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To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what the volume is of unspent oil revenues allocated for Iraqi Kurdistan in the escrow account of the UN oil-for-food programmes; and what the reasons are for withholding aid to Iraqi Kurdistan. - Includes figures. (Holding answer 16 December...
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what the volume is of unspent oil revenues allocated for Iraqi Kurdistan in the escrow account of the UN oil-for-food programmes; and what the reasons are for withholding aid to Iraqi Kurdistan. - Includes figures. (Holding answer 16 December...
Asked by
Caroline Spelman
(Conservative)
Answered by
Mike O'Brien
(Labour)
Answering body
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
10 December 2002
For answer on
19 December 2002
Answered on
19 December 2002
Mrs. Spelman: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what the volume is of unspent oil revenues
allocated for Iraqi Kurdistan in the escrow account of the UN oil-for-food programmes; and what the reasons are for withholding aid
to Iraqi Kurdistan. [87078]
Mr. Mike O'Brien: [holding answer of 16 December 2002]: As of 11 December US$3.3 billion of `Oil For Food' revenue remained
unallocated by Iraq in the UN escrow account. US$1.2billion of the revenue allocated to the UN humanitarian programme in northern
Iraq is currently unspent.
The Iraqi regime has consistently obstructed improvements in northern Iraq, delaying the arrival of de-mining equipment that could
save lives and denying visas to UN personnel involved in essential humanitarian projects. It has also restricted the distribution of
food and medicines to northern Iraq.
Subjects
International assistance; Humanitarian aid; Iraq; Food; Oil; Sanctions; Kurds
Date
19 December 2002
Reference
396 c947W;396 c945W; 87078
House
House of Commons
Lords statement on what recent changes have been made to (a) the United Nations sanctions against Angola (UNITA) and Sierra Leone; and (b) the European Union sanctions against the Democratic Republics of Congo and Burma. [HL 779].
Lords statement on what recent changes have been made to (a) the United Nations sanctions against Angola (UNITA) and Sierra Leone; and (b) the European Union sanctions against the Democratic Republics of Congo and Burma. [HL 779].
Asked by
Baroness Ramsay of Cartvale
(Labour)
Answered by
Baroness Amos
(Labour)
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
For answer on
19 December 2002
Answered on
19 December 2002
Subjects
Sanctions; Sierra Leone; Myanmar; Democratic Republic of the Congo; Angola
Date
19 December 2002
Reference
HL 779; 642 c142-3WA
House
House of Lords
Written statement on recent changes to sanctions regimes.
Written statement on recent changes to sanctions regimes.
Member
Bill Rammell
(Labour)
Department
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Type
Written statements
Subjects
Sanctions; Sierra Leone; Myanmar; Democratic Republic of the Congo; Angola
Date
17 December 2002
Reference
396 c43WS;396 c43-4WS
House
House of Commons
Statement on what the outcome was of the General Affairs Council held on 9th December; what the Government's stance was on the issues discussed, including its voting record; and if he will make a statement.
Statement on what the outcome was of the General Affairs Council held on 9th December; what the Government's stance was on the issues discussed, including its voting record; and if he will make a statement.
Asked by
Jim Hood
(Labour)
Answered by
Denis MacShane
(Labour)
Answering body
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
9 December 2002
For answer on
17 December 2002
Answered on
17 December 2002
Mr. Hood: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what the outcome was of the General Affairs Council
held on 9th December; what the Government's stance was on the issues discussed, including its voting record; and if he will make a
statement. [86925]
Mr. MacShane: My right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary and I represented the UK at the General Affairs and External Relations
Council in Brussels on December 9 and 10. Conclusions were agreed by consensus and no formal votes were taken.
General Affairs Session
Progress of work in other Council Configurations
The Council took stock of proceedings in other Council settings on the basis of the customary Presidency report. Regarding Justice
and Home Affairs, particular attention was drawn to the Council's approval on 28 and 29 November of four negotiating mandates on
readmission agreements with Albania, Algeria, China and Turkey and the EU Plan for Return to Afghanistan. The ECOFIN Council's
approval of the 2003 draft budget was also highlighted.
Preparation for the European Council in Copenhagen
Enlargement
The Council discussed the way forward for concluding accession negotiations with the candidate countries at the Copenhagen European
Council on 12 and 13 December. The Presidency presented the results of informal consultations with the candidate countries, which,
aided by the Commission, had led to `packages' being put together for each country. The Council decided that negotiating issues
concerning the global amount (including the financial consequences of the agricultural quota proposals) as well as the question of
direct income support in agriculture, be submitted to the European Council in Copenhagen, with a view to finalising the Union
position. Solutions proposed by the Presidency on all other matters were accepted by the Council. Member states considered the
Presidency's offer extremely generous and noted that the Council could go no further.
Use of languages in an enlarged Union
The Council noted a Presidency report on the use of languages in the Council, in the context of an enlarged Union. The Council
agreed that the report would be forwarded to the European Council in Copenhagen and that work would continue on the basis of the
conclusions set out by the Presidency in the report.
Annotated draft agenda of the European Council
The European Council will focus on two items: enlargement (the completion of the first stage of the enlargement process and the
conclusion of negotiations with ten candidate countries; the adoption of an enhanced accession strategy for Bulgaria and Romania
including revised roadmaps and increased pre-accession assistance; and the next steps concerning Turkey's candidature); and the
functioning of the Council in view of enlargement (with a discussion on the initial report by the Danish Presidency on the
Presidency of the Council).
Kaliningrad
The Council adopted conclusions on Kaliningrad, as a follow-up to the EU/ Russia Summit of 11 November 2002. The Council reiterated
its commitment to adopting necessary steps to implement the new arrangement on the Facilitated Transit Document (FTD) and the
Facilitated Rail Transit Document (FRTD) before the signature of the Accession Treaty. This will be decided and developed in close
consultation with Lithuania. The EU stands ready to provide financial assistance to Lithuania to cover additional costs of
implementing the measures.
Turkey
Ministers discussed the next steps of Turkey's candidature for membership over dinner, noting the new government's orientation and
reform agenda, taking into account the Copenhagen criteria. Annual operational programme of Council activities
The Council discussed its draft operation programme for 2003, submitted jointly by the forthcoming Greek and Italian presidencies
and contributed to by the Commission and European Parliament. The programme comes as a result of measures decided at the Seville
European Council to improving the efficient functioning of the Council. Member states broadly welcomed the new initiative which
identifies the following priority areas: enlargement and reform; reinvigorating Europe's economy; social cohesion while promoting
sustainable development; and developing the European areas of freedom, security and justice.
Inter-Institutional Agreement on better regulation
The Council noted the Presidency's report on the state of negotiations between the Council, Commission and European Parliament, on
an Inter-Institutional Agreement to improve the quality of Community legislation. (Issues addressed include improved co- ordination
of the legislative processes, better programming regarding co-decision, greater transparency and publicity of work and the
exploration of alternative instruments such as co-regulation and self-regulation by economic operators, social partners, NGOs and
European associations.)
So far, a broad common approach on the main parts of the Agreement has emerged. Work will continue at a technical level on other
areas. The Greek presidency has been tasked with pursuing negotiations with a view to concluding the Agreement as soon as possible.
External Relations Session
Middle East
SG/HR Solana and Commissioner Patten briefed the Council on the current Middle East situation in advance of ministerial discussion
at both the Copenhagen European Council and the `Quartet' meeting in Washington on 20 December.
Western Balkans
Federal Republic of Yugoslavia
The Council welcomed recent progress on the draft Constitutional Charter and looked forward to early parliamentary approval. It
registered concern at the outcome of the Serbian Presidential elections on 8 December and requested that the matter be resolved by
all parties, constitutionally, transparently and democratically, safeguarding institutional stability and continued reform.
FRY/Kosovo
The Council welcomed the extension of UNMIK's direct administrative authority to Northern Mitrovica and commended the UN's Special
Representative, Michael Steiner, and the Belgrade authorities for their efforts in achieving this encouraging result.
Arms sales
The Council reiterated its grave concern regarding arms sales that breached UN sanctions. It requested speedy and effective
investigation into these matters and that responsible parties be brought to account. The Council reaffirmed the crucial importance
it attaches to maintaining civilian control of military operations and urged all countries concerned to implement decisive legal and
administrative measures to this effect.
London conference on organised crime
The Council welcomed the successful conference of 25 November, fully supported the priority actions identified by the conference and
called for urgent implementation of the commitments subscribed to. The Council will draw on the Stabilisation and Association
Process review mechanism and a wide range of regional initiatives to follow up on its commitments.
Afghanistan
Following discussion and briefing on the Petersberg conference, the Council adopted conclusions. These reiterated the Council's
strong commitment to contributing to the full implementation of the Bonn Agreement and outlined existing challenges. Security
continues to be a priority concern; the Council commended the `Decree on the National Army' issued by the Afghan Transitional
Authority (ATA). It also welcomed the declaration `Rebuilding Peace in Afghanistan' adopted at the Petersberg conference on 2
December, and reiterated the importance of democratic values, pluralism and respect for human rights. It restated its commitment to
working with other international bodies to eliminate the opium trade.
Migration and development
Commissioner Patten presented the Commission's communication on integrating migration issues in the EU's external relations
policies, as a follow-up to the Seville European Council decisions. The Communication consists of an analysis of migration and
development issues generally, and a report on the effectiveness of financial resources available at Community level. The Commission
proposed that migration issues should be more adequately integrated into existing external relations policy and that supplementary
financial effort should be made to accommodate this. COREPER has been tasked to examine the Communication and prepare a substantive
debate for the Council early next year.
EU/ Africa relations
Ministers discussed EU/ Africa relations and, in particular, preparations for the next EU/Africa Summit due to take place in Spring
2003, over dinner. The troika will visit Africa to discuss further.
Cyprus
Ministers assessed the current state of play in negotiations on the UN Secretary General's settlement plan for Cyprus.
ESDP
The Council discussed EU/Nato relations and mandated SG/HR Solana to forward to NATO the text on the implementation of the Nice
provisions, agreed at the Brussels European Council on 24 and 25 October. The Council also noted a draft Presidency report.
Greenland: fisheries
The Council heard a Commission presentation on the mid-term review of the fisheries protocol between the EU and Greenland. The
Council noted that a decision on the proposals to adjust the protocol in the short term and to secure political commitment between
the EU, Greenland and Denmark must be reached by the end of February 2003.
AOB: WHO
The Belgian delegation informed the Council of Dr. Peter Piot's (current Executive Director of UN AIDS programme) candidature for
the position of Director General of the World Health Organisation.
Items approved without debate
EUPM
The Council noted that in less than a month the EU Police Mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina will undertake its first crisis
management operation under ESDP and welcomed the double-hatting of the High Representative as EU Special Representative and his role
in the EUPM chain of command. The UN Security Council has welcomed EUPM's succession to the UN's International Police Task Force in
Bosnia and Herzegovina.
European Union Special Representatives
The Council extended the mandates of the five existing special representatives in the Middle East, African Great Lakes, Former
Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Afghanistan and Stability Pact for South Eastern Europe, until June 2003.
Cuba: 12th evaluation of common position
The Council acknowledged the continuation of an open and constructive dialogue with Cuba on all issues of common interest. The
Council noted that the Cuban Government had made no significant steps towards meeting the aims of the Common Position since the
previous evaluation. EU policy objectives toward Cuba will remain encouraging Cuba's transition to a pluralistic and democratic
system, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, lasting economic recovery and an improvement in the living standards of
the population. The Council also strongly urged the Cuban Government to ratify the UN Covenants on Political and Civil Rights, and
those on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.
Colombia
The Council welcomed President Uribe's efforts to reform his country's institutions and to develop a fully functioning democratic
state throughout Colombia, based on respect for human rights and the welfare and safety of all its citizens. The Council reiterated
its support for seeking a negotiated solution to the conflict in Colombia and expressed the EU's readiness to assist in these areas.
It expressed deep concern at the deterioration of human rights in the country and urged the Colombian Government to take effective
action against impunity and collusion.
Restrictive measures against Somalia
The Council adopted a Common Position concerning restrictive measures against Somalia, prohibiting the sale or supply of arms and
related material to Somalia by the member states. Technical, financial or other advice related to military activity is also
prohibited. Mano River Union Region
The Council noted that despite significant recent progress towards peace, democracy and reconciliation in Sierra Leone, instability
in the sub-region is still of grave concern. The current situation in Liberia threatens the stability of the sub-region.
The Council welcomes the regional peace process within the Mano River Union framework, facilitated by Morocco, but regrets that
progress achieved so far is limited. The Council also welcomes the strengthening of the EU's political dialogue with the countries
of the Mano River Union, through the appointment of its Special Representative in 2001. The EU is one of the key development
partners for the region. Its main objective in the region is to contribute strategically to peace, security and stability as
preconditions for sustainable development.
Ukraine--common strategy
The Council approved a report on the implementation of the Common Strategy on Ukraine, adopted in December 1999. The report
addresses the main objectives of the EU's policy toward Ukraine as set out in the Common Strategy.
European Union's activities in the Fight against terrorism
The Council took stock of a Presidency report on the EU's anti-terrorism activities and directed its competent bodies to bring
forward work on the report's recommendations. The main areas covered include: enhancing justice, security and protection of EU
citizens; the fight against the financing of terrorism; and the EU's external action in the fight against terrorism.
EU-Canada Summit
The Council took stock of preparations for the Summit to be held on 19 December, in Ottawa.
Subjects
Bulgaria; Arms trade; Cyprus; Africa; Fisheries; EU law; EU enlargement; Languages; EU action; EU common foreign and security policy; Organised crime; EU external relations; EU defence policy; Colombia; Cuba; Somalia; Middle East; Ukraine; Migration; Terrorism; Romania; UN resolutions; Sanctions; Balkans; Afghanistan; Russia; Turkey; EU General Affairs and External Relations Council; Greenland; West Africa
Date
17 December 2002
Reference
396 c756-61W; 86925
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what the total volume is of unspent oil revenues in the escrow account of the UN oil-for-food programme. - Figure given.
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what the total volume is of unspent oil revenues in the escrow account of the UN oil-for-food programme. - Figure given.
Asked by
Caroline Spelman
(Conservative)
Answered by
Mike O'Brien
(Labour)
Answering body
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
10 December 2002
For answer on
16 December 2002
Answered on
16 December 2002
Subjects
International assistance; Humanitarian aid; Iraq; Food; Oil; UN resolutions; Sanctions; Foreign trade
Date
16 December 2002
Reference
87077; 396 c553W
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what actions the Government is taking to enable the unspent oil revenues allocated for Iraqi Kurdistan in the escrow account of the UN oil-for food programme to be disbursed; and when she last discussed the volume of unspent oil...
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what actions the Government is taking to enable the unspent oil revenues allocated for Iraqi Kurdistan in the escrow account of the UN oil-for food programme to be disbursed; and when she last discussed the volume of unspent oil...
Asked by
Caroline Spelman
(Conservative)
Answered by
Mike O'Brien
(Labour)
Answering body
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
10 December 2002
For answer on
16 December 2002
Answered on
16 December 2002
Subjects
International assistance; Humanitarian aid; Iraq; Food; Oil; United Nations; UN resolutions; Sanctions; Foreign trade; Kurds
Date
16 December 2002
Reference
396 c553W; 87080
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what proportion of the oil revenues allocated for (a) Iraq and (b) Iraqi Kurdistan are allocated to (i) the UN Compensation Fund and (ii) UN administrative expenses. - Includes figures.
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what proportion of the oil revenues allocated for (a) Iraq and (b) Iraqi Kurdistan are allocated to (i) the UN Compensation Fund and (ii) UN administrative expenses. - Includes figures.
Asked by
Caroline Spelman
(Conservative)
Answered by
Mike O'Brien
(Labour)
Answering body
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
10 December 2002
For answer on
16 December 2002
Answered on
16 December 2002
Subjects
International assistance; Humanitarian aid; Iraq; Food; Oil; United Nations; UN resolutions; Sanctions; Foreign trade; Kurds
Date
16 December 2002
Reference
396 c553W; 87079
House
House of Commons
What sanctions exist if European Union member states refuse or fail to pay fines levied under Articles 226-229 of the treaty establishing the European Community. [HL 329].
What sanctions exist if European Union member states refuse or fail to pay fines levied under Articles 226-229 of the treaty establishing the European Community. [HL 329].
Asked by
Lord Pearson of Rannoch
(Conservative)
Answered by
Baroness Amos
(Labour)
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
For answer on
11 December 2002
Answered on
11 December 2002
Subjects
EU countries; Fines; Judgements; Non-payment; Sanctions; European Court of Justice; Unpaid fines
Date
11 December 2002
Reference
HL 329; 642 c27WA
House
House of Lords
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what assessment he has made of the compliance of the Guinean government with the UN arms embargo on Liberia.
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what assessment he has made of the compliance of the Guinean government with the UN arms embargo on Liberia.
Asked by
John Barrett
(Liberal Democrat)
Answered by
Bill Rammell
(Labour)
Answering body
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
28 November 2002
For answer on
5 December 2002
Answered on
5 December 2002
John Barrett: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment he has made of the compliance of
the Guinean Government with the UN arms embargo on Liberia. [84986]
Mr. Rammell: Guinea has supported maintenance of the arms embargo on Liberia, including as a member of the Security Council.
President Charles Taylor of Liberia alleges that Guinea is supplying the Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy (LURD) in
breach of the arms embargo. The UN Security Council reaffirmed in a statement on 26 November, that the arms embargo applies to any
recipient in Liberia, including non-state actors.
The UN Panel of Experts Report on Liberia of 7 October 2002 states that ammunition captured from LURD rebels in Liberia had been
part of a shipment from the United Arab Emirates to Guinea. This shipment was reported to have been destroyed by fire. It is unclear
how the ammunition could have come into the possession of the LURD.
We call on all countries, without exception, to respect the arms embargo on Liberia.
Subjects
Arms trade; UN resolutions; Sanctions; Liberia; Guinea
Date
5 December 2002
Reference
84986; 395 c961W;395 c959W
House
House of Commons
What progress has been made in identifying, locating and freezing the assets of leading members of Mr Mugabe's regime. [HL 170]. - Includes figures.
What progress has been made in identifying, locating and freezing the assets of leading members of Mr Mugabe's regime. [HL 170]. - Includes figures.
Asked by
Lord Watson of Richmond
(Liberal Democrat)
Answered by
Baroness Amos
(Labour)
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
For answer on
4 December 2002
Answered on
4 December 2002
Subjects
EU action; Sequestration of assets; Sanctions; Zimbabwe; Freezing of assets
Date
4 December 2002
Reference
HL 170; 641 c107WA
House
House of Lords
Lords debate on unstarred question on recent developments in Burma (Myanmar).
Lords debate on unstarred question on recent developments in Burma (Myanmar).
Lead member
Baroness Cox
Answering member
Baroness Crawley
Department
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Type
Questions for short debate
Subjects
Children; Abuse; Armed forces; Armed conflict; Construction; Civilians; Arms trade; Human rights; Ethnic groups; Forced labour; Floods; Landmines; Abduction; Politics and government; Minority groups; Political prisoners; Sexual offences; Sanctions; Myanmar; Dams
Date
3 December 2002
Reference
641 c1112-32
Chamber / Committee
House of Lords chamber
House
House of Lords
To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what plans he has to review the ban on the use of vehicles which use LPG fuel from the Channel Tunnel.
To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what plans he has to review the ban on the use of vehicles which use LPG fuel from the Channel Tunnel.
Asked by
David Stewart
(Labour)
Answered by
David Jamieson
(Labour)
Answering body
Department for Transport
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
21 November 2002
For answer on
2 December 2002
Answered on
2 December 2002
Mr. David Stewart: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has to review the ban on the use of vehicles which use
LPG fuel from the Channel Tunnel. [83519]
Mr. Jamieson: Eurotunnel's original applications for operating certificates excluded the carriage of LPG and dual-fuelled vehicles.
It is for the company to come forward with proposals to extend the range of its services to include these vehicles; Eurotunnel has
been keeping its policy under review. If the company does seek to extend the scope of its services to include these vehicles, it
will first need the agreement of the Channel Tunnel Intergovernmental Commission, acting on the advice of the independent binational
Channel Tunnel Safety Authority, to its proposals.
Subjects
Channel tunnel; Fuels; Motor vehicles; Liquefied petroleum gas; Sanctions
Date
2 December 2002
Reference
83519; 395 c497W
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what the outcome was of the General Affairs Council held on 18th to 19th November; what the Government's stance was on the issues discussed, including its voting record; and if he will make a statement.
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what the outcome was of the General Affairs Council held on 18th to 19th November; what the Government's stance was on the issues discussed, including its voting record; and if he will make a statement.
Asked by
Jim Hood
(Labour)
Answered by
Denis MacShane
(Labour)
Answering body
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
20 November 2002
For answer on
26 November 2002
Answered on
26 November 2002
Mr. Hood: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what the outcome was of the General Affairs Council
held on 18 to 19 November; what the Government's stance was on the issues discussed, including its voting record; and if he will
make a statement. [83152]
Mr. MacShane: My right hon. Friends the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, the Secretary of State for International
Development, the Secretary of State for Defence and I represented the UK at the General Affairs and External Relations Council in
Brussels on 18 and 19 November 2002. Conclusions were agreed by consensus and no formal votes were taken.
General Affairs Session
Progress of work in other Council formations
The Council took stock of the Presidency report on the work of other Council configurations (doc. 14057/ 02), noting decisions
reached at the ECOFIN meeting of 5 November on modifications to the EIB's statute and the increase to the ECB's capital and foreign
exchange reserves, in the context of enlargement.
Preparation of the European Council in Copenhagen
The Council endorsed the draft annotated agenda (doc. 14257/02) for the European Council, which lists two items only: enlargement
and the functioning of the Council in view of enlargement. The European Council will also be updated on the work of the Convention
by the Presidency of the Convention and will have its customary meeting with the Presidency of the Parliament.
The European Council is expected to take all necessary decisions to conclude all negotiations with the 10 candidate countries as
identified at the Brussels European Council in October.
Enlargement
The Council discussed the way ahead with a view to concluding accession negotiations with 10 of the acceding countries in time for
the Copenhagen European Council on 12 and 13 December 2002. The Council decided that their accession would take place on 1 May 2004,
allowing acceding countries to participate in European Parliament elections of 2004. The Commissioners from the new Member States
will join the Commission upon accession and will fully participate in the forthcoming Inter-governmental Conference, while
candidates that are still negotiating will participate as observers.
Reform of the Council Presidency
The Council held a broad debate on reform of the Council Presidency, in advance of a report by the Presidency to be given to the
European Council. While some Member States indicated a preference for maintaining the features of the present rotating Presidency
and extending co-operation between successive presidencies, others underlined that it would be necessary to consider measures going
beyond that.
The Presidency also proposed that the role of the High Representative should be strengthened to help overcome Presidency weaknesses
in the area of external relations. Proposals include chairing specific Council meetings, representing the Union in international
organisations or in meetings with third countires, negotiating international agreements in the areas of CFSP/ ESDP and supervising
EU special envoys.
Commission's legislative and work programme
The Council took note of a presentation by the Commission on its legislative and work programme for the year 2003, following the
Annual Policy Strategy presentation in February 2002.
The Commission's work programme is built around three priorities: making enlargement a success; security and stability (fight
against terrorism, immigration policy, the new neighbours initiative); and a sustainable and inclusive economy.
Terrorism: follow-up to the Action Plan
The Council took note of the roadmap, outlining progress made in the fields identified by the Action Plan on the fight against
terrorism, (doc. 13909/02)
External Relations Session
Middle East
Ministers discussed the situation in the Middle East, international efforts and work on the road map. Concern was expressed at the
continued violence and further development of settlements.
Iraq
The Council welcomed the unanimous adoption of the UN Security Council resolution 1441 on 8 November 2002, which paves the way for
weapons inspectors to return to Iraq. The EU's objective on Iraq is clear: disarmament of Iraq's weapons of mass destruction, in
accordance with UN Security Council Resolutions. The EU will whole-heartedly support the UN on this.
Cyprus
The Council noted the UN Secretary General's presentation on a plan for settlement, regarding the initiative as timely. The Council
expressed the hope that the UNSG's proposals would form the basis for a negotiated agreement. The Presidency reiterated its desire
to see negotiations reach a conclusion prior to the Copenhagen European Council in December, to allow a re-united island to be
welcomed into the EU. Belarus
The Council re-examined the situation in Belarus, following its 21 October declaration expressing concern. It urged the authorities
to avoid disruption of the activities of the OSCE Advisor and Monitoring Group (AMG) in Minsk. The Council noted that most Member
States planned to implement measures to prevent entry to their territories by the President of Belarus, the Head of Presidential
Administration, the Prime Minister, four government ministers, and the Chairman of the Committee of State Security.
Korean Peninsula
The Council reiterated its grave concern at the North Korean revelations concerning a uranium enrichment programme for nuclear
weapons. It expressed deep concern that such a programme violated North Korea's international obligations via the Non-Proliferation
Treaty, the IAEA safeguard agreement, the North- South Joint Declaration on Denuclearization and the Agreed Framework. The Council
urged North Korea to immediately dismantle its programme in a verifiable manner and comply fully with its international commitments.
Future international co-operation with the international community would be conditional on this. The Council stressed the EU's
commitment to act in consultation with all relevant partners to resolve the situation peacefully.
Western Balkans
Federal Republic of Yugoslavia
The Council welcomed the agreement reached by political leaders in Serbia on 5 November 2002 and urged them to ensure political
stability, including a conclusive result for the forthcoming Serbian Presidential election, to allow all vital reforms to continue.
The Council recalled that further strengthening of democracy in the FRY and Serbia requires prompt solutions to pending issues. It
called on FRY political leaders to abide by democratic principles to ensure the effective functioning of institutions. It also
called on them to rapidly adopt the Constitutional Chart and Action Plans on the internal market, trade and customs, to make
progress towards the EU.
FRY/Kosovo
The Council welcomed the recent free and fair municipal elections in Kosovo and regretted that, following its boycott of elections,
the Serb population of Mitrovica had no democratic representation. The Council welcomed the successful Donor Co-ordination Meeting
of 5 November 2002 which underlined the need for continued engagement with the international community.
Arms sales
The Council expressed its deep concern at recent reports concerning illegal arms sales from FRY, Bosnia and Herzegovina to Iraq and
Iran, in clear breach of UN sanctions. Such illegal sales tarnished the international reputation of the countries concerned and
complicated their progress toward the EU. Measures had to be introduced to ensure such violations do not recur. The Council called
upon all potential candidates for EU membership to adhere to the EU code of conduct on arms exports without delay.
The international criminal tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY)
The Council reaffirmed the high importance it attaches to co-operation with ICTY. It expressed disappointment and growing concern at
the insufficient co-operation by the FRY, Bosnia, Herzegovina, and in some cases, Croatia. The Council reiterated that failure to
comply would seriously jeopardise further movement toward the EU.
Stability pact for South Eastern Europe
The Council expressed full support for the Special Co- ordinator of the Stability Pact, Dr. Erhard Busek. It invited the Special
Co-ordinator to present a report on this ahead of the June 2003 'Zagreb Process' Summit in Thessalonika.
ESDP
The Council underlined the importance of ensuring co-ordination of the EU's civilian and military crisis management instruments in
order to be able to respond effectively when needed. The Council welcomed the Action Plan on this and the intention to complete the
strengthening of civil-military co-ordination by the end of the Greek Presidency.
Military capabilities
The Council considered all relevant aspects of EU military capability development, including the Rapid Response elements of the
Headline Goal, common training and the Mediterranean Dimension. It welcomed the High Representative's report on efforts to reach
agreement between the EU and NATO and invited him to pursue his contacts and report back at its next meeting on 9 December. The
Council welcomed the PSC's progress report on Military Capabilities and noted that the overall assessment is encouraging. 19 panels
are considering the shortfalls to be remedied and will issue final reports, evaluating the military implications of each proposed
option, examine ways of filling potential gaps, study possible solutions and identify whether remaining shortfalls impose
constraints on the delivery of the Headline Goal, by 1 March 2003. The Council agreed to task the PSC and EUMC to finalise the work
on rapid response elements as soon as possible.
Civilian capabilities
The Council endorsed the declaration adopted by the Ministers for Foreign Affairs at their meeting in Brussels on 19 November 2002
at a Civilian Crisis Management Capability Conference. The declaration notes that an EU police planning capability already exists
and that an appropriate EU planning and mission support capability should be established within the General Secretariat of the
Council for the other areas of civilian crisis management as a matter of priority. As a result of the commitments made so far the EU
has been able to set up a European Union police mission (EUPM) in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which will take over from the UN
International Police Task Force (IPTF) on 1 January 2003. Ministers stressed that the development of the EU's civilian crisis
management capacity is an ongoing process. They stressed that a solution to the financing of civilian crisis management operations
under title V of the Treaty in European Union would have to be found as a matter of priority in order to meet the EU's ambitions in
the field.
International trade in coffee
The Council held an exchange of views and expressed serious concern about the situation. Although there were no quick, short-term
solutions, initiatives needed to be taken. The issue needed to be looked at in a broader context, including with a view to
sustainable development. The Council noted the Commission's willingness to explore possible solutions for the general commodities
situation.
Trade and development
Trade and poverty reduction
The Council welcomed the Commission's communication on Trade and Development and recalled the joint Council-Commission Statement on
the European Community's Development policy of November 2000, which highlights Trade and Development as a priority of poverty-
reducing Community development activities. The Council reiterated that trade liberalisation in itself is not sufficient to combat
poverty in developing countries, but must be part of a wider, country-owned poverty reduction strategy combining trade and
development objectives with sound domestic policies, including good governance and anti-corruption measures.
Integrating trade and development strategies
The Council recalled the Doha Declaration objectives and its commitment to placing development at the heart of the work programme
through: better market access for developing countries; balanced trade rules that developing countries can apply progressively and
flexibly; willingness to solve the Trade Related Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) problem; and through strengthening the
capacity for developing countries to adhere to technical standards and regulations.
The Council welcomed the outcome of the 2002 Monterrey Financing for Development conference, underlined its strong commitment to the
Cotonou Agreement and welcomed the initiation of negotiations on the Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) with the ACP countries
in September 2002. The Council emphasised that the "Everything But Arms" (EBA) initiative demonstrates the EU's leadership on trade
and development and calls on other industrialised countries to emulate this.
Enhancing trade-related assistance
The Council invited the Commission to ensure that trade-related assistance is stepped up as part of a coherent assistant strategy
within Country and Regional Strategy Papers (CSPs and CRSPs). It also endorsed the Commission's proposal to focus trade-related
assistance in three main areas: assistance for WTO accession, multilateral and other trade negotiations; support for implementation
of WTO commitments; and strengthening capacity to adhere to Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) measures and Technical Barriers to
Trade (TBT). It invited the Commission to pursue all initiatives that ensure trade, development and environment policies are
mutually supportive and urged the Commission to work to ensure an ambitious outcome for the Doha Development Agenda. The Commission
will present a comprehensive report on further trade and development recommendations in the first half of 2005.
Untying of aid
The Council heard a Commission presentation, based on a recent communication on untying aid. The Commission proposed that all aid
should be untied on two conditions: the agreement of the recipient country would be required and full untying would take place only
on the basis of reciprocity between donors.
Follow-up to international conferences
Monterrey
The Council held an exchange of views on commitments made at Monterrey (March 2002) and Johannesburg (September 2002) and stressed
the need for adequate monitoring of implementation of these in order to meet the Millennium Development goals.
Humanitarian crisis in Southern Africa
The Council reviewed the humanitarian situation crisis affecting Southern Africa, and in particular, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique,
Swaziland, Zambia and Zimbabwe. The Council called on the Commission and Member States to consider offering further aid in response
to UN appeals. The Commission was requested to make a more detailed needs assessment prior to the Council's meeting in December.
New Neighbours initiative
The Council adopted conclusions without debate, expressing its wish that the EU put in place further conditions which would allow it
to enhance its relations with its Eastern European neighbours: Ukraine, Moldova and Belarus. It recognised the need for the EU to
formulate an ambitious, long-term and integrated approach towards each of these countries, with the objective of promoting
democratic and economic reforms and sustainable development and trade. The Commission and High Representative were invited to
prepare more detailed proposals on how to take this initiative further.
Sri Lanka
The Council adopted the conclusions on Sri Lanka, undertaking to strengthen the EUs engagement in the peace process in Sri Lanka and
participate in the Oslo donor conference on 25 November 2002 and contribute to the donor fund to be established.
Chile
The Council adopted a Decision on the signature and provisional application of certain provisions of the Association Agreement
between the European Community and its Member States and Chile.
Justice and Home Affairs
The Council adopted conclusions on intensifying cooperation on the management of migration flows with third countries, to ensure
that an integrated, comprehensive and balanced approach to tackle the root causes of illegal immigration remains the European
Union's constant long-term objective. International Cocoa Agreement
The Council adopted a Decision on the signing and conclusion on behalf of the Community of the International Cocoa Agreement, 2001.
Liability and compensation for damage in connection with the carriage of hazardous and noxious substances by sea
The Council adopted a Decision authorising the Member States, in the interest of the European Community, to ratify or accede to the
International Convention on Liability and Compensation for Damage in Connection with the Carriage of Hazardous and Noxious
Substances by Sea 1, 1996 (the "HNS Convention").
Protection of the Communities' financial interests and the fight against fraud
The Council adopted conclusions taking note of the annual report 2001 from the Commission on the protection of the Communities'
financial interests and the fight against fraud. In particular it reiterated the importance it attaches to the participation of
third countries, and especially the candidate countries, in action to fight fraud, and to their co-operation with OLAF. It invited
the Commission to present a full summary of activities and actions undertaken in this field in the 2002 annual report.
Subjects
Constitutions; Arms trade; Cyprus; Chemicals; Fraud; Elections; Immigration; Health hazards; EU law; Undocumented migrants; EU accession; EU enlargement; Humanitarian aid; Iraq; EU common foreign and security policy; EU action; Greece; Poverty; Negotiations; Terrorism; Transport; Shipping; Sanctions; Balkans; Yugoslavia; Kosovo; Sri Lanka; European Council; Iran; Middle East; EU external relations; EU defence policy; North Korea; Chile; International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia; Belarus; Cocoa; Coffee; EU trade; EU General Affairs and External Relations Council
Date
26 November 2002
Reference
83152; 395 c192-8W
House
House of Commons
That this House calls on the Government to implement unilaterally a tougher sanctions regime against Robert Mugabe, his financial backers and those who oppress innocent people in his name; expresses frustration at those governments which openly and covertly provide support to the Government of Zimbabwe; further notes the lack of urgent international action to protect the people of Zimbabwe from the policies of selective starvation, deploring the repugnant policy of food-for-votes; welcomes the efforts of food charities to deliver aid to those who are starving, irrespective of tribal or political background; and calls upon the Department for International Development to work more closely with these non-government organisations to get the food through to where it is needed; deplores the unchecked slide to ethnic cleansing; calls upon the international community to engage with South Africa in constructing a financial package whereby South Africa will be compensated for closing her border with Zimbabwe; and calls upon the Government to raise itself from inertia and deal effectively with Robert Mugabe to provide a better future for all Zimbabweans.
That this House calls on the Government to implement unilaterally a tougher sanctions regime against Robert Mugabe, his financial backers and those who oppress innocent people in his name; expresses frustration at those governments which openly and covertly provide support to the Government of Zimbabwe; further notes the lack of...
Primary sponsor
Marquess of Lothian
(Conservative)
Type
Early day motions
Subjects
Humanitarian aid; Sanctions; Zimbabwe
Date
26 November 2002
Reference
194
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what representations he has made to the European Commission regarding (a) the role of Zimbabwe in the forthcoming meeting of the ACP-EU, and (b) the presence there of Zimbabwean ministers who are on the travel ban list.
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what representations he has made to the European Commission regarding (a) the role of Zimbabwe in the forthcoming meeting of the ACP-EU, and (b) the presence there of Zimbabwean ministers who are on the travel ban list.
Asked by
Caroline Spelman
(Conservative)
Answered by
Bill Rammell
(Labour)
Answering body
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
13 November 2002
For answer on
26 November 2002
Answered on
26 November 2002
Mrs. Spelman: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has made to the European
Commission regarding (a) the role of Zimbabwe in the forthcoming meeting of the ACP-EU, and (b) the presence there of Zimbabwean
ministers who are on the travel ban list. [80603]
Mr. Rammell: The forthcoming meeting of the European Union-African Caribbean Pacific (EU/ACP) Joint Parliamentary Assembly is a
matter for the respective Parliaments. Invitations were made by the co- Secretariat of the EU/ACP.
Those attending from ACP countries are entitled to certain privileges and immunities under the Lome and Cotonou Agreements. The EU'
s Common Position 2002/145/CFSP imposing sanctions on Zimbabwe specifically allows member states to grant exemptions where travel is
justified on grounds of attending meetings of international bodies.
On 7 November Belgium alerted EU partners to the request from Christopher Kuruneri, Zimbabwe's Deputy Minister for Finance and Paul
Mangwana, Minister of State for State Enterprises, for visas to attend the EU/ACP meeting. Both are on the EU travel ban list. Under
the terms of the Lome and Cotonou Agreements, Belgium had a legal obligation to grant these visas, since these agreements override
Council decisions on sanctions. The Belgian Government undertook to attach maximum restrictions. The banned individuals were granted
visas only for the period 19-29 November, restricted to the territory of Belgium.
Subjects
Travel; Sanctions; European Commission; Zimbabwe; Visits abroad; ACP countries; ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly
Date
26 November 2002
Reference
80603; 395 c199-200W
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what plans his Department has to send a representative to the meeting scheduled for EU and SADC leaders to be held in Lisbon in April 2003; what representations he has made to other SADC and EU countries concerning this...
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what plans his Department has to send a representative to the meeting scheduled for EU and SADC leaders to be held in Lisbon in April 2003; what representations he has made to other SADC and EU countries concerning this...
Asked by
Marquess of Lothian
(Conservative)
Answered by
Jack Straw
(Labour)
Answering body
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
19 November 2002
For answer on
25 November 2002
Answered on
25 November 2002
Mr. Ancram: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what plans his Department has to send a
representative to the meeting scheduled for EU and SADC leaders to be held in Lisbon in April 2003; what representations he has made
to other SADC and EU countries concerning this meeting; whether Zimbabweans on the EU travel ban list will be able to attend this
meeting; whether he plans to support a relocation of this meeting to a venue outside of the EU; and if he will make a statement.
[82772]
Mr. Straw: The meeting scheduled to be held in Lisbon in April 2003 is an EU/Africa meeting. There has so far been no formal EU
discussion of attendance or relocation. The Government considers that no-one subject to an EU travel ban should attend a meeting in
the European Union unless their right to attend is required pursuant to a legal obligation. The Government will decide its own
representation closer to the time.
Subjects
EU action; Travel; Travel restrictions; Sanctions; Zimbabwe; EU external relations; Southern Africa; Southern African Development Community
Date
25 November 2002
Reference
82772; 395 c82W;395 c81-2W
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what reports his Department has received concerning banned Zimbabwean Ministers being granted visas to attend the EU-ACP Joint Parliamentary Assembly in Brussels at the end of November; under what terms these visas have been granted; what role the European...
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what reports his Department has received concerning banned Zimbabwean Ministers being granted visas to attend the EU-ACP Joint Parliamentary Assembly in Brussels at the end of November; under what terms these visas have been granted; what role the European...
Asked by
Marquess of Lothian
(Conservative)
Answered by
Jack Straw
(Labour)
Answering body
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
19 November 2002
For answer on
25 November 2002
Answered on
25 November 2002
Mr. Ancram: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what reports his Department has received concerning
banned Zimbabwean Ministers being granted visas to attend the EU-ACP Joint Parliamentary Assembly in Brussels at the end of
November; under what terms these visas have been granted; what role the European Development Fund will have in funding these visits;
and if he will make a statement. [82785]
Mr. Straw: On 7 November Belgium alerted EU partners to the request for visas to attend the EU/ACP meeting from Christopher
Kuruneri, Zimbabwe's Deputy Minister for Finance and Paul Mangwana, Minister of State for State Enterprises. Both are on the EU
travel ban list. The Belgian Government explained that under the terms of the Lome and Cotonou Agreements, Belgium had a legal
obligation to grant these visas, since these agreements override Council decisions on sanctions. The Belgian Government undertook to
attach maximum restrictions. The banned individuals were granted visas only for the period 19-29 November, restricted to the
territory of Belgium.
The meeting of the EU/ACP Joint Parliamentary Assembly, funding issues and invitations to ACP countries, are matters for the
co-Secretariat of the EU/ ACP. Once the invitation had issued, the choice of representatives from Zimbabwe was a matter for the
Zimbabwe Parliament.
Subjects
Finance; Entry clearances; EU action; Travel; Travel restrictions; Visas; Sanctions; Zimbabwe; EU external relations; ACP countries
Date
25 November 2002
Reference
82785; 395 c81-2W;395 c81W
House
House of Commons
To ask Mr Chancellor of the Exchequer, if discussions with the Swiss Government regarding the exchange of banking information are ongoing; and if he will make a statement; whether he supports the imposition of sanctions on Switzerland if it does not agree to sharing banking information; what discussions he has...
To ask Mr Chancellor of the Exchequer, if discussions with the Swiss Government regarding the exchange of banking information are ongoing; and if he will make a statement; whether he supports the imposition of sanctions on Switzerland if it does not agree to sharing banking information; what discussions he has...
Asked by
Stephen O'Brien
(Conservative)
Answered by
Baroness Primarolo
(Labour)
Answering body
Treasury
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
13 November 2002
For answer on
20 November 2002
Answered on
20 November 2002
Subjects
Disclosure of information; Bank services; Banks; Information; Sanctions; Switzerland
Date
20 November 2002
Reference
394 c188W;394 c186W; 80741;81035;80742
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, if he will make a statement on what legislative and other changes he proposes to make to the sanctions arrangements in relation to Zimbabwe.
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, if he will make a statement on what legislative and other changes he proposes to make to the sanctions arrangements in relation to Zimbabwe.
Asked by
Norman Lamb
(Liberal Democrat)
Answered by
Bill Rammell
(Labour)
Answering body
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
13 November 2002
For answer on
18 November 2002
Answered on
18 November 2002
Norman Lamb: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on what legislative and
other changes he proposes to make to the sanctions arrangements in relation to Zimbabwe. [80928]
Mr. Rammell: EU sanctions on Zimbabwe have been extended twice since 18 February, on 22 July and 13 September. We keep the policy
under constant review.
Subjects
EU action; Sanctions; Zimbabwe
Date
18 November 2002
Reference
394 c9W; 80928
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what plans he has to introduce targetted sanctions against businesses or individuals profiting from the trade in conflict goods as referred to in paragraph 143 of the final report of the Panel of Experts on the alleged exploitation of...
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what plans he has to introduce targetted sanctions against businesses or individuals profiting from the trade in conflict goods as referred to in paragraph 143 of the final report of the Panel of Experts on the alleged exploitation of...
Asked by
Norman Lamb
(Liberal Democrat)
Answered by
Bill Rammell
(Labour)
Answering body
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
13 November 2002
For answer on
18 November 2002
Answered on
18 November 2002
Norman Lamb: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what plans he has to introduce targeted sanctions
against businesses or individuals profiting from the trade in conflict goods as referred to in paragraph 143 of the final report of
the Panel of Experts on the alleged exploitation of natural resources and other kinds of wealth of the Democratic Republic of the
Congo. [81323]
Mr. Rammell: The proposal to introduce targeted sanctions is one of a wide range of recommendations made by the UN expert panel
report being considered by Whitehall departments. In consultations at the UN on 13 November, a number of states asked for more
information to be made available to substantiate the report's allegations. The UK has also asked the UN directly for more
information, but has not yet received a response.
At the 13 November consultations, the UN panel's chairman--Ambassador Kassem--restated that the panel would recommend a grace period
of 5-6 months before imposing any sanctions, to allow the accused individuals and companies a chance to change their working
practices.
Subjects
Companies; Natural resources; Regulation; Trade; United Nations; Sanctions; Democratic Republic of the Congo
Date
18 November 2002
Reference
394 c8W; 81323
House
House of Commons