§ Mr. Heathcoat-AmoryTo ask the Prime Minister what recent representations the Government have received from staff seconded to the European Communities with respect to instances of(a) fraud and (b) irregular activities within the institutions; what action he has taken in response; and if he will make a statement. [123045]
§ Mr. MacShaneI have been asked to reply.
Since 2000, the UK Government have had a representation from one individual seconded to the EU Institutions. We recommended that they take their information to the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) and/or the appropriate police authorities, since these are the bodies which have responsibility in this area. The UK has no remit to investigate allegations of fraud or other corruption within the institutions of the European Union.
Systems are in place for EU officials to submit evidence where they see wrongdoing. The UK has also supported Commission Vice-President Neil Kinnock's wide-ranging reforms to improve accountability and transparency within the EU Institutions. These include a Whistleblower's Charter; revised staff regulations; and the new Financial Regulation which radically reforms the accounting framework and systems.