We share the widespread outrage at its attitude to history, in particular World War II, but also its policies on enlargement, on immigration, on race and its attitude to the European Union itself. We were also outraged, however, at the tolerance of the left for the tyranny, the terror and the excesses of the former USSR.	contrast
We need European rules. However, we must not give the impression that this will be achieved very easily and quickly.	contrast
We share her objectives, we support her aims. However, we do perhaps regret the lack of integration with other initiatives that she is pursuing, which is apparent if one reads her communication.	contrast
Under some circumstances, Muslims receive protection, but only in cases of indirect discrimination, whilst Afro-Caribbean Muslims, white Muslims and indeed Christians, receive no protection at all. However, the UK is one of the most religiously diverse populations in the European Union, so it is important that the proposals are right.	concession
The reason why it is targeted on those animals is because that is where we are likely to get the best and most accurate information. In addition, however, it must be borne in mind that there are proposals relating to the removal of SRMs, which add another layer of security for the consumer.	contrast
I do not believe we can be prescriptive in the area of science and advice based on science. However, with the evolution of dynamic networks with national scientific bodies and agencies, the authority will become pre-eminent on the European stage.	contrast
Furthermore, although it ended in something of a fiasco, the Pinochet case in the UK had positive aspects to it. The groundbreaking ruling by the House of Lords illustrates one way in which concerned countries can demonstrate to those that commit crimes against humanity that there will be no hiding place for them. However welcome some of these developments may be, more needs to be done.	contrast
. Major changes to European culture that will happen as a result of digital technology are welcome. However, continued good public service broadcasting is essential.	contrast
Consequently proposals are submitted to Parliament under the assent procedure, meaning that Parliament can no longer table amendments, as directives in this area were adopted as single market legislation under the codecision procedure on the basis of Art.100a TEC. However, this reduction of Parliament's influence is acceptable given the highly technical nature of the issues concerned and the Commission's endeavours to inform the EP in good time of plans to draw up new regulations via its competent Standing committees.	contrast
The fact that we have had to wait two years for this proposal to become a practical reality is a poor comment on the urgency with which they regard it, although the situation was plainly critical from the time of the outbreak of the BSE crisis onwards. However, we are not here today for recriminations but for looking ahead.	concession
The potential of gas vehicles to emit a lower level of regulated pollutants than petrol diesel vehicles is well known. However, gas vehicles emit high levels of methane.	concession
However, consumers' enthusiasm for green goods has yet to be matched by industry. The measures contained in this 3-year strategy, however, should hopefully bring manufacturers on board.	contrast
Much of the strategy which honourable Members urge on us tallies, marches very closely, with what we anyway wanted to do. I would stress that however much we might all like to do more we have to focus our action, given the very limited human resources at our disposal, on getting right what we are trying to do already.	concession
For that reason, the Environment and Consumer Policy Committee takes much the same line as the Economic and Monetary Affairs Committee in supporting and endorsing this report. Naturally the point we would wish to make in conclusion, however, is that in protection of the consumer, the provision of information must involve consumer organisations within the Member States themselves.	contrast
Mr President, it is interesting that Mr Prodi has presented today a work programme; however, our agenda says that we are having a debate on a legislative programme.	concession
Indeed, the committee and even Mr Lannoye were prepared to accept E949 and E650. However, whilst I would not claim to be an expert - as no other member of the committee would - on the issue of which of the various propellant sprays can safely be used, enough doubts were raised in committee, not least when we heard from the representative of the Commission, about the propellant sprays themselves.	concession
So far as Miss Kadeer is concerned, obviously I did not have notice of that question and am not in a position to respond. The question will, however, have been recorded.	contrast
All the countries that are signatories to the United Nations Convention of 1951 are well aware of the criteria for determining whether someone should be granted the extremely valuable and significant status of a refugee and I hope that nothing we ever do here would affect the right to make an application within those criteria. However - with new technology, with new travelling arrangements, and indeed with people who want to abuse the system using that technology - it has become more and more difficult for the authorities to treat people in an appropriate and fair manner in handling their cases.	contrast
We must not interfere with the rights of individuals to a fair defence, trial, or prejudice the doctrine of presumed innocence. However, in spite of these concerns, which I hope to alter by amendment later via the legislative process, I vote in favour.	contrast
I appreciate that he is the Commissioner in office today but he may not be in a position to respond to these points himself. However, these are points that I seek to put in the context of certainly the area that I represent and I daresay they are points that would be supported by Jillian Evans on behalf of her party.	concession
There is a tremendous amount of detailed analysis in this report and it clearly shows the consumer benefits in price reductions, choice and increased services that have flowed from deregulation. However, it also clearly shows that there are far too many barriers, and the Commission has our full support in tackling them.	concession
The communication updates the list of priorities for the opening of new delegations and offices. However, even though some of these are urgent priorities, our first concern must be to use available resources to reinforce some of our existing delegations.	contrast
Micro-credit is a big thing but it is not the only answer to all problems. However, we are quite active in this field also.	contrast
I was in sympathy with the EDD Group amendment, talking about rejecting the interference of the EU in the formation of governments of Members States but I had to abstain because it just followed on the condemnation of xenophobia, racism, etc. and I felt that it might be misinterpreted. However, I do wonder about the wisdom of this.	contrast
We really have not progressed very far. However, since Commissioner Monti is here, I would like him to take a message back to Commissioner Bolkestein telling him what the Postal Services Directive was about.	contrast
I am not saying that we have done that. However, if that is the impression we are going to give, we have to be very careful and realise the consequences.	contrast
We cannot spend more than you allow us to but in that case you should not ask us to do more than is possible and criticise us when we have to make judgments about priorities. However, I think we are in a much better position to make those judgments with political guidance from the Council and Parliament.	contrast
Finally, concerning the amendments tabled, which I have only just seen today, I welcome Amendments Nos 22 and 25: Amendment No 22 as a second choice if Amendment No 5 falls and Amendment No 25 as a recital as it hits the tone of my report very well. However, for consistency's sake and with regard to the framework directive which is the basis of this whole legislative approach, I cannot accept the others at present.	contrast
A central feature of the reform will therefore be a more rigorous process for tying the process of priority-setting into resource allocation under a system of activity-based management. I want to emphasise, however, that whilst internal discipline on priority-setting will certainly be introduced by the Commission, it can only be fully effective if Parliament and the Council share it and take an equally stringent attitude to the demands made on the Commission.	concession
I therefore welcome the fact that the issue of food safety, public health and consumer confidence features prominently in the Commission's work programme for 2000. However, I was disappointed with the nature of the proposal for the establishment of a European food authority in the recent White Paper.	concession
Much as I agree with the requirement to hold a debate on the coherence of different Union policies and development policy, I question whether today is the time to be holding it. However, the Council statement gave me hope for the future.	concession
The Gaborone amendment to the CITES text from 1983 would allow us to become a party to the Convention. However, this amendment has not yet entered into force due to the insufficient number of CITES parties who have ratified it.	concession
Finally, on sharks, there is cause for concern, and the proposal on basking sharks should, in particular, be supported. Here, however, CITES will need to work closely with regional fisheries bodies and the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation.	concession
Mr President, it is clear from what the Commissioner has said that the Commission is conscientious in measuring the additionality of structural funding at Member State level, and it was good also to hear his assurances about the various different levels of evaluation that take place. As the Commission will be aware, however, a number of Member States within the European Union have devolved systems of regional government.	concession
The Commission, following its inquiries, was officially assured that the Swedish stud book rules had been aligned with EC legislation. However, in the light of new information, the Commission undertakes to take up the case again and to arrange for a zootechnical inspection mission, should this be required.	concession
This refers to the need to submit the appropriate proposals for the implementation of the protocol when ratified - work has already begun. However, the Commission cannot accept the inclusion of provisions on import and export obligations in the text of the directive.	concession
It must be seen in that context. However, I cannot accept Amendments Nos 33, 40 and 45.	concession
Madam President, this is a compromise amendment which was negotiated among groups and then, of course, examined by the various groups last night. Our Group supports this compromise amendment with, however, the exception of one word: "plus" - "plus proportionnelle".	concession
It is an indication of our deprived status. Cutting the subsidy, however, would make my community even poorer, a community whose farmers have lost 80% of their income in 2½ years.	concession
In practice, the course of action and rigorous scrutiny which I requested to be applied in the case of Mr Cahn meant that his case was dealt with very thoroughly and entirely properly. I do not believe, however, that the Commission, or indeed other institutions, should have to rely on individual motivation by officials or by Commissioners and on rather ad hoc means of applying principles, which are, to say the least, rather generalised.	concession
The Commission started preparations for the renewal of this regulation in Spring 1999. However, these discussions were delayed by the former Commission's resignation last year.	concession
The European Parliament position is, and always has been, realistic and morally right. However I must express my grave concern about the possible misery which would be caused were we to delay.	concession
I understand your determination not to reduce the financial amounts for development aid to South Africa. However, I find it absolutely necessary that the regulation is adopted in time to ensure uninterrupted implementation of activities in South Africa.	concession
It is totally in the hands of Parliament, as it should be. However, I feel I have a responsibility vis-à-vis Parliament to make it totally clear that I see a real danger of this ending up in a long, difficult postponement - something that will create delays in our current activities in South Africa.	concession
Finally, I should like to make it clear that I am not asking Parliament to spend massive amounts of new money. However, to spend one or two per cent more in order to ensure that we remain effective is worth it, and we should look at prudence in the context of the wider demands of this Parliament.	concession
I wish to thank the Commissioner for that very full answer and, in particular, for the last part where he indicates that the Commission is looking at speeding up and, where possible, giving fast-track approval for state aids. However, in some Member States there is still a serious problem created by delays in decision-taking on state aids.	concession
The package of proposals that I mentioned before will, therefore, be completed a bit later this year with a proposal for a directive that will cover the issue of temporary residence permits so as to ensure the protection of various victims of trafficking including the victims of trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation. This element must, however, be seen as a crucial complement to the first set of initiatives.	concession
Consumers, especially young women, are being sold the idea that so-called "light" or "mild" cigarettes are better for them, as if they were the tobacco equivalent of low-fat yoghurt. However, low-fat yoghurt does not rot your teeth, blacken your lungs or put you on a ventilator.	concession
I am aware that some in Parliament would prefer to ban such descriptions immediately. However, I do not consider that this is appropriate.	concession
More by good fortune than good planning there has not yet been a major accident with a ship carrying radioactive materials that has resulted in a major spillage. However, it must be said that there have been a number of incidents.	concession
Although industrial and radioactive discharges continue from a range of sources, the practice of direct dumping with little thought for the future is now widely regarded as unacceptable. However, the legacy of the years when materials were simply dumped remains and sometimes comes back to haunt us, with severe consequences.	concession
I accept that they are trying their very best to put forward a solution which enables them - who know as well as anyone else the seriousness of the situation - to tackle this problem. The methodology, however, is quite inadequate and can only be very temporary.	concession
The PSE Group is pleased to support this report and to congratulate the rapporteur. However, there will be no surprise that we will reject those amendments that have been put down in the name of certain members of the TDI Group.	concession
The suggested extension of the directive to a new swathe of businesses and professions looks on the face of it to be both dangerous and burdensome: dangerous in that there might be a threat to the privileged lawyer/client relationship which is the linchpin of access to justice in a civil society, and burdensome because in theory this directive would now extend to your local high street jeweller. However, it is one thing to require a multinational firm of accountants to comply with this sort of regulation, quite another to require a small firm or one-person business to do so.	concession
The Commission has maintained its support for land reform through this micro-projects programme, which is actually for poverty alleviation assistance for legally acquired land in resettlement schemes. However, in April the Commission froze the EUR 2 million for technical and policy support for land reform.	concession
At one time, Greece was part of that problem. However, the impressive results by the Greeks goes to show that the improvements can be made if there is strong action and real cooperation by national governments.	concession
Good rail access into ports is vital in this context. We have to accept, however, that there are times when it is roads that provide the necessary access into the hinterland.	concession
I have absolute confidence in her abilities and attitude and wish her well in her forthcoming discussions. I would, however, say that there is no rush.	concession
The Commission believes that all undertakings will be able to prepare themselves in time for the final changeover to the euro, including the adaptation of their computer systems and software. However, the present state of preparation is a matter for concern.	concession
I would ask the Commission to confirm today the undertaking it has already given Parliament in relation to this point. I would, however, like to make my personal point of view very clear.	concession
Sport has a lot of money and it cannot expect to be exempt from free market rules. I do, however, disagree with the reports when they call for a Treaty clause on sport.	concession
It summarises in detail the experience of the Commission in applying the regulation and the various problems it has identified. It does not, however, contain precise proposals for the future regulation.	concession
As regards e-commerce, it is fair to say that the United States of America had a head start on the European Union. However, the European Union is catching up fast and the implementation of a broad range of telecommunications directives and regulations would certainly assist in this process.	concession
It is fair to say that the new President, Mr Prodi, and his team are certainly committed to implementing the financial control requirements as laid down by this Parliament. However, the reform of the European Commission must now be taken in the context of the debate that is going to take place in the run-up to the forthcoming Intergovernmental Conference and the reform of various EU policies and initiatives.	concession
So far as the transition period is concerned, many of us will have sympathy with the need for some form of transition because, clearly, if you amend the regulations in such a way that you move from a system which is being used over a long period of time to a completely new system some time will be required. However, I hope that the countries of the Union will not use this as an excuse, if it is passed, but seek to implement the new system as rapidly as they can - in other words, two years should be regarded as an exception and as a maximum rather than as the normal ration for the job.	concession
We should welcome, therefore, the expansion of industrial crop activity and the opportunities provided for diversification. However, I wish to raise the question of land eligibility, which appears to be a particular problem in the UK.	concession
Since the start of the 1998/99 marketing year, it has not been necessary to pay private storage aid. However, it is worth emphasising that over that same period the old buying-in intervention system would not have been activated either.	concession
My Group is not favourable to the inclusion of religion or belief in the scope of this directive because that needs much more thought. However, we believe unequal treatment should be caught if it only pretends to be based on religion or nationality but is, in fact, race discrimination pure and simple.	concession
Mr President, we are all opposed to discrimination and violence of all forms. However, I do not believe extending EU competence to this area is either necessary or useful to its cause.	concession
Of course such a notion has superficial appeal, but if it leads to the appointment of at least 20 additional officials without a clear prospect of direct efficiency gains it should be resisted. It is important, however, that institutions which do not employ an internal auditor take the job of internal audit seriously.	concession
I put the point that the containment by Russia of arms flows from Russia would be a very welcome step forward in terms of shared efforts to combat terrorism. There are, however, two sides to this political tale of war and suffering, and I think we must seek more strongly to understand the causes of conflict between Russia and Chechnya, so that we can help to stem the flow of human blood more quickly another time.	concession
The Commission has, since the Gulf War in 1991, been the major donor of humanitarian aid to Iraq, to the tune of over EUR 242 million. Another EUR 8.6 million is allocated from the 2000 ECHO budget. The Commission is, however, concerned about the restrictions imposed by the Iraqi Government on NGO operations, which may jeopardise the implementation of ECHO financed humanitarian aid programmes in Iraq.	concession
Concerning the proposals for the forthcoming Conference of the CITES parties, the Commission has yet to adopt a formal proposal. However, our general orientation on the major issues is as follows:	concession
I also welcome the ongoing commitment to the Galileo project and the review of the TENs strategy, especially with its highlight on the railway sector, a sector which we believe to be very important indeed. However, I have to say to you that my group deplores the fact that several dossiers at this moment are blocked in Council.	concession
This is in particular the case for Amendments Nos 3 and 5. I agree, however, with the statement in Amendment No 2 saying that no compensation has been made payable to salmon farmers.	concession
I look forward to having a useful exchange of views this afternoon with the Members of Parliament who would clearly have preferred to do this last week if there had been an appropriate parliamentary forum available. However, having regard to my contacts with the presidents of the relevant committees, I recognise that this was not feasible.	concession
I have a lot of sympathy with that protest. I have, however, no sympathy for Mrs Lucas trying to hide behind her Parliamentary immunity.	concession
As an Irish Member of the European Parliament, coming from a country which has large reserves of rich water, I support the vast majority of the proposals included in this directive. However, I would now like to look at the areas of difference between Parliament's Committee on the Environment and the Council.	concession
It puts into place a certain number of controls and mechanisms to ensure that we can have this kind of harmonised regulatory authorities. However, it is in relation to the second proposal that there is most concern.	concession
I know that this is somewhat controversial, particularly, because of the attitude of the United States Government towards the Castro regime. However, on this occasion, the European Union will be insisting on introducing political criteria into the Lomé Convention Accord.	concession
Council Decision 90/424 constitutes another instrument for Community financial support in case of disease outbreaks. I must emphasise, however, that there are serious constraints.	concession
I voted for these paragraphs because I agree with the objectives of the rapporteur. I would, however, like to ensure that my voting intentions are not misinterpreted.	concession
I would very much agree with your observation that the European Union should adopt a long-term structural policy to tackle the causes of migration and I therefore agree that the deadlines set in the action plans are rather optimistic. The action plans, however, can be considered as a first step in creating an external policy on migration of the European Union and should therefore be given a chance.	concession
I congratulate the pair of them but in this Haug report we make certain assumptions about the revision, about redeployment in Category 4 and about the needs of Kosovo. However, I need to remind the Council - and at least we have one willing scribe down there if no one else is doing the night shift for the Council to get the message across - that really, if the Commission makes the proposal which we expect them to make, then they are duty bound, because of the interinstitutional agreement, to discuss with Parliament what that revision should be before their first reading.	concession
We have other systems of distributive justice on this side of the Atlantic, not paralleled in, for example, the United States of America, which has a different but somewhat tougher product liability law than we have. There, however, it is a kind of forensic lottery, as academics have called it, because many people who are injured get nothing at all and some people who are injured get enormous damages.	concession
Therefore, I cannot give you authoritative information on the actions of the European Patent Office in this particular case. However, given my experience of the European Patent Office, which I visited in Munich recently, I personally should be very surprised if this unfortunate occurrence was anything other than a mistake during the examination process.	concession
However, this amendment goes beyond the Commission proposal and is therefore not acceptable to the Commission as it stands. The Commission is, however, willing to reconsider this amendment in the light of its original proposal and within the framework of an overall compromise.	concession
The Commission takes the view that the Canadian NAFO inspectors in question acted in breach of the NAFO scheme by taking away documents from the vessel without the permission of the master and by continuing to stay on board the vessel. However, it is relevant to note that in this case the master of the vessel and the Portuguese authorities did not oppose the prolonged stay of the Canadian inspectors on the vessel and the fishing activities of the Santa Mafalda were not obstructed.	concession
In response to a specific issue raised by the honourable Member's question, I have to point out that the produce of new plantings would not give entitlement to aid. However, the Commission hopes that the Community producers concerned will benefit fully under derogations from the rules as they relate to approved planting programmes, although the olive oil in question would count towards the maximum guaranteed quantity which has already been set.	concession
As a Liberal, I agree with that position: people should be allowed to choose for themselves. However, everything possible must be done to ensure that those decisions are made with full knowledge of the consequences.	concession
Similarly, amendments which would seek to totally exclude exports from the scope of the directive are not considered acceptable since we need to cover all products manufactured in the Union in order to ensure that products finally consumed here respect the rules. However, a transition period for exports can be justified in order to allow firms to change brand formulae as appropriate and to modify their marketing strategies.	concession
It is an indication of that old truth that being more transparent invariably means being more successful. At this stage I should like to add, however, that on 19 May we only concluded - a point made by the presidency - our bilateral agreement with China on her terms of accession to the WTO.	concession
The agreement applies to buildings and Council staff but not necessarily to seconded military personnel, whose salary comes from their own Member State. However their overheads would be paid for by the EU in the future with no real monitoring or accountability role by any institution.	concession
The Eurosystem would prefer to maintain its present stance of cooperation but will if necessary step up the pressure on the banking sector. However, it would be unrealistic to expect the service level for cross-border payments to reach that of domestic payments in all respects by 2002.	concession
We gladly accept complaints by e-mail and many of them contain well - presented allegations of maladministration. However in all, more of the e-mail complaints are directed against authorities of Member States.	concession
Sixty-two of these settlements occurred last year, reducing the scope for friendly solutions to be proposed by the Ombudsman. However, we did achieve one friendly solution in 1999 in a case where the Commission and the Council agreed that the complainant should be paid the amount due him for his work as a European Union regional coordinator monitoring the Palestinian elections.	concession
As far as Syria is concerned, everyone recognises that President Bashar al-Assad needs to consolidate his position. However, here too the differences with Israel are narrow and we think they could be bridged.	concession
People are more likely to support peace if they feel that their living conditions are improving. However, at present, economic growth is stagnant, and unemployment is distressingly high, over 15 to 20% overall.	concession
Like many people, I too, Madam President, was disappointed that the recent Middle East peace talks in Camp David did not culminate in a peace settlement between the Palestinians and the Israeli Government. However, I do not believe that these peace talks were a complete failure either.	concession
It is a welcome clarification on where Parliament stands on digital and audiovisual sector issues for the forthcoming revision of TV without frontiers. However, I want to confine my remarks this evening to public service broadcasting in the digital age because there are some very important public access issues that we need to address when defining the principles from the crossover in our current media to the development of digital broadcasting.	concession
I, as a British Conservative, often find fault - and it is very easy to find fault - with many of the programmes organised and paid for by the European Commission and the European Union. However I have a soft spot for Erasmus because it is very difficult to find fault with that particular programme.	concession
She has put a great deal of work into it. I have to say, however, and it is not her fault, that there are sins of omission as far as I am concerned.	concession
On disability, whilst we welcome the principle of the proposals, the UK are justly proud of our own disability discrimination legislation, but we do not want to impose our model on other Member States. However, we do want to ensure the directive lets us continue with the approach in the Disability Discrimination Act, although we recognise that some relatively minor changes may be required.	concession
This is a very complex area and the proposals are far-reaching and ambitious. However, we feel it is important that the Community has legislation which is clear and workable.	concession
It is true that there is no specific Community legislation for the contained use of genetically modified plants and animals. However, Article 2(4) of the common position obliges Member States to ensure that these GMOs are handed over to a third party only if stringent containment measures are in place, otherwise notification under Part C of the directive is necessary.	concession
The scientists and the fishermen both agree that something has to be done. However, more than a dozen large Belgian beam trawlers have been granted a derogation from this regulation so the vessels that caused the very problem in the first place are carrying on fishing whilst it is a criminal offence for the UK fleet to do so.	contrast
We therefore consider that, at this stage, the presence of international observers would not only fail to improve the quality and the transparency of the local elections, there is also a very real risk that this mission could be misused by local authorities as a way to legitimise an unsatisfactory process. However, we intend to involve ourselves in promoting the process of democratisation in Equatorial Guinea.	contrast
I fully share the European Parliament's concern that very little progress has been visible to customers. However, there are strong indications that banks are making considerable efforts to prepare the ground for a more efficient handling of cross-border credit transfers.	concession
We share in all expressions of regret that there remains inequality and gender discrimination and especially under-representation of women in politics. However, we are not convinced that one form of discrimination should be countered with another form of discrimination, namely the introduction of quotas to guarantee women elected places.	concession
EU observers are not being sent to legitimise an electoral process so far marked by intimidation and violence. However, international observers could play an important role in deterring violence and building confidence, especially in the rural areas.	concession
This resolution contains many points that I fully support on the IGC, on the Charter of Fundamental Rights and other aspects of Community policy. However, I find myself unable to support it because of the inclusion of paragraph 8 on Austria.	concession
On the matter of a referendum I accept his explanation. However the underlying thesis is correct.	concession
I understand the desire of my colleague, Mr de Roo, to take the standards further. However, I have to sound a note of caution.	concession
The release of the hostages on 13 July, the arrest of the rebel leader and his main associates on 26 July and the efforts of the Government to reinstate law and order give some cause for satisfaction. However, there are still serious worries about the future of Fiji.	concession
On the text of Amendments Nos 10, 13, 14, 18, the Commission agrees with the principles behind the changes proposed and can agree with most of the texts put forward. However, we do propose a few changes or additions, mainly to be sure that we take account of all possible situations and do not create any unintended holes in the safety net we intend to provide with this initiative.	concession
We are committed to 36% reduction of export refunds over six years and we are nearing the end of that period under our obligations in the GATT Uruguay Round Agreement. However, these cuts should not be targeted in such an arbitrary manner on a small number of industries, as the Commission has chosen to do.	concession
That remains a possibility for the long term though it would take some time because one would first have to get in place the necessary legal framework. However my principal concern at the moment is not how we get from A to Z - that often seems rather easier than getting from A to B. What we have to do - whatever the long term objective may be is - to find better ways of managing our external assistance straightaway.	contrast
The budgetary authority will ultimately have to judge the right scale of European Union external aid programmes. However, my only aim is to put the Commission in a position where it can run these programmes competently.	contrast
The Commission would certainly prefer to be able to reduce this time-limit. However, this seems at present not feasible for different reasons.	contrast
The risk is that it would weaken the credibility of legislation and, in particular, the independence of the regulators. However, of course we are ready to discuss any comments made in the report.	contrast
We took stock of the European Union's relations with Russia and the situation there, including in Chechnya, in the light of the recent EU-Russia Summit, which I think was regarded as fairly successful. It is too early to judge President Putin's economic programme; however, our basic message is that a sound programme will be vital to boost investor confidence.	contrast
It will help consolidate democratic and civil structures in eastern and central Europe, expand market economies and help build a European continent at peace with itself. However, EU Member State governments face difficult choices.	contrast
Proposals made by the panels are then presented to the Commission and the Commission in turn makes recommendations to the contracting parties. These conditions are binding, however contracting parties may lodge objections within a six-month period.	contrast
The statistics quoted on child mortality speak for themselves and are wholly unacceptable. However, the situation is hardly better for other parts of the population.	contrast
I wish to recall that it is, in principle, up to national courts to deal with possible violations of these rules, if and when they are brought before them by national representatives. However, even when existing rules or arrangements are formally respected this does not mean that management's attitude is socially irreprehensible.	contrast
The recognition that the 60 000 strong military force will be involved in both peacemaking and peacekeeping is also appropriate. However, while all these developments are indeed welcome, I would like to address a matter which I have raised in this House on previous occasions.	contrast
I agree with Mrs Morgan that maybe we need to reflect on how we discharge budgets in the future. However, for now, the Commission has a number of questions to answer and I hope it will start right now.	contrast
We have reserve powers to intervene if the market actors cannot agree. However, the market is developing open standards.	contrast
Once it has been formally adopted and funds made available we will proceed to finalise agreements for their implementation. However, time will be against us since we are fast approaching the end of the financial year.	contrast
I also hope it will produce greater cost effectiveness. However, if we are to succeed in this, our Member States must join forces and participate in this exercise.	contrast
Export refunds are an important instrument in sustaining the industry's competitiveness by compensating for high prices of basic agricultural products in the Union. However, both budget constraints and commitments under the WTO severely restrict available refunds that will no longer be sufficient to cover the industry's export opportunities.	contrast
UK Conservatives voted today against the Skinner Report, for the reasons given in my speech to the House the day before. However, despite what I said in that speech, my comments were deliberately misrepresented by subsequent speakers from the UK Labour party, presumably for the same domestic party political reasons which dictate so much of their comments to the House.	contrast
It can be seen in the phenomenal growth in the stock markets of Europe in the value of dot.com companies and just recently in the major changes in the composition of the FTSE 100 index in London. I cannot help thinking however that although these values have gone sky high and we may expect the bubble to burst, nevertheless the underlying structural change in our economies is here to stay.	contrast
In addition, the Commission reference should be deleted since the Commission does not necessarily play a role under Part B - national consent. However, the Commission cannot accept Amendment No 12 concerning the prevention of gene transfer.	concession
We are opposed to discrimination, we do believe in equality of treatment between men and women. We do not accept, however, that the imposition of legal quotas is the way to achieve equality of treatment.	contrast
We are looking, therefore, within the Structural Funds programme not just to see industrial restructuring but also to see a wider improvement in the whole of the economic base within the Principality. What is, however, deeply damaging for us is the belief that in some way the granting of Structural Funds assistance is something that has been, in a sense, a success of the government. It is sadly only a recognition of the very great difficulties that Wales faces.	concession
We have made a lot of progress over the past couple of years since the reformed system of scientific advice was adopted as a consequence of the BSE crisis. However, the Commission believes that we must go further.	concession
It involves taking action in a given policy area when the science is not clear, but where there are reasonable grounds for concern that the potential risks are big enough to require action. However, the use of the precautionary principle has been increasingly in the spotlight in recent years.	concession
On the face of it these two proposals appear to be implementing certain procedural changes to facilitate freedom of movement across Europe and to give effect to the recent court cases Mrs Berger referred to in her opening remarks. However, in the case of the United Kingdom, we believe they go further than that in a manner which is unacceptable.	concession
This was an important consideration for us. I would like to say however that it is, and has always been, a very modest budget and therefore the funding for this programme is more symbolic than real.	concession
The development partnerships are a very clever idea, even though they are experimental. I have two major concerns, however, about the development partnerships.	concession
Madam President, many of the speakers from the Socialist Group have already identified key areas where there are gaps in the Commission's statement. However, we have acknowledged that this is an innovative and very welcome initiative by the Commission.	concession
The Parliament services asked to meet with the assistants yesterday to make the necessary physical arrangements. However, the appointment was cancelled at the last minute.	concession
I also accept and acknowledge that a number of initiatives to update EU legislation in the field of GMOs are necessary. However, this technical amendment is not the correct instrument to introduce such initiatives.	concession
ECHO is currently focusing on the provision of medical supplies and emergency health care, on support to institutions as well as vaccination. However, efforts are increasingly oriented towards the establishment of a self-sufficient healthcare system in the province.	concession
The Commission supports any effort aimed at the settlement of the disputes between Turkey and Armenia and regrets that there has not yet been any normalisation of relations between these two countries. In the present political circumstances it is however unrealistic to imagine that the border between Armenia and Turkey, as well as the one between Armenia and Azerbaijan could be opened without settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.	concession
Much of this has to do with real disagreement between sector interests in each and every Member State, as has been very honestly said here in this House: people more or less identify with their spheres of interest, and all this is legitimate. I would, however, warn against the illusion that incoherence is the product of some kind of a mechanical deficiency in the system.	concession
There is much to be praised in the approach to the problem suggested by the rapporteur. However, the question of taxation or charges for the use of water is a matter which, under the rules of subsidiarity, should be left to the Member States for decision.	concession
I support the objectives of this community action in the field of water policy. However, I do not support the proposal that domestic water users be charged for water used.	concession
In relation to China, we should not be dissuaded from raising the issue simply because discussions on it may be blocked. However, it is imperative that the EU speaks and acts as one, and threats of trade sanctions should strengthen rather than weaken our resolve.	concession
however, it is imperative that the EU speaks and acts as one, and threats of trade sanctions should strengthen rather than weaken our resolve. However, if full expression is to be given to the decisions which may eventually be taken at Geneva, then the office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights must be provided with the necessary resources.	concession
Whether through the minimum wage in Manchester or debt relief in Durban, Labour's aim of poverty reduction remains the same. There is still much to be done, however.	concession
On the question of the indigenous peoples in the US, I am sure that the resolution which was primarily addressed to the US authorities will have been noted by them. Our general policy however, is to recognise the inherent dignity and the unique contribution of indigenous people to the development and plurality of society, something we are looking at particularly keenly in the context of the northern dimension which we are trying to develop and which we are discussing with North America.	concession
There are absolute assurances of that and provisions made for it in the White Paper. In addition, however, and very importantly, because it is a transition period, there will be training, there will be advice, there will be support, there will be assurances.	concession
At present dear colleagues, we can never be fully informed about the vast ecosystem that is the sea, nor about the multitude of factors which affect the stock of resources in this aqua system. However, we should never blind ourselves to scientific research, we should never cease to gather information, we should never cease to explore improvements in existing systems and, if necessary, we should at least consider policy changes.	concession
With this in mind, we produced a one-page resolution highlighting key areas. However, this has not reached the compromise resolution, so we wish now to put down a clear marker for the future about how this process should be conducted.	concession
We agree that review of the legislation should take account of aircraft emissions, further emission reductions in regions bordering on the Community, measures taken in applicant countries and transport factors. The Commission cannot however agree to bring forward the dates for reports to Parliament and Council.	concession
Allowance should be made for the fact that smaller Member States have less room to spread the load. However we are dealing here with transboundary pollution, so the Commission considers that adjustments to ceilings for individual Member States can only be made as part of a general review of ceilings.	concession
They are quite different and must be dealt with quite separately. However, it is in the interest of all the institutions that the procedures are clearly defined and transparent for everybody.	concession
You are, of course, quite correct in relation to that. That agreement, however, was reached with the Council subsequent to the initial drafting of this document.	concession
Conservative MEPs will continue to examine the progress of the proposed Charter through our representative on that body, Timothy Kirkhope, MEP, (Yorkshire), and in discussions with our colleagues in the European Parliament, and we will be as positive as possible in this exercise. However, we do not hold out too much hope of converting this whole exercise into something which could be really positive in turning back the tide of legislative bureaucracy and over-regulation, and genuinely protecting the human rights of the citizens of Europe.	concession
British Labour Members fully support a Charter of Fundamental Rights which makes visible citizens' rights across the EU. However, we are at a very early stage in the process of determining the Charter.	concession
My Group voted in favour of the Jackson resolution on Structural Funds in the environment because we believe in the principle of ensuring effective implementation of environmental law - in this case, the wild birds and habitats directive. However, we are surprised that Members of this House voted for the original proposal in paragraph 7 to cut off funds to some of our poorest regions in the EU.	concession
I believe that this is a good report and deserves support. However, problems arise in the detail of paragraphs 52, 53, 54 and 56.	concession
That is simply unacceptable. We are further told, however, that all is well, because the additionality rules in the regulation are being carried through properly.	concession
It is also meant to fill possible gaps in sectoral legislation, for instance market surveillance or emergency procedures, which are rarely foreseen in specific pieces of legislation. However, it does not apply where a specific sector of legislation covers the same aspects under consideration.	concession
Furthermore, a number of Member States have already announced that it is their intention to bring forward their own testing at Member State level, and it may very well be that we are going to have Member States introducing these systems in a shorter space of time. One must always bear in mind, however, that a system such as this will require not only legislative provisions to be put in place but the technical details will also have to be arranged.	concession
I fully support the necessary standards to protect the health and quality of life for our citizens. The strictest possible criteria to reduce noise and emissions from aircraft engines can only be achieved however by using performance criteria and not design criteria which is commercially sponsored and fast-track in anti-competitive legislation.	concession
Mr President, finally I note that you consider that the action plans pay too little attention to the internal policies. However, I understand the primary aim of the action plan to be to contribute to the development of an external policy of the Union on migration.	concession
This is both for administrative and legal reasons. The Commission, however, acknowledges that these amendments aim at addressing the possible problems that certain industries might face with strict time-limited consent.	concession
This builds on the original proposal as presented at first reading in Parliament. However, this amendment goes beyond the Commission proposal and is therefore not acceptable to the Commission as it stands.	concession
however, this amendment goes beyond the Commission proposal and is therefore not acceptable to the Commission as it stands. The Commission is, however, willing to reconsider this amendment in the light of its original proposal and within the framework of an overall compromise.	concession
It looks bad on TV; it is a hundred times worse when you stand amongst it, when people are in such dire situations. However, I saw food aid being delivered in Eritrea by German NGOs to a camp of 16 000 people, spread over 7 kilometres in case of bombing raids.	concession
Madam President, I think it is fair that it be put to the vote. However, my Group and many others will vote against it in order to support Amendments Nos 100 and 101, which will achieve almost exactly the same effect with the slight improvements.	concession
We established our voting lists in favour of this amendment on the basis of the French version. However, I understand that the original version is, in fact, the English one, in which case, unless the word "devolved" in the English version can be removed, I will recommend my Group to vote against this amendment.	concession
African countries must work together to consolidate their future. However, the old Lomé Convention made democracy, human rights and the rule of law a requirement for development aid.	concession
A single area payment is in line with the view that growers should respond to market demands rather than be driven by CAP subsidies. However, I shall not repeat the many reservations about the proposals that colleagues have already mentioned.	concession
It would be a signal to South Africa of our dedication to the effective entry into force of the agreement on trade development and cooperation and would prevent new tensions arising around issues still to be discussed concerning wines and spirits or fisheries. If, however, the Community is unable to adopt the regulation in time, our development programme for this year will be jeopardised and confidence undermined.	concession
I broadly welcome Mr Ferber's report. However, there are three fronts to which Parliament needs to pay more attention between now and September.	concession
These proposals take us a good deal further down the line in the field of diagnostic testing, in a more sceptical attitude to animals which ought to have been under suspicion but in some Member States were not, and in terms of the general prospect of fallen stock being tested for the possibility of BSE. I want to say something, however, coming from the Member State which first suffered the full rigours of BSE and which has also, as a result of that, been in the vanguard of cleaning up this problem.	concession
These rules will form a blueprint that can be followed in the event of any new scientific information being made available or if more radical action is required. However, I am aware, Commissioner, that the vast majority of Member States are of the opinion that the classification of countries for SRM removal purposes should be based on an internationally recognised code set out and agreed by the EU and the many - over 150 third countries - under the auspices of the OIE, the World Organisation of Animal Health, which is based in Paris.	concession
I welcome the principle of laying down common rules for the prevention and control of transmissible spongiform encephalopathies. However, this proposal may have negative consequences for countries trading in sheep and this is an important point as it currently stands.	concession
However, I cannot accept Amendments Nos 1 and 2 because it is inappropriate to introduce recitals in a piece of legislation which are not matched by substantive provisions in the text. However, I shall be raising your concerns on pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, which a number of you mentioned, with my colleague Mr Liikanen and I will ask him to address those concerns.	concession
I can partly accept Amendment No 50 to Annex V where it exempts gelatine from hides from the ban. However, I cannot accept the exemption for feeding cats with ruminant protein from the ban.	concession
On the conditions for marketing animals: we welcome the intention of Amendment No 53 to Article 16. However, I propose to reformulate the text to ensure approval of the equivalent schemes by commitology.	concession
To extend it to groups such as offshore oil workers and sea fishermen is particularly so. However, because of the special issue of over-worked junior doctors in the UK, as Conservative MEPs we voted last November to extend the directive to them.	concession
That would simply be following the bad practices recently tried out by certain burger chains. However, at least some of those chains pay their part-time 17-year-old staff more per hour than some junior doctors get in overtime payment.	concession
Mr President, this proposal will bring an additional seven million workers in Europe under the protection of the Working Time Directive, allowing them to have reasonable working conditions and proper rest periods. However, to get a 48-hour week, junior doctors must wait nine years minimum and possibly twelve years.	concession
As such the measurement deviations at Sellafield do not have any consequences on the safe transport of pellets. However, the Commission welcomes any decision which would increase even further the safe transport of nuclear material.	concession
It exposed a poor safety culture and an inadequate secondary control procedure in the manufacture of MOX fuel. However, we should note that the response of BNFL to the nuclear inspectorate report has already resulted in very significant management changes.	concession
The accepted amendments include the proposal to increase the size of labels. However, we need to be very careful not to stray from consumer information to the area of consumer harassment which would be counterproductive.	concession
I believe we should be looking at making invoices much clearer, for example, so that the consumer can tell whether he or she has chosen the right tariff. Where I differ with the rapporteur, however, is with his concerns on spectrum auctions.	concession
It is not subject to the democratic control of the European Parliament because it is not part of the treaties of the European Union. However, the European Parliament has a budgetary role, which is why the Commission's budgetary proposals are not acceptable.	concession
As you know, it is not a question specific to this debate. However, you should bear in mind that for the Kosovo programme we set up a specific agency.	concession
We need clear measures to help victims with access to assistance, justice and compensation. However, it must be said that if we feel the Commission could do more, the biggest problem is by far the Member States.	concession
Mr President, during the debate on common security and defence policy there was a roll call vote on Amendment No 36. However, yesterday's Minutes refers to the wrong paragraph and thus the vote does not reflect what actually took place in this Chamber.	concession
The Commission is sensitive to the desire for clarification which it furthermore took into account in its explanatory memorandum. It takes the view, however, that the appropriate place for such clarification is not in an article of the regulation, and it is prepared to draft a new recital based on the gist of these amendments.	concession
Although there are difficulties with the two directives and liberalization, it is part of creating Europe and lower prices do benefit people. However there are environmental implications which we have not taken very seriously.	concession
I congratulate Mr Swoboda and Mr Jarzembowski on their excellent reports which, if adopted, will make a major contribution to railway development. I share some of Mr Watts' concern, however, about Amendment No 1 in relation to the licensing of railway undertakings and the proposed deletion of the replacement Article 12.	concession
I hope that when he publishes the macroeconometric model he will do so in a form which makes it available and easily usable by outside researchers, perhaps on CD-ROM. However, in connection with Parliament's view of last year I would urge Mr Duisenberg to reconsider a formal framework for the publication of summary minutes.	concession
I can understand why the rapporteur and Mr Papayannakis are weary of further controversy. However, we are almost at the end.	concession
So we must give credit to the short sea shipping industry. However there is always room for improvement. The shipping industry is the first to acknowledge this.	concession
That may save me a bit of work if I am doing the votes later in the week. However we cannot support Amendment No 25, which proposes an individual examination of financing proposals by the MED Committee.	concession
We will however be rejecting some of her amendments, notably those that seek to extend the system to all financial plans, to defence and civil defence, to consultation beyond what is reasonable and to the general policies she has just mentioned, which become more of a wish-list than firm proposals. However, we agree that it makes no sense to exclude projects financed wholly or partially by the European Union, especially structural funds, and we certainly agree that it makes sense to talk to neighbouring states outside the European Union.	concession
The minutes of the meeting under discussion would normally have been adopted at the occasion of the next SCTEE plenary meeting which took place on 4 February 2000. However, at that plenary meeting several committee members considered that the minutes were in general too long and requested the secretariat to follow the format of other scientific committees.	concession
In his letter the President made absolutely clear the Commission's commitment to all measures which safeguard children's rights and mention a number of areas both external and internal where the Commission was active on these highly important matters. However, the President also sought to situate the Commission's action in these areas, as in others, in the context of the Treaties' revision.	concession
After that period a decision will be taken on the form in which to continue with the European police college. The Commission continues to take the position, however, that the draft regulation should contain a clear obligation for the European police college to become a fixed institution after having functioned for a few years as a network.	concession
The possibility of re-exporting non-complying consignments to the country of origin should remain open. However, in order to meet Parliament's concern the Commission accepts that it is appropriate to insert an additional provision that re-export is possible after informing the competent authority of the country of origin and receiving assurances that the contaminated lot will be safely disposed of	concession
As far as the amendments presented are concerned, the Commission can accept Amendments Nos 1, 3, 4 and 5 that improve the Commission proposal. However, the Commission cannot accept Amendment No 2 calling on the Commission to present, forthwith, a proposal setting out an exhaustive list of the materials authorised for feeding animals.	concession
For individuals in my constituency this legislation is long overdue. However, I regret that some of the Christian Democrat Members in the Committee on Legal Affairs, in voting against the employment directive, saw it as unnecessary because it would, and I quote: "restrict freedom of choice in private life".	concession
It would not be right if I said that a geographical advantage were to be achieved by fiscal means so, to that extent, I must disappoint Mr Purvis. However, if he comes to me with a particular case in point, a particular region, or whatever if may be, then I would be happy to raise the matter with my colleague, Mr Barnier.	concession
I have instructed my services to find the most efficient solution in the next few weeks. Discontinuing support for the information campaign does not, however, mean that the Commission will abandon its other activities to protect children against violence and abuse, notably the STOP programme.	concession
For the more general question on the follow-up by Member States to the Council resolution on operating instructions for technical consumer goods, it should be noted that this resolution is addressed to Member States and to the economic operators and does not involve any specific follow-up by the Commission. However, the Commission will ask the Member States to provide information on the follow-up given the resolution.	concession
We have no reports as to whether the death sentence on Ms Ayubi has been carried out. According to European Union diplomats in Teheran, however, no death sentence by stoning has been carried out in Iran during the last three years.	concession
In the course of preparing my report, I have had to struggle with that particular conundrum. There are those in this House who will wish to emphasise the exemptions; however, I wish to make it clear that for the most part the operation of state aid works against free competition within a single market.	concession
There is an old saying: "No taxation without representation" . However, when we look at the development budget there are all sorts of peculiarities which we should concentrate on.	concession
The Commission can agree to these Amendments Nos 1 and 2 and must therefore oppose the amendment from Mrs Auroi requesting the deletion of any transitional measures. However, I regret that I am not in a position to accept written Amendment No 3 which Mr Graefe zu Baringdorf put forward last week.	concession
This paragraph is clearly in line with the basic principle that discoveries are not patentable. However the second paragraph of Article 5 states that an element isolated from the human body or otherwise produced by means of a technical process, including the sequence or the partial sequence of a gene, may constitute a patentable invention, even if the structure of that element is identical to that of a natural element.	concession
The report of the Commission presents an assessment of the current economic position of the European economy which it finds promising, especially in terms of the recent recovery of economic growth expected to lead to a reduction of unemployment to 8% by the year 2001. This picture in the opinion of your rapporteur has to be set against a background of sluggishness, of growth of only 1.9% per year throughout the 1990s, despite instances of higher growth rates during that decade which we were, however, unable to consolidate.	concession
Mr President, my Group would like to welcome the annual legislative programme. However, we have some concerns about the process.	concession
This week I had a visitors' group from the Winchester Probus Club, mainly retired people and, in general terms, well informed about world affairs. However, you could write what they knew about the aims of the EU on the back of a one euro note.	concession
We are always very reactionary and talk about things that we really cannot affect. However, next month, before we sit again in Strasbourg, the European football championship starts.	concession
Mr President, there is no question in my mind that we all want to see the eradication of hooliganism in football at a European level and globally. However, we must be careful not to do so in a manner that would restrict the enjoyment of the real supporters.	concession
Rather than adopting hundreds of individual exemption decisions, the Commission adopted in 1992 a block exemption regulation granting exemption, with conditions, to agreements between insurance undertakings in four categories: agreements concerning the joint calculation of risk premiums, those concerning standard policy conditions, co-insurance and reinsurance, pooling arrangements and agreements adopting standards for safety equipment. The Council Regulation of 1991 enabling the Commission to adopt an insurance block exemption regulation also authorised the inclusion of two further areas which the Commission, however, decided not to include in its regulation for lack of experience in those areas, namely agreements on claims settlement and agreements on registers of aggravated risk.	concession
The Cologne, Helsinki and Lisbon Councils have all made significant contributions in that regard. However, in all truth it must be said that decisions taken at these summits and any that may be taken at Feira will remain little more than aspirational until the Union has the necessary resources to implement such a policy.	concession
I totally understand that all tobacco products are dangerous to human health and cause different types of cancer and cardiovascular diseases. However, I think that all tobacco products, which may have different levels of harmfulness, should be treated in a way that is compatible with the level of danger they represent to human health.	concession
Madam President, I did not see the incident with regard to the handicapped or disabled people going into the stadium yesterday, or the supposed fracas with the Italian journalists. However, I was in Rotterdam all day yesterday, from early morning until late last night and I was at the final.	concession
The Commission welcomes the signature of the peace accord as an important preliminary step in the long and difficult process of negotiations to end the conflict between Burundi's majority Hutu and minority Tutsi population. However, as has been said in this discussion, some very important questions are still open, such as that of the cease-fire, which is the main gap in the agreement, the amnesty, the composition of the national assembly, the duration of the agreement and the transitory government leadership - no minor issues.	concession
Mr President, I agree with many of the comments that have been made so far by Mrs McKenna and Mrs Maij-Weggen on the situation in Burma. However I would also like to refer to the specific case of a constituent of mine, which provides a good example of the brutality of the present Burmese authorities.	concession
To get to the core of this discussion, the question of an emergency aid budget line, the Commission is considering proposing a legal basis for such a line at the moment. However, the Commission might consider financial support for the restoration of the forestry production potential on the basis of the rural development regulation, No 1257/1999.	concession
This should be sufficient, considering our commitment to establish a rapid alert system covering all the food and feed chain in the new proposal on the food authority. In principle, I am not against Amendments Nos 15, 16, 20 - last paragraph - concerning the change from "decontamination" to "rendering the product harmless" however we will introduce some editorial changes in relation to that.	concession
It started work this year and many had high expectations of it. However, with the advent of Mr Byrne's ambitious proposals, it would seem that this national initiative is to be absorbed into the EU structures.	concession
It is all too easy to get carried away by the obvious need to improve the effectiveness of criminal investigations. However, one aspect of any action with regard to criminal procedures must not be forgotten - the right of defence.	concession
We are sure that there will be an important "reform dividend" as the modernisation measures begin to foster increased efficiency and better management in the use of resources. It is very clear, however, that parts of the Commission services are already very stretched.	concession
We are all fully conscious of the importance of tourism, both to local economies and as a factor of European integration. The problem for some of us, however, is the lack of specification of the extent of the legal base and of just how it would relate to considerations of subsidiarity.	concession
The world is becoming a smaller place in terms of market access and the term "global village" is not out of place. However, the arrival of globalisation will not and must not mean absolute and free market access for all products and services operating at this time.	concession
Who could challenge such an ambition? I have to say, however, that dynamism and entrepreneurship as well as social cohesion are a very ambitious target, not to mention the creative tension between those two objectives.	concession
One of the keys to mobilising this type of risk-taking is to move towards such full employment that people feel they can take that personal risk. However, I would conclude by asking: which is going to come first?	concession
Concerning the duration of the regulation, our position has been to support an unlimited duration subject to periodic revision following evaluations. However we are aware that if unlimited duration were to be approved here, this would lead inevitably to a conciliation process.	concession
It is based on a consensus which has been forged by all the players, including the ports and environmental groups like RSPB and the World Wildlife Fund. However, we share the rapporteur's concern that different charging systems should not lead to greater risk of maritime pollution.	concession
So the Charter must fill in any gaps in existing rights, and it must be binding on the institutions of the European Union. However, it is clear that not all rights will be equal, at least in the way they are implemented.	concession
Incineration is often the most effective and safe method of waste disposal. Sometimes, however, it can release dangerous chemicals, such as dioxins, into the atmosphere.	concession
We can understand that American politicians have little room for manoeuvre. I think, however, that the Commissioner may be about to announce to us that light is dawning and that we can see a way forward that will enable both sides to be satisfied and to allow sensible negotiations to continue for a global solution.	concession
We also totally share the rapporteur's view that the Council common position contains useful improvements to the Commission's proposal. However, on commitology and the financial framework, we also consider that the common position is inadequate and cannot be followed.	concession
In mid-February Chief Inspector Laurence Williams said that he himself would pull the plug on the THORP reprocessing plant if his safety recommendations were not acted on. However, it is clear from his own report that BNFL cannot be trusted.	concession
It is therefore unlikely that harmonising minimum standards at an EU-level would have been able to prevent what happened at Sellafield. There are, however, several activities at Community level where harmonisation would be both beneficial and possible.	concession
It has been work done out of pure curiosity for the sake of knowledge as an end in itself which has, in the end, produced the big spin-offs that make a real difference. I agree with her, however, that it is not enough to justify spending public money on the ground that somebody suffers from acute curiosity.	concession
Mr President, I yield to no one in my desire for peace in Sir Lanka and in my condemnation of all violence. However, I say to Mrs Foster and Mr Heaton-Harris that they want to check their stories and sources because it needs both sides in a conflict to be committed if a lasting solution is to be achieved.	concession
Most Members will find this motion uncontentious. However, I do understand that there are some queries about the question of the suitability of the Charleroi stadium and its ability to safely host the England versus Germany game on 17 June.	concession
I very much hope that Euro 2000 is a great success. However, I hope with equal fervour that the games during Euro 2000 are a great deal better than the one I watched on television last night.	concession
I do not want to come between Parliament and its preprandial democratic duty. However, there are a couple of points I should like to make.	concession
As Parliament knows, the China agreement does not fit any of the categories of Article 300(3) that would justify submission for assent. The agreement will, however, in principle, be submitted for consultation, so the European Parliament will have ample opportunity to express its views on the agreement.	concession
Cases of food poisoning related to beef are rare, and more often than not can be attributed to storage and preparation in the home or catering outlet, rather than to the processors. Occasionally, however, there is a problem such as the E-coli outbreak in Scotland.	concession
I welcome the Commission's assurance that any distortion of trade which might arise as a result of these labelling measures will be dealt with. Labelling, however, needs to be sensible.	concession
Of course the royal families of Europe should be allowed to move about freely. However, I disagree with his priorities.	concession
It is not the big hand of Europe extending control to local planning matters. It does, however, ensure that particularly at our respective borders our planning takes account of the environment quality within and across our borders when planning frameworks are being agreed.	concession
As members will be aware, the UK Government was party to the conclusions of the Tampere European Council. There are, however, various practical points and issues regarding sovereignty which the UK takes very seriously and which means it is not appropriate or possible for the United Kingdom to be included at this time.	concession
There are, however, various practical points and issues regarding sovereignty which the UK takes very seriously and which means it is not appropriate or possible for the United Kingdom to be included at this time. however this does not lessen the commitment of our Government to the principles of the report and the underlying values inherent therein.	concession
I agree with Mrs Wallis that Commissioner Byrne was right to say that he would not accept this, and I hope that Commissioner Vitorino feels the same way, because this would be a disastrous outcome. The committee did, however, agree to take a coherent approach to the law relating to the internet.	concession
This in itself offers a very favourable basis for the gradual development of cooperation between the two regions. I would, however, urge all participants to reach a consensus on incorporating clear commitments in the principal documents in Seoul to respect human rights in the region.	concession
I do not necessarily support this. However, the point remains the same: namely that the European Member State governments, the European Commission and the European Parliament have a serious battle on their hands to persuade the 370 million citizens of the European Union that greater political and economic integration is the way forward for the European Union.	concession
The Commission can accept many of the amendments proposed in the rapporteur's report. However, let me first address the amendments with which the Commission cannot agree.	concession
I can accept the spirit behind all these amendments but in some cases there is a problem with the wording. However, there are a number of other amendments which I cannot accept, either for technical reasons or because their detailed nature runs counter to the purpose of the Framework Directive.	concession
I wholeheartedly welcome these developments. The code, however, is only a political commitment between Member States.	concession
Madam President, let us be clear about one matter: the single greatest challenge facing the Union is the reform of the EU institutions so that the enlargement process can take place. We all know that enlargement of the Union cannot take place until decision-making procedures within the key institutions are reformed; however, such a reform process must be fair and balanced.	concession
In any case the Commission cannot accept an amendment which would prohibit decontamination. However strict quality criteria need to be laid down at Community level for these decontamination procedures.	concession
It is not practicable to collect, incinerate and carry out a full epidemiological investigation on each fallen animal. The Commission will, however, be monitoring the situation closely both through the recently agreed measures on random testing for BSE and in the forthcoming proposal on animal waste.	concession
The Commission will, however, be monitoring the situation closely both through the recently agreed measures on random testing for BSE and in the forthcoming proposal on animal waste. However, I accept Amendment No 52.	concession
So we condemn that hypocrisy and the double standards, especially of the British government and the other largely socialist heads of EU governments and include that of the United States. We should recognise, however, that the democratic process sometimes produces uncomfortable results.	concession
The EU organs and institutions can exercise far too much power to permit them that power without the proper control which a Charter of Rights would imply. There is however one risk.	concession
Kofi Annan is a good and honourable man. However, he should resign in the knowledge that the world is utterly opposed to the disproportionate severity of these sanctions.	concession
Mr President, concerning item 11 of the Minutes on the order of business, we agreed yesterday to have the Bourlanges report on today's agenda. However, it was withdrawn from the Committee on Budgets last night without being discussed or voted on.	concession
There are, of course, cases when state aid can be necessary and legitimate, for example helping companies restructure. In all such cases, however, strict criteria must be met and prior approval from the European Commission gained.	concession
I take some mild encouragement from the fact that levels of state aid to industry in Europe appear to be falling. Much remains to be done, however, and I call on the Commission to be far tougher in exposing the subsidy junkies of Europe.	concession
This suggests to me that we should also look to the shipowners, to the flag state and the inspection authorities to shoulder their share of the responsibility. However, before we rush in with a whole raft of new measures and new regulations, let us look carefully at the existing arrangements to be sure that they are being properly implemented.	concession
You cannot legislate for consumer confidence. It is something that is earned over a period of time. However, the Commission will have the possibility of seeing that the opinions of the Authority on scientific matters are enforced by way of passing legislation which is the function of the Commission, Parliament and Council.	concession
No indications of contamination were found in Kosovo during the BTF fact-finding mission. However, this does not exclude the possibility that areas in Kosovo are contaminated by depleted uranium.	concession
According to the related provisions in the Treaties the responsible legislator for establishing its Rules of Procedure is the Commission itself. However, it goes without saying that the Commission adheres to the principle of regular political dialogue with the European Parliament on all aspects of administrative reform.	concession
I support institutional changes so as to ensure that enlargement of the Union takes place in a streamlined and structured manner. However, we must remember that the public opinion of 370 million people in the European Union is a vital factor in changing the EU treaties.	concession
Progress is slow due to the tense relations between the ethnic groups of this divided city. However, the Commission is maintaining its efforts with the support of UNMIK for this project.	concession
The Commission has no information regarding the impact of the construction of the Ilisu Dam on the population of the region. We will, however, consider raising the matter with the Turkish authorities, together with other issues concerning regional development policies in the framework of the new pre-accession strategy for Turkey.	concession
Mr President, I have had the privilege of hearing the Commissioner a number of times on this issue and I very much agree with his approach. However, I should like to ask a slightly different question.	concession
We have no difficulty with the "polluter pays" principle in relation to the recovery of costs on water usage at industrial, commercial and agricultural level. However, I feel very strongly that as water is life and access to clean drinking water is a basic human right, this directive must allow for a basic domestic water provision free of charge, a quota per household for drinking, cooking and sanitation.	concession
I will give some examples shortly. However, I remind this House that, back in June 1997, a Council resolution acknowledged the fact that there is a serious lack of coherence in some of the EU policies in relation to its development cooperation policy.	concession
It certainly influenced the debate on the moratorium on the death penalty. The debate in Geneva, however, is more focused on human rights issues.	concession
However, it is imperative that the EU speaks and acts as one, and threats of trade sanctions should strengthen rather than weaken our resolve. However, if full expression is to be given to the decisions which may eventually be taken at Geneva, then the office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights must be provided with the necessary resources.	concession
I will take another look at the issue, although I should point out that having two PHARE programmes up and running risks real confusion. I want to stress, however, that whatever the programme is called, our commitment to the integration of FYROM and its neighbours into the European family is stronger than ever.	concession
The package will grant around Euro 15 million in total for the two countries in the current year. It is, however, regrettable that the Commission has eschewed multiannual financing and decided instead to allocate funds on a yearly basis.	concession
There is a degree of independence obviously allocated to the current Financial Controller by the financial regulation. However, because of the mixture of roles of both financial management and control, and audit under the present terms, it is very difficult to think of this as an uncompromised role, no matter how great the integrity of the person actually holding it.	concession
We detest the excess of paper, but given the requirements that we have to check and re-check and double check in order to guarantee effective financial control, sometimes the requirements of administration, which some call bureaucracy, are unavoidable. In order however to strip back those obligations to their minimum, we are not just talking about it; we will be appointing in the very near future a deputy secretary-general, an additional deputy secretary-general with the specific mandate and mission of identifying best practices and spreading them throughout the Commission and of ensuring a radical reduction in the procedures which generate so much paper, so much bureaucracy and I must say so much frustration, not only for the citizens and businesses of the Union but for the people who work for the Commission too.	concession
The Commission would only receive a copy of any such transmissions if it requested one. Since, however, the Community is funding the exercise, it was felt appropriate for it to see a direct return on its investment.	concession
Secondly, in respect to the environmental data, the original proposal speaks only of biological and economic information. The Commission has, however, made it clear that it intends itself to engage in studies and pilot projects of a wider environmental kind.	concession
The Commission proposal aims to ensure a more pragmatic approach towards controlling a disease that has the potential to cause important losses in salmon farms. However, this cannot be allowed to compromise our objective of reducing and possibility eliminating ISA.	concession
It does not replicate at temperatures above 25º centigrade and would, if present in fish for human consumption, be inactivated when ingested. In no way, however, can diseased fish be used for human consumption.	concession
It must be further examined whether and how scientific research in other parts of the Community must be organised. In this context I am happy to partly accept Amendment No 1, taking into account, however, that scientific investigations are not done by the Commission but that the Commission relies on results of investigations carried out in the Member States.	concession
It talks about vegetable waste and vegetable waste does not cover dead animals. However, I will get clarification from the Commissioner personally.	concession
The Gothenburg Protocol is a step forward. However, it is nowhere near enough.	concession
I agree with Mr Martínez when he stressed the importance of providing adequate protection and support for victims. However we must also take action to ensure that there are fewer victims in the future.	concession
They must be built upon and the establishment of the International Criminal Court was a significant development in the field of human rights. However, it will symbolise little more than a statement of platitudes and empty rhetoric unless its Statute comes into force.	concession
The principles of cohesion and the drive to limit poverty and depravity in our communities are a well-settled concept in the European Union. However, it must encompass respect for minorities everywhere if it to inspire the world in its drive towards defeating racism and defending human rights.	concession
Since 1992, the Euro-Flower logo has become a hallmark of environmentally-friendly products, ranging from washing machines to writing paper. However, consumers' enthusiasm for green goods has yet to be matched by industry.	concession
however, consumers' enthusiasm for green goods has yet to be matched by industry. The measures contained in this 3-year strategy, however, should hopefully bring manufacturers on board.	concession
In relation to paragraph 52 I support the right of individual conscience. In stating this principle I would also like to make it absolutely clear that this in no way implies that I personally support abortion. With regard to paragraphs 53, 54 and 56 I oppose discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation. I would, however, add a few caveats.	concession
A consultation took place between the Commission and the Member States, concluding that the situation does not justify the organisation and deployment of a full EU observation mission. Some Member States announced, however, that they would be sending observers on a bilateral basis including, in some cases, representatives of their national parliaments.	concession
Some oppositions to this patent have already been filed. However, if the European Patent Office follows its usual rules for oppositions then this is unlikely to bring any changes to this patent before December 2000 and perhaps even later than that.	concession
We certainly have taken due cognisance of the wishes expressed by this Parliament, and we have done our best to integrate them in the proposals that are now in front of you, as noted by Mr Huhne. May I, however, express the Commission's disappointment that Mrs Kauppi's initial report could not be accepted.	concession
In these changes we gave every Member the right to table an amendment as an individual at committee stage, but we limited the right to table amendments in plenary to 32 Members or a political group. However, if you look at the amendments that have been tabled on Thursday, for instance to the Dimitrakopoulos-Leinen report, you will see that there are over 100 amendments which are tabled by individuals, supposedly in the name of their political group, but this may well not be the case.	concession
It makes no sense in the context of the postponement report, and it is totally nonsensical and hysterical in tone. We are delighted that there was an almost unanimous consensus, however, on the new practical approach to the general discharge.	concession
In his question the honourable Member is probably referring to actions 57 and 58 of the Reform Strategy Action Plan which, amongst other things, specifies commitment to making proposals for the establishment of an interinstitutional disciplinary board. The Action Plan does not, however, specify that an external legal expert should sit on the board.	concession
They constitute a balanced approach between a total prevention and a permissive approach. However, the wording should be aligned with the text of the directive.	concession
Amendment No 6, concerning a centralised Community procedure, is not acceptable. However, I should like to stress that careful evaluation of a centralised procedure would be done in the Commission report required under Article 30 of the directive.	concession
Access to the work of the European Group on Ethics and their opinions is an important of the general evaluation. The Commission is, however, of the opinion that this is already appropriately covered in the Rules of Procedure of the Committee.	concession
I know that reform within the existing European institutions must take place. However, any changes within the internal decision-making procedures must be balanced and fair.	concession
The EPLP delegation voted in favour of the compromise resolution on additionality because we believe that the principle of additionality is one of the core fundamental pillars of the structural funds reforms, for which I was Parliament's rapporteur. However, I believe that parts of this resolution, rather than bringing clarity to the rules, will only serve to confuse the general public and in particular funding operators.	concession
The argument has been made that this issue should instead be covered by horizontal legislation. It is worth noting, however, that we have heard this argument since discussions about Directive 90/220/EEC first started in 1989.	concession
In addition, it will be capable of improving citizens' quality of life and the environment. However, it is equally true that without active intervention this shift will widen the gap between the haves and have-nots.	concession
If so, I am sure that I can attribute the better parts to my friend and colleague Mr Dimitrakopoulos and the more unusual parts to Mr Leinen. However, the majority of my Conservative colleagues have voted to reject the report and will vote accordingly in this House.	concession
Of course we must do everything in our power to alleviate famine. However, where countries are at war, all our aid must be humanitarian and channelled through NGO organisations to ensure that aid goes to the starving people and not to the war front.	concession
Madam President, coming back to a point that was raised earlier on: 9 May is, as you know, Europe Day and Parliament will be closed. There is, however, a meeting of the Committee on Legal Affairs and the Internal Market being held on that day.	concession
There were not a great many surprises in it and, to some extent, I welcome that. A question remains, however, in relation to redeployment in Category 4.	concession
I fully accept that there are challenges which need to be addressed such as problems with congestion, in particular air traffic control. However, I believe that the Commission has a responsibility to put forward more balanced views which do not undermine the value and success of an industry which has made an enormous contribution, not only to the countries of the European Union but worldwide.	concession
The honourable Member is, I know, very clear about the fact that responsibility for employment policies and patterns in the Commission, as a separate institution, lies with the Commission itself. However, in order to provide useful information to this House and to the wider public, I am glad to respond to the two questions which the honourable Member has put down.	concession
The Commission has rejected the concept of quotas because of its counter-productive rigidity, and also because it would breach Staff Regulations. It has, however, adopted a decision to ensure that all Member State nationalities should be represented by at least 1 qualified person in the most senior post, Director-General or equivalent, and consistent with that, the Commission has given fresh emphasis to assess effectively proven merit as a prerequisite of highest positions.	concession
Now to the amendments: the Commission broadly agrees with the four amendments which have been tabled by the Parliament. However, concerning the first amendment I would like to stress again that the draft of the activity report has already been made available to the Committee on Development and Cooperation and that official submission will take place next June at the latest.	concession
A number of honourable Members have argued that you should see that by July. We believe however, that given the late contracting of the 1999 programme, which means that some activities are only now getting under way, it would be better to finalise the report, which must be a thorough and comprehensive document, a month or two later, say by September.	concession
That will give us a reasonable period to evaluate 1999's activities. However, as you know, the evaluation is already under way and I will make any interim reports available as soon as they are produced.	concession
The British newspapers will be full of GBP 1m per MEP - that is what they cost! however, we are trying to reduce those costs, especially on buildings.	concession
With regard to the recitals, I also accept Amendments Nos 3, 4 and 5. However, I cannot accept Amendments Nos 1 and 2 because it is inappropriate to introduce recitals in a piece of legislation which are not matched by substantive provisions in the text.	concession
The Commission will, however, be monitoring the situation closely both through the recently agreed measures on random testing for BSE and in the forthcoming proposal on animal waste. However, I accept Amendment No 52.	concession
I partly accept Amendment No 19 to Article 8, requesting a review of the age limits for SRM removal under a commitology procedure. I cannot, however, accept the restraint of annual reviews and, in particular, the proposed deadline for the first review which is foreseen for 1 January next, which is too soon.	concession
I will not pretend to be happy with this situation. It is, however, the best that we could achieve if we were to end once and for all the Council's delaying tactics.	concession
As part of the Community's acquis it then would have been routinely screened together with other EU legislation. However, it is difficult to say if such a directive would be developed quickly enough to play a key role in the ongoing discussions with the accession states.	concession
I am convinced that more could be done at Community level to achieve this. However, it is not clear that a directive requiring the harmonisation of safety standards at a European level at this moment in history is the best way forward.	concession
Jacques Delors spelt it out in his White Paper, so we do not need to reinvent his thoughts. However, the big difference between us and the successful economies of the world - the US in particular - is that they spend far more money on investment in science, and it pays off.	concession
Commissioner Busquin's communication on the European research area is very good. However, what is important is the next stage: transferring that knowledge into goods and products and processes which can be sold.	concession
It is regrettable that there have been administrative delays in producing all the language versions. However, I feel that there is a touch of opportunism in the PPE Group's objections to a vote this week.	concession
I obviously agree with the rapporteur that competition rules must be applied rigorously in order to prevent cross-subsidies that go against the purpose of the aid. However, in the sphere of public broadcasting it is essential to remember that, in accordance with the Amsterdam Protocol, in the system of public broadcasting in Member States, it is up to each Member State to specify the financial and organisational structure of public service broadcasting.	concession
This has, as I said, been a difficult report; it has been fraught and often very tense in committee and, more specifically, at the committee votes. However, I believe the final outcome will work and is a practical and correct approach.	concession
Mr President, when one hears of the horrendous debt that has built up in many African states, the first reaction is one of deep sympathy. However, I have had the privilege of visiting many of these countries in the past year and I have to say that, in many cases, one's sympathy turns to anger when one sees the abject poverty that people in these countries live in while their leaders and ministers revel in wealth and prosperity and one begins to question the distribution of aid and debt relief.	concession
In the open, multipolar world where Eurocentrism is no more, Europe can be one of the standard-bearers of civilised development only if it is internally globalised, only if all of its parts are integrated within it, and if no one is excluded from the common future or marginalised. In the ruins of the Berlin Wall, however, traces of new divisions are appearing in Europe.	concession
I am also happy to note, as Mr Busk confirmed, that Denmark as a Member State principally concerned with sand eel fishery has accepted these measures. However, while these measures will hopefully contribute to improving the state of fishery resources, I am concerned that the Commission has not got it right in certain other areas: for example, in the recent report on the implementation of MAGPs and the drastic cuts that it calls for in some fleets which is of grave concern to Scots and other fishermen.	concession
A total of 48 amendments have been proposed in this report. Of these, I am pleased to inform you, the Commission can accept 38, either totally or partially. It cannot, however, accept Amendments Nos 9, 17, 20, 21, 34, 36, 37, 40, 42 or 46.	concession
Of these the Commission can accept a further 34 - either totally or in part. However, the Commission considers that Amendment Nos 49 and 50, 52, 54, 56, 59 to 61, 64, 65, 68 to 73, 77, 79, 80, 82 to 85, 89, 93, 94, 96, 99, 101, 104 to 106, 110 to 112, 114 and 117 are not compatible with the proposal's scope, intention and legal basis and should not be accepted.	concession
The Erika is a good example of that. However, a rapid, efficient, adequate and effective response coordinated across national boundaries is needed to mitigate the impacts on the environment and public health in the case of pollution incidents.	concession
This we have announced and we are in the process of identifying more relevant activities than those that have been carried out so far by ECHO. However, this year we are taking care to create some bridging financing in order to facilitate a gradual shift from one activity to another.	concession
I certainly accept that there is a place for social policy in these more extreme situations. However, there is a risk of taking it too far.	concession
That is very important. I should like to underline, however, that although this is an issue about the spirits industry in the Community as a whole, the fact is, as we all know, that by far the major exporter is the Scotch whisky industry.	concession
This document presented a 14-point action plan and at the same time encouraged the Council to adopt a common position on a European armaments policy. However, we have not so far been able to make as much progress in implementing this strategy as we had hoped.	concession
