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To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, What recent discussions she has had regarding the future ferry services and improved road links between Scotland and Northern Ireland. (Failed OPQ).
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, What recent discussions she has had regarding the future ferry services and improved road links between Scotland and Northern Ireland. (Failed OPQ).
Asked by
Eric Clarke
(Labour)
Answered by
Baroness Liddell of Coatdyke
(Labour)
Answering body
Scotland Office
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
24 April 2001
For answer on
8 May 2001
Answered on
8 May 2001
Mr. Eric Clarke: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what recent discussions she has had regarding the future ferry services
and improved road links between Scotland and Northern Ireland. [159302]
Mrs. Liddell: The Government are aware of the potential economic benefits of improving transport links between Scotland and Northern
Ireland. My Department, in close consultation with the Scottish and Northern Ireland Executives, has been examining the case for a
Public Service Obligation to establish a ferry link between Campbeltown and Ballycastle. I am pleased to announce that, in
accordance with European Union rules, my Department will now invite potential operators for such a service to come forward with
costed proposals. Subject to further evaluation of the costs and benefits of such a service, this will enable the Government to make
progress this summer.
Subjects
Contracts; Ferries; Northern Ireland; Scotland; Transport; Roads; Ballycastle; Campbeltown
Date
8 May 2001
Reference
368 c58W; 159302
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, What progress has been made on the electricity inter-connector to Northern Ireland from Scotland and the upgrading of the English inter-connector. (Failed OPQ). - Includes figures.
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, What progress has been made on the electricity inter-connector to Northern Ireland from Scotland and the upgrading of the English inter-connector. (Failed OPQ). - Includes figures.
Asked by
Eric Clarke
(Labour)
Answered by
Baroness Liddell of Coatdyke
(Labour)
Answering body
Scotland Office
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
20 March 2001
For answer on
3 April 2001
Answered on
3 April 2001
Mr. Eric Clarke: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what progress has been made on the electricity interconnector to
Northern Ireland from Scotland and the upgrading of the English interconnector. [155178]
Mrs. Liddell: Progress is ongoing on upgrading interconnector links from Scotland to both Northern Ireland and England and I welcome
the further expansion of business opportunities in the electricity market. Work is under way to have the Scotland--Northern Ireland
interconnector fully operational by the end of the year, at a capacity of 480MW, which will be its design maximum. It is expected
that at least some of the electricity exported to Northern Ireland would then be re-exported to the Republic.
Work is also progressing to complete the upgrading of the Scotland--England interconnector by October 2002. The upgrade will take
its nominal capacity from 1600MW to 2200MW.
Subjects
Electricity generation; Electric cables; Scotland; Electricity interconnectors
Date
3 April 2001
Reference
366 c169W; 155178
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, what plans he has to re-instate the miners sacked in 1984-85 into the Miners' Pension Fund. - Ref to 27 March 2001, 365 c586W.
To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, what plans he has to re-instate the miners sacked in 1984-85 into the Miners' Pension Fund. - Ref to 27 March 2001, 365 c586W.
Asked by
Eric Clarke
(Labour)
Answered by
Lord Hain
(Labour)
Answering body
Department of Trade and Industry
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
26 March 2001
For answer on
30 March 2001
Answered on
30 March 2001
Mr. Eric Clarke: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what plans he has to reinstate the miners sacked in 1984-85
into the Miners' Pension Fund. [156110]
Mr. Hain: I refer my hon. Friend to the reply I gave to my hon. Friend the Member for Stoke-on-Trent, North (Ms Walley) on 27 March
2001, Official Report,
column 586W.
Subjects
Dismissal; Pensions; Mining; Pension rights
Date
30 March 2001
Reference
156110; 365 c789W
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, if he will make a statement on progress in reinstating pension rights for those miners sacked as a result of the 1984 industrial dispute.
To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, if he will make a statement on progress in reinstating pension rights for those miners sacked as a result of the 1984 industrial dispute.
Asked by
Eric Clarke
(Labour)
Answered by
Baroness Liddell of Coatdyke
(Labour)
Answering body
Department of Trade and Industry
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
15 November 2000
For answer on
21 November 2000
Answered on
21 November 2000
Mr. Eric Clarke: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on progress in reinstating pension
rights for those miners sacked as a result of the 1984 industrial dispute. [139094]
Mrs. Liddell: In May I circulated a consultation document concerning the issue of dismissals by British Coal in the course of the
1984-85 miners dispute. In the absence of evidence that dismissed men had been deprived of any pension rights to which they had been
entitled prior to their dismissal, the document made proposals aimed at addressing injustices which might have occurred at that time
while endeavouring not to re-open old wounds or create new anomalies.
The consultation exercise elicited some starkly conflicting views, and I am in the process of considering how these might be
reconciled and the matter satisfactorily resolved.
Subjects
Coal; Industrial disputes; Dismissal; Pensions; Mining
Date
21 November 2000
Reference
357 c108W; 139094
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, What steps the Government has taken to avoid the Scottish textiles industry being adversely affected by the trade dispute between the USA and the European Union. (Failed OPQ)
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, What steps the Government has taken to avoid the Scottish textiles industry being adversely affected by the trade dispute between the USA and the European Union. (Failed OPQ)
Asked by
Eric Clarke
(Labour)
Answered by
Brian Wilson
(Labour)
Answering body
Scotland Office
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
11 July 2000
For answer on
25 July 2000
Answered on
25 July 2000
Mr. Eric Clarke: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps the Government have taken to avoid the Scottish textiles
industry being adversely affected by the trade dispute between the USA and the European Union. [130582]
Mr. Wilson: The Government have been lobbying the United States hard to push the message that the retaliation faced by the United
Kingdom should be reduced in view of our constructive approach to trying to find a solution to the banana dispute. The Government
are also playing a major role within the European Community to reach a World Trade Organisation-compatible resolution to this
dispute.
I shall continue to have discussions with the Department of Trade and Industry and the Scottish Executive on how we can best help
the cashmere industry should it remain in the retaliation list.
Subjects
Industry; EU external trade; Scotland; Textiles; USA; Sanctions
Date
25 July 2000
Reference
354 c534-5W; 130582
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, What action is being taken to regenerate coalfield communities in Scotland. (Failed OPQ)
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, What action is being taken to regenerate coalfield communities in Scotland. (Failed OPQ)
Asked by
Eric Clarke
(Labour)
Answered by
Lord Reid of Cardowan
(Labour)
Answering body
Scotland Office
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
13 June 2000
For answer on
27 June 2000
Answered on
27 June 2000
Mr. Eric Clarke: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what action is being taken to regenerate coalfield communities in
Scotland. [126346]
Dr. Reid: This Government are very aware of the specific problems faced by coalfield areas and remains committed to a long-term plan
of action to regenerate coalfield communities. As I explained in my reply to the hon. Member on 18 April, the work of the Coalfields
Regeneration Trust is a matter for the Scottish Executive.
With the publication of the report "Improving Lottery Funding Access and Delivery in the British Coalfields" on 5 June, this
Government have signalled its intention to ensure that people in coalfields and other deprived areas can get the fullest benefit
possible from the National Lottery.
Subjects
Disadvantaged; Coal; National Lottery; Mining; Scotland; Coalfields Regeneration Trust
Date
27 June 2000
Reference
352 c483-4W; 126346
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, What meetings he has held with EWS Railway Freight Company to discuss the shortage of freight trains to meet the contracts with the Scottish coal companies over the last year. (Failed OPQ).
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, What meetings he has held with EWS Railway Freight Company to discuss the shortage of freight trains to meet the contracts with the Scottish coal companies over the last year. (Failed OPQ).
Asked by
Eric Clarke
(Labour)
Answered by
Brian Wilson
(Labour)
Answering body
Scotland Office
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
9 May 2000
For answer on
23 May 2000
Answered on
23 May 2000
Mr. Eric Clarke: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what meetings he has held with EWS Railway Freight Company to discuss
the shortage of freight trains to meet the contracts with the Scottish coal companies over the last year. [121887]
Mr. Wilson: I had a very useful meeting with EWS on 13 April, together with representatives of coal producers and generators, to
discuss issues relating to the transport of coal by rail.
I and my colleagues wish to ensure that the arrangements for transporting coal make the best use of the railway system, and provide
a more secure future for all concerned.
Subjects
Coal; Freight; Mining; Railways; Scotland; Trains; English, Welsh and Scottish Railway
Date
23 May 2000
Reference
121887; 350 c454W;350 c456W
House
House of Commons
To ask the Prime Minister, If he will list his official engagements for Wednesday 3rd May. (Question not printed).
To ask the Prime Minister, If he will list his official engagements for Wednesday 3rd May. (Question not printed).
Asked by
Eric Clarke
(Labour)
Answered by
Tony Blair
(Labour)
Answering body
Prime Minister
Prime Minister's questions - Lead
Status
Answered
Tabled on
12 April 2000
For answer on
3 May 2000
Answered on
3 May 2000
Subjects
Compensation; Dismissal; Pensions; Mining; Unfair dismissal
Date
3 May 2000
Reference
349 c142-3; 119382
Chamber / Committee
House of Commons chamber
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, What action he is taking to regenerate coalfield communities in Scotland. (Failed OPQ).
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, What action he is taking to regenerate coalfield communities in Scotland. (Failed OPQ).
Asked by
Eric Clarke
(Labour)
Answered by
Lord Reid of Cardowan
(Labour)
Answering body
Scotland Office
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
4 April 2000
For answer on
18 April 2000
Answered on
18 April 2000
Mr. Eric Clarke: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what action he is taking to regenerate coalfield communities in
Scotland. [118141]
Dr. Reid: The Coalfields Regeneration Trust was established following the recommendations of the Coalfields Task Force Report,
commissioned by my right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister.
Implementation of the Task Force's recommendations in Scotland is a matter for the Scottish Executive. The Scottish Executive Deputy
Minister for Communities announced an allocation of £4.5 million funding over three years for Scotland last month.
Subjects
Coal; Finance; Mining; Scotland; Coalfields Regeneration Trust
Date
18 April 2000
Reference
348 c474W; 118141
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, What assessment he has made of the effectiveness of action taken against those who break the United Nations sanction against Unita in Angola. (Failed OPQ). - Includes figures and ref to 342 c678-9.
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, What assessment he has made of the effectiveness of action taken against those who break the United Nations sanction against Unita in Angola. (Failed OPQ). - Includes figures and ref to 342 c678-9.
Asked by
Eric Clarke
(Labour)
Answered by
Lord Hain
(Labour)
Answering body
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
1 February 2000
For answer on
15 February 2000
Answered on
15 February 2000
Mr. Eric Clarke: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment he has made of the effectiveness
of action taken against those who break the United Nations sanction against UNITA in Angola. [108556]
Ms Ryan: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of
enforcement action against those who break the United Nations sanctions against UNITA in Angola. [108560]
Mr. Hain: I am extremely concerned by continuing reports of breaches of UN sanctions against UNITA. It is vital that would-be
sanctions busters are forced to recognise that the international community will not tolerate their activities. The UK fully
implements these sanctions and takes its enforcement responsibilities very seriously.
We strongly support the efforts of Ambassador Fowler, Chair of the UN Angola Sanctions Committee and the Expert Panels that have
been set up to investigate how these sanctions can be implemented more effectively. We have contributed $200,000 to fund their work.
As I told the House on 18 January, I have referred to the Sanctions Committee the details of three individuals I believe to be
breaching sanctions. We look forward to the forthcoming report of the Panels and their recommendations on how the sanctions can be
made to bite.
The UK regularly discusses better sanctions with fellow Governments on a bilateral basis, urging them to do all that they can to
fully implement the measures and take prompt and effective action in response to allegations of breaches. When I visited South
Africa in January, I agreed with Deputy Foreign Minister Pahad, who shares my concerns, that we would work very closely together on
this issue over the next few critical months.
Subjects
Armed conflict; UN resolutions; Sanctions; UNITA; Angola
Date
15 February 2000
Reference
344 c487-8W; 108556
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, What progress is being made in tackling poverty amongst children and pensioners in Scotland; and if he will make a statement. (Failed OPQ).
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, What progress is being made in tackling poverty amongst children and pensioners in Scotland; and if he will make a statement. (Failed OPQ).
Asked by
Eric Clarke
(Labour)
Answered by
Brian Wilson
(Labour)
Answering body
Scotland Office
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
11 January 2000
For answer on
25 January 2000
Answered on
25 January 2000
Mr. Eric Clarke: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what progress is being made in tackling poverty among children and
pensioners in Scotland; and if he will make a statement. [104950]
Mr. Wilson: The UK Government have a range of initiatives to alleviate poverty among children and pensioners in Scotland: the
Working Families Tax Credit, increases in child benefit, the restoration of free eye tests for pensioners, the Minimum Income
Guarantee for pensioners, cutting VAT on domestic fuel and increasing the winter fuel allowance. In addition, the Joint Ministerial
Committee on Poverty met last month and will ensure that the UK Government and the devolved administrations work effectively in
partnership to alleviate poverty.
Subjects
Children; Pensioners; Poverty; Scotland
Date
25 January 2000
Reference
343 c178W; 104950
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, what tonnage of imported steam coal was landed at Hunterston Port in Ayrshire, Scotland in the years (a) 1996-97, (b) 1997-98 and (c) 1998-99; and in which countries it originated, giving the tonnages for each country. - Inc table. (Holding...
To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, what tonnage of imported steam coal was landed at Hunterston Port in Ayrshire, Scotland in the years (a) 1996-97, (b) 1997-98 and (c) 1998-99; and in which countries it originated, giving the tonnages for each country. - Inc table. (Holding...
Asked by
Eric Clarke
(Labour)
Answered by
Baroness Liddell of Coatdyke
(Labour)
Answering body
Department of Trade and Industry
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
8 December 1999
For answer on
11 January 2000
Answered on
11 January 2000
Mr. Eric Clarke: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what tonnage of imported steam coal was landed at Hunterston
Port in Ayrshire, Scotland in the years (a) 1996-97, (b) 1997-98 and (c) 1998-99; and in which countries it originated, giving the
tonnages for each country. [102605]
Mrs. Liddell: [holding answer 13 December 1999]:
Information on imports of coal by port and country of origin are available only for trade from outside the EC. Similar information
on intra-EC trade is not collected.
Data on steam coal imports into Hunterston are not recorded separately. However, imports into Greenock Port which includes
Hunterston are available and are set out as follows; together with imports through all Scottish ports.
Steam coal imports from outside the EC
Million tonnes
_________________________________________________________________________________________________.
Port Country of origin 1996 1997 1998
Greenock{1} Australia -- 0.3 0.7
Colombia 0.7 0.9 1.0
South Africa 0.1 0.3 1.0
Others{2} 0.1 -- --
Total 0.8 1.5 2.7
All Scottish ports Australia -- 0.3 0.7
Colombia 0.7 0.9 1.0
South Africa 0.1 0.3 1.0
Others{2} 0.1 -- --
Total 0.9 1.5 2.7
All UK ports 8.4 10.1 12.2
_________________________________________________________________________________________________.
{1} Greenock includes the following ports: Annan, Barcaldine, Campbeltown, Faslane, Finnart, Furnace, Garlieston, Hunterston, Islay,
Oban, Palnackie, Stranraer. {2} Others are Indonesia, Poland and the United States of America {3} Less than 50,000 tonnes {4} Nil
Subjects
Coal; Imports; Scotland; Ayrshire
Date
11 January 2000
Reference
342 c109-10W; 102605
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, If he will make a statement on the future regulation of the generation and supply of electricity in Scotland. (Failed OPQ)
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, If he will make a statement on the future regulation of the generation and supply of electricity in Scotland. (Failed OPQ)
Asked by
Eric Clarke
(Labour)
Answered by
Brian Wilson
(Labour)
Answering body
Scotland Office
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
30 November 1999
For answer on
14 December 1999
Answered on
14 December 1999
Mr. Eric Clarke: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the future regulation of the generation
and supply of electricity in Scotland. [101235]
Mr. Wilson: Regulation of the electricity industry is a matter for the Director General of Gas and Electricity Supply. As part of
the Utility Reform Bill, which was announced in the Queen's speech last month, the role of the regulator will be revised to put
consumers at the heart of the regulatory process.
Subjects
Electricity generation; Electricity; Scotland; Regulation
Date
14 December 1999
Reference
341 c128W; 101235
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, What progress has been made through the Government task force on investment in the Scottish coalfield communities. (Failed OPQ).
To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, What progress has been made through the Government task force on investment in the Scottish coalfield communities. (Failed OPQ).
Asked by
Eric Clarke
(Labour)
Answered by
Brian Wilson
(Labour)
Answering body
Scotland Office
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
26 October 1999
For answer on
9 November 1999
Answered on
9 November 1999
Mr. Eric Clarke: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what progress has been made through the Government task force on
investment in the Scottish coalfield communities. [96360]
Mr. Wilson: The Coalfields Task Force is a UK wide initiative and an announcement on the allocation of the Coalfield Regeneration
Trust's funding for Scotland will be made on 22 November.
Subjects
Finance; Investment; Scotland; Coalfields Task Force
Date
9 November 1999
Reference
96360; 337 c508W
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, if he will make a statement about the preparedness of other countries to deal with the millennium bug. - Including fact that statements have been placed in the Library (Dep 99/1748) and information publicly available on the FCO website...
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, if he will make a statement about the preparedness of other countries to deal with the millennium bug. - Including fact that statements have been placed in the Library (Dep 99/1748) and information publicly available on the FCO website...
Asked by
Eric Clarke
(Labour)
Answered by
John Battle
(Labour)
Answering body
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
19 October 1999
For answer on
20 October 1999
Answered on
20 October 1999
Mr. Eric Clarke: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement about the
preparedness of other countries to deal with the millennium bug. [94878]
Mr. Battle: The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has been actively gathering information about the preparedness of other countries to
deal with the millennium bug. This information is being made publicly available on the FCO website at http://www.fco.gov.uk. So far,
we have published information on 70 countries and these are continuously updated. More will follow soon. Copies of these statements
have been placed in the Libraries of the House.
Subjects
International cooperation; Millennium compliance; Countries
Date
20 October 1999
Reference
94878; 336 c621W
House
House of Commons
Statement on the forthcoming business in the Council of the European Union to the end of October together with the major European Union events for the next six months. - Includes table.
Statement on the forthcoming business in the Council of the European Union to the end of October together with the major European Union events for the next six months. - Includes table.
Asked by
Eric Clarke
(Labour)
Answered by
Keith Vaz
(Labour)
Answering body
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
19 October 1999
For answer on
20 October 1999
Answered on
20 October 1999
Mr. Eric Clarke: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will list the forthcoming business in the
Council of the European Union to the end of October together with the major European Union events for the next six months. [94879]
Mr. Vaz: This calendar is primarily concerned with European Union matters, but certain other relevant events are also included.
Events and dates quoted are based on the information available on the date of issue.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________.
Date Venue Event
October 1999
30 September-1 October Helsinki Ministerial Conference on Equality between
Women and Men
1 Florence Trade Ministers (informal)
4-5 Luxembourg Justice and Home Affairs Council
4-5 Tampere Regional Policy Ministers
4-8 Strasbourg European Parliament Plenary
6 Luxembourg Transport Council
8 Luxembourg ECOFIN
11-12 Luxembourg General Affairs Council
12 Luxembourg Environment Council
15-16 Tampere Special European Council
18-19 Luxembourg Agriculture Council
22 Luxembourg Labour/Social Affairs Council
24-25 Helsinki Energy Ministers Task Force Meeting
25-29 Strasbourg European Parliament Plenary
26 Luxembourg Fisheries Council
28 Luxembourg Research Council
29 Luxembourg Justice and Home Affairs Council
November 1999
3-4 Brussels European Parliament Plenary
8 Brussels ECOFIN
8 Brussels Consumer Affairs Council
9 Brussels Industry Council
11 Brussels Development Council
11 Brussels Standing Committee Employment
12 Brussels Labour and Social Affairs Council
11-12 Helsinki Ministerial Conference on the Northern
Dimension
15-16 Brussels Agriculture Council
15-16 Brussels General Affairs Council
15-19 Strasbourg European Parliament Plenary
16 Brussels EEA Council
18 Brussels Health Council
22 Brussels Fisheries Council (possible)
22-23 Brussels EU-ACP Ministerial Meeting (possible)
23 Brussels Culture/Audiovisual Council
23 Brussels Youth Council
25-26 Brussels Budget Council
26 Brussels Education Council
29 Brussels ECOFIN/Labour and Social Affairs Council
30 Brussels Telecommunications Council
December 1999
1-2 Brussels European Parliament Plenary
2 Brussels Energy Council
2 Brussels Research Council
2-3 Brussels Justice and Home Affairs Council
6-7 Brussels General Affairs Council
7 Brussels Internal Market Council
9-10 Brussels Transport Council
10-11 Helsinki European Council
13 Brussels ECOFIN
13-14 Brussels Environment Council
13-17 Strasbourg European Parliament Plenary
14-15 Brussels Agriculture Council
14-16 Brussels Ministerial Conference on following of
progress on UN Beijing Platform for Action
16-17 Brussels Fisheries Council
16-17 Brussels EU-ACP Council (possible)
January 2000
14 Brussels Fisheries Council
18 Brussels Budget Council
24-25 Brussels General Affairs Council
24-25 Brussels Agriculture Council
28-29 Lisbon Development Council (informal)
31 Brussels ECOFIN
February 2000
11-12 Lisbon Social Affairs Council (informal)
14-15 Brussels General Affairs Council
21-22 Brussels Agriculture Council
28 Brussels ECOFIN
March 2000
3-4 Lisbon Justice and Home Affairs Council
(informal)
9 Brussels European Conference
13 Brussels Social Affairs/ECOFIN Council
16 Brussels Internal Market
20-21 Brussels General Affairs Council
20-21 Brussels Agriculture Council
23-24 Lisbon European Council
27 Brussels JHA Council
28 Brussels Transport Council
30 Brussels Environment Council
_________________________________________________________________________________________________.
Subjects
European Parliament; EU action; Council of Ministers; European Council; EC Agriculture Council; EC Fisheries Council; EU Foreign Affairs Council; EC Finance Council; EC Labour and Social Affairs Council; EC Transport Council; EEA Council; EC Health Council; EU Environment Council; EC Internal Market Council; EC Education Council; EC Research Council; EC Energy Council; EC Industry Council; EC Consumer Affairs Council; EC Development Council; EU Budget Council; EC Culture Council; EC Telecommunications Council; EC Youth Council; EU Standing Committee on Employment and Social Affairs; ACP-EU Joint Assembly; EU Justice and Home Affairs Council (1993-2000)
Date
20 October 1999
Reference
94879; 336 c600-2W
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, if he will make a statement on relations between Britain and Sierra Leone. - Includes figures.
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, if he will make a statement on relations between Britain and Sierra Leone. - Includes figures.
Asked by
Eric Clarke
(Labour)
Answered by
Lord Hain
(Labour)
Answering body
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
19 October 1999
For answer on
20 October 1999
Answered on
20 October 1999
Mr. Eric Clarke: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on relations between
Britain and Sierra Leone. [94876]
Mr. Hain: We welcomed the signature on 7 July of the Lome Peace Agreement between the Government of Sierra Leone and the
Revolutionary United Front. Our objective now is to help the government and people of Sierra Leone to implement the peace agreement,
and thus build a framework for lasting peace and security.
We have implemented the £10 million package of assistance which my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary announced on 2 March
1999. This has included: UK military advisers helping to train the new, democratically accountable Sierra Leone Army; a range of
equipment for the new Army including uniforms, vehicles, and light weapons; logistical support and equipment for the ECOMOG
peacekeeping forces; and support for civil society and government participation in the negotiation of the peace agreement. The
ECOWAS Secretariat confirmed that the weapons could be imported as an exemption to the ECOWAS Small Arms Moratorium; and the UN
Sanctions Committee was notified of these exports. We are working with the United Nations to support the early deployment of a UN
peacekeeping force to Sierra Leone.
DFID and the MOD are also supporting a range of projects in Sierra Leone. We will take every opportunity, including at the
forthcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting in Durban, to encourage further support for Sierra Leone from others in the
international community.
Subjects
Development aid; Defence equipment; International assistance; Foreign relations; Peacekeeping operations; Sierra Leone; Military aid
Date
20 October 1999
Reference
94876; 336 c619-21W
House
House of Commons
Statement on the outcome of the General Affairs Council. - Including fact that copies of documents will be placed in Library as soon as possible.
Statement on the outcome of the General Affairs Council. - Including fact that copies of documents will be placed in Library as soon as possible.
Asked by
Eric Clarke
(Labour)
Answered by
Keith Vaz
(Labour)
Answering body
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
19 October 1999
For answer on
20 October 1999
Answered on
20 October 1999
Mr. Eric Clarke: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the outcome of
the General Affairs Council. [94880]
Mr. Vaz: The GAC adopted the A points listed in document 11573/99 and noted the resolutions, decisions and opinions adopted by the
European Parliament in its session of 13-17 September listed in document 10352/1/99. Copies of the documents listing the A points
and resolutions will be placed in the House Libraries as soon as they become available.
Preparation of Tampere European Council
The Presidency briefed the GAC on Finnish Prime Minister Lipponen's tour of capitals. The traditional letter of invitation to
Tampere would issue very shortly. The Presidency also briefly mentioned external aspects of Justice and Home Affairs co-operation,
in the context of preparation for Tampere. There was no discussion.
Charter of Fundamental Rights
After a very brief discussion, the Presidency concluded that there was agreement on their proposals for the composition and rules of
procedure of the body responsible for preparing the first draft of the Charter.
ESDP Military and Non-Military Crisis Management: Preparation in View of the European Council in Helsinki The Presidency briefed
Ministers on work underway on European defence.
Earthquake in Greece
The Greek Foreign Minister reported to the Council on the extensive damage caused by the earthquake in Athens on 7 September. The
Council encouraged the Commission to examine all possible ways of assisting Greece, making full use of the possibilities offered
under the structural funds, on the basis of a specific evaluation of the damage.
Northern Caucasus/Chechnya
Ministers expressed their strong concern at the deteriorating human rights situation in Chechnya and at the risks of the conflict
spreading. They supported the Commission package of 1.2 million euro of humanitarian aid.
Western Balkans
The Council agreed the Commission's proposal for a pilot of the "Energy for Democracy" programme in Serbia, which will supply
heating oil and diesel to the towns of Nis and Pirot, where opposition parties run the local administration. The Council discussed
the possibility of lifting the flight ban on Serbia, but no consensus was reached. The Council welcomed initiatives proposed by the
UK on tackling organised crime in Kosovo. The Council asked the Commission and other relevant bodies to come up with proposals.
Foreign Ministers will discuss the issue further when they meet at the Tampere Special European Council.
Burma Foreign Ministers expressed their concern at the lack of progress on human rights in Burma. Ministers offered their full
support for the forthcoming mission of the UN Secretary General's Special Representative to Burma and hoped that it would lead to an
improvement in human rights and the promotion of democracy. The Council extended the EU's Common Position on Burma for a further six
months, agreeing to review it after Mr. de Soto's mission.
EU Code of Conduct on Arms Export
The GAC approved the first consolidated report on the operation of the EU Code of Conduct on Arms Exports and agreed to publish the
report in the Official Journal. The report summarises actions taken by member states to implement the provisions of the Code and
outlines priorities for future action.
East Timor
Foreign Ministers welcomed the deployment of the International Force in East Timor. The Commission announced its intention to
provide further EC funds for the UN Mission in East Timor and for the eventual UN Transitional Authority in East Timor.
Preparation for Seattle Ministerial
The GAC continued to discuss the EU's approach to the negotiations on a new multilateral trade round. They confirmed the EU's strong
support for a comprehensive round to be launched at the WTO Ministerial conference in Seattle (30 November- 3 December). Foreign
Ministers had lunch with the Israeli Foreign Minister, David Levy. Mr. Levy stressed the Israeli government's commitment to the
Middle East Peace Process, and the importance of restarting all tracks of the Process. He called for strengthened links between the
EU and Israel. The GAC welcomed EU Special Envoy Moratinos' initiative for an `EU-Israel Forum'.
Meeting with Serb Opposition leaders
The GAC met with representatives of democratic forces in the FRY. Foreign Ministers underlined the EU's readiness to support the
people of the FRY in their efforts to promote democracy, human rights and the rule of law, and the development of good regional and
international relations.
Co-operation Councils with Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia
The first ever Co-operation Councils with the three South Caucasus states took place on 12 October. Discussion covered political
cooperation, trade and investment, democracy and human rights and cooperation in Justice and Home Affairs.
Subjects
Armenia; Arms trade; Human rights; Export controls; EU action; Finland; Greece; Organised crime; Trade; Myanmar; Serbia; Israel; Yugoslavia; Kosovo; European Council; Middle East; Earthquakes; Peace negotiations; EU external relations; EU aid; Chechnya; East Timor; Georgia; EU Foreign Affairs Council; Azerbaijan
Date
20 October 1999
Reference
94880; 336 c601-4W
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, if he will publish GCHQ's recruitment statistics for 1998 indicating the comparable figures for 1997. - Includes figures.
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, if he will publish GCHQ's recruitment statistics for 1998 indicating the comparable figures for 1997. - Includes figures.
Asked by
Eric Clarke
(Labour)
Answered by
Robin Cook
(Labour)
Answering body
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
19 October 1999
For answer on
20 October 1999
Answered on
20 October 1999
Mr. Eric Clarke: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will publish GCHQ's recruitment statistics
for 1998 indicating the comparable figures for 1997. [94877]
Mr. Robin Cook: GCHQ notified the Commissioners that as a result of recruitment schemes run in 1998, 182 individuals have joined the
department or are awaiting completion of the recruitment process. The 1997 recruitment schemes yielded 236 new entrants. In
addition, eight former members of staff were reappointed in 1998 compared with five in 1997.
Subjects
Civil servants; Civil service; GCHQ; Recruitment
Date
20 October 1999
Reference
94877; 336 c621W
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions, what progress he has made in his consideration of the draft decisions submitted to him by the Environment Agency on Sellafield MOX plant. - Includes figures.
To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions, what progress he has made in his consideration of the draft decisions submitted to him by the Environment Agency on Sellafield MOX plant. - Includes figures.
Asked by
Eric Clarke
(Labour)
Answered by
Lord Prescott
(Labour)
Answering body
Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
24 May 1999
For answer on
11 June 1999
Answered on
11 June 1999
Mr. Eric Clarke: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what progress he has made in his
consideration of the draft decisions submitted to him by the Environment Agency on Sellafield MOX plant. [85629]
Mr. Prescott: The Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food and I have looked very carefully at the recommendations made by the
Environment Agency about the justification for the MOX plant. We have also examined the representations made to us about the plant.
Our provisional conclusion is that the balance of the argument so far is in favour of justification. However, we have also come to
the conclusion that there should be further consultations on the economic case for the plant. We were concerned that the version of
the report by PA Consulting on the economic case for the plant, which had been published by the Agency in January last year, did not
contain as much information as the public could reasonably expect to see. We have therefore decided to publish a fuller version of
the report. We accept, however, that some material contained in the report is commercially confidential and cannot be published
without potentially harming BNFL's commercial interests. This information has been omitted from the version we are publishing.
In view of the time that has passed since PA Consulting completed their report, we decided to commission from BNFL an up-to-date
assessment of the market for MOX fuel. This assessment is also being published. Comments are being invited on this material by 23
July after which we shall take a final decision on the full operation of the plant.
While this consultation is under way, and given our view that the balance of the argument currently favours justification we have
concluded that it would be right for BNFL to be allowed to proceed with the uranium commissioning of the plant. We concluded that it
would be right to allow this before final conclusions are reached about whether to give the go-ahead for the full operation of the
plant. This would enable BNFL to begin testing the plant before the introduction of plutonium. In this way, if the plant is
eventually given the go-ahead, the delays in running the plant commercially would be minimised. If, after the consultation exercise
we decide that full operation is not justified, the process would be halted and uranium removed from the plant. The costs of
removal, estimated at £2 million, would be met by BNFL.
Subjects
British Nuclear Fuels; Environment Agency; Publications; Radioactive waste; Nuclear fuel reprocessing; Sellafield; Uranium; Consultation papers; Mixed oxide fuel
Date
11 June 1999
Reference
85629; 332 c399-400W
House
House of Commons