated that certain provisions, particularly on sampling methods for the lead, nickel and copper parameters, and some radioactivity provisions, remained to be added.
The additional work, carried out by the Committee, has included:
- producing a guidance document on standardised methods of sampling and analysis for lead
- advice on sampling for the copper and nickel parameters
- advice on monitoring for radioactivity
- advice on pesticides breakdown products [relevant metabolites].
The Committee's Rules of Procedure permit a delegation of three officials from each member state. At the meetings in November 2001 and April 2002, the UK's membership 916W comprised a technical assessor from the Drinking Water Inspectorate, a DEFRA policy administrator, and a representative of the Scottish Executive.
The costs incurred by my Department in contributing to the Committee's work are largely travel and subsistence costs of approximately £1,000 per meeting. Officials consider a wide range of matters in connection with the directive. Therefore it is not possible, except at a disproportionate cost, to identify or apportion the costs arising out of the particular technical issues on which the Article 12 Committee assists and advises the Commission.
§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the mandate of the Committee for the adaptation to technical progress of the provisions on the removal of technical barriers to trade in the sector of dangerous substances and preparations is; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the UK representation on it is; what the annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently under its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement. [56824]
§ Mr. MeacherThe Committee for the Adaptation to Technical Progress of Directive 76/769/EEC on the restrictions on the Marketing and Use of Dangerous Substances and Preparations has met twice in the last 12 months. UK attendance is usually one representative from either Health and Safety Executive, Department of Trade and Industry or my Department depending on the nature of the issue. The cost to public funds is approximately £1,000 per year for travel and subsistence, which is largely met by the European Commission.
The Committee is currently considering proposals to adapt to technical progress Council Directive 89/677/EEC, which amended for the eighth time Directive 76/769/EEC placing restrictions on arsenic and Commission Directive 1999–51 adapting to technical progress Directive 76/769/EEC placing restrictions on cadmium.
The work of the Committee is to bring forward amendments, in the light of the latest scientific information, to existing legislation where the main policy has already been agreed by Council and Parliament for protection of health and the environment.
§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the mandate of the Management Committee of the common organisations of agriculture markets for hops is; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the UK representation on it is; what the annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently under its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement. [55670]
§ Mr. MorleyThe mandate of the Management Committee for hops is to assist the Commission in the management of the common organisation of the market in hops, as established by Article 1 of Council Regulation (EEC) No. 1696–71. It has met twice over the last 12 months in the margins of other Management Committees, incurring no additional costs to public funds. Items 917W discussed included fixing aid for the supply of hops to the Azores and Madeira, French Overseas Departments and the Canary Islands.
Together with member states, the Commission is currently conducting a review to bring existing legislation on the conduct of comitology committees into line with Council Decision 1999/468/EC, to "simplify the requirements for the exercise of implementing powers conferred on the Commission". As an obligation to this Decision, the Commission undertook to publish an annual report on the working of committees. The first report was deposited in the Libraries of both Houses on 26 February (Com (2001) 783 Final). As part of the review process, the UK Government have encouraged the Commission to produce and maintain an electronic database of every comitology committee, its agenda and recent actions, to be accessible through its website.
§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the mandate of the Management Committee of the common organisation of agricultural markets for dehydrated fodder is; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the UK representation on it is; what the annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently under its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement. [55247]
§ Mr. MorleyThe mandate of the Management Committee for dehydrated fodder is to assist the Commission in the management of the common organisation of the market for dehydrated fodder as established by Article 17 of Council Regulation (EC) 603–95. The Committee has met once in the last 12 months and was attended by two officials at a cost of about £560. The meeting discussed the rate of aid for dehydrated fodder for 2000–01.
Together with member states, the Commission is currently conducting a review to bring existing legislation on the conduct of comitology committees into line with Council Decision 1999/468/EC, to "simplify the requirements for the exercise of implementing powers conferred on the Commission". As an obligation to this Decision, the Commission undertook to publish an annual report on the working of committees. The first report was deposited in the Libraries of both Houses on 26 February 2002 (Com (2001) 783 Final). As part of the review process, the UK Government have encouraged the Commission to produce and maintain an electronic database of every comitology committee, its agenda and recent actions, to be accessible through its website.
§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the mandate of the Advisory Committee on the transportation of radioactive waste (surveillance and control) is; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the UK representation on it is; what the annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently under its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement. [56722]
§ Mr. JamiesonI have been asked to reply.
I have not been able to identify this committee from the information supplied in the hon. Member's question.
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§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the mandate of the Standing Committee on feedingstuffs is; how many times it has met over the last 12 months; what the United Kingdom representation on it is; what the annual cost of its work is to public funds; if she will list the items currently under its consideration; if she will take steps to increase its accountability and transparency to Parliament; and if she will make a statement. [57484]
§ Ms BlearsI have been asked to reply.
I am advised by the Food Standards Agency that as from 21 February 2002, in accordance with European Committee Regulation 178–2002, the EC Standing Committee for Feedingstuffs was replaced by the animal nutrition section of the Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health. These Committees have met nine times in the year ending 30 April 2002.
The Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health is a regulatory committee composed of representatives of the member states and chaired by the Commission. The United Kingdom is normally represented at the animal feed meetings by officials of the Food Standards Agency and the Veterinary Medicines Directorate, which is an executive agency of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. The main annual cost of its work to UK public funds which can be quantified is made up of travel and subsistence costs totalling around £14,000, part of which was reimbursed by the Commission. The Committee is currently considering a number of legislative measures on animal feeds, including the authorisation of a number of feed additives.
Together with member states, the Commission is currently conducting a review to bring existing legislation on the conduct of comitology committees into line with Council Decision 1999/468/EC, to "simplify the requirements for the exercise of implementing powers conferred on the Commission".
As an obligation to this Decision, the Commission undertook to publish an annual report on the working of committees. The first report was deposited in the Libraries of both Houses on 26 February 2002 (Com (2001) 783 Final).
As part of the review process, the UK Government have encouraged the Commission to produce and maintain an electronic database of every comitology committee, its agendas and recent actions, to be accessible through its website.