Written question asked by Peter L Pike (Labour) on Wednesday, 30 April 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 12 May 2003. It was answered by Mike O'Brien (Labour) on Monday, 12 May 2003 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Foreign and Commonwealth Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what recent discussions he has had with his Spanish counterpart on combating South American international crime, particularly within the EU; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Mr. Pike: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent discussions he has had with his Spanish counterpart on combating South American international crime, particularly within the EU; and if he will make a statement. [111564] Mr. Mike O'Brien: We are in regular touch with Spain and other EU partners to co-ordinate efforts on combating international crime from South America, and in particular on the threat from Class A drugs. UK officials play an active role in developing implementation strategies for the EU's Action Plan on drugs. We are also active in the Technical Committee of the EU-Latin American-Caribbean Drugs Co-ordination and Co- operation Mechanism, which is engaged in strengthening inter-regional ties. HM Customs and Excise work closely on joint investigations and operations with their Spanish counterparts, and regularly share intelligence through NCIS.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 111564; 405 c76W
Session: 2002-03
Subjects: Crime EU countries Drugs International cooperation EU action Organised crime Misuse Spain South America
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk