Important legal notice

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52006SC0023

Recommendation for a Council opinion in accordance with the third paragraph of Art. 5 of Council Regulation (EC) No 1466/97 of 7 July 1997 on the updated stability programme of Finland, 2005-2009  /* SEC/2006/0023 final */

	[pic] | COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES |Brussels, 11.1.2006SEC(2006) 23 finalRecommendation for aCOUNCIL OPINIONin accordance with the third paragraph of Art. 5 of Council Regulation (EC) No 1466/97 of 7 July 1997 On the updated stability programme of Finland, 2005-2009(presented by the Commission)EXPLANATORY MEMORANDUMBackgroundThe Stability and Growth Pact, which entered into force on 1 July 1998, is based on the objective of sound government finances as a means of strengthening the conditions for price stability and for strong sustainable growth conducive to employment creation. In 2005, the Pact was amended for the first time. The reform acknowledged the Pact’s usefulness in anchoring fiscal discipline but sought to strengthen its effectiveness and economic underpinnings as well as to safeguard the sustainability of the public finances in the long run.Council Regulation (EC) No 1466/97 on the strengthening of the surveillance of budgetary positions and the surveillance and coordination of economic policies[1], which is part of the Pact, stipulates that Member States have to submit, to the Council and the Commission, stability or convergence programmes and annual updates thereof (Member States that have already adopted the single currency submit (updated) stability programmes and Member States that have not yet adopted it submit (updated) convergence programmes). The first stability programme of Finland was submitted in September 1998. In accordance with the Regulation, the Council delivered an opinion on it on 12 October 1998 on the basis of a recommendation from the Commission and after having consulted the Economic and Financial Committee. In accordance with the same procedure, updated stability and convergence programmes are assessed by the Commission and examined by the Committee mentioned above, while the Council may examine them.In these programmes, Member States need to specify their medium-term objective for the budgetary position and set out the policy measures to achieve and maintain it, including the accompanying economic assumptions. Following the reform of the Pact, the medium-term objective should be differentiated for individual Member States in the light of the economic and budgetary heterogeneity in the Union, including as regards the fiscal risk to sustainability. Other elements of the reform are that a more symmetrical approach to fiscal policy over the cycle through enhanced budgetary discipline in economic good times should be achieved, while “major structural reforms” with a verifiable impact on long-term sustainability should be taken into account for a temporary deviation from the medium-term objective or the adjustment path towards it.Taking into account the Commission services’ autumn 2005 forecast, the code of conduct[2], the commonly agreed methodology for the estimation of potential output and cyclically-adjusted balances and the broad economic policy guidelines included in the integrated guidelines for the period 2005-2008, the Commission has examined the recently submitted update of the stability programme of Finland and, based on its assessment below, has adopted a recommendation for a Council opinion on it.Assessment1.  The Finnish stability programme update was submitted on 24 November 2005. The programme covers the period from 2005 to 2009. The programme broadly follows the model structure for stability and convergence programmes specified in the new code of conduct. It has gaps in the compulsory and optional data prescribed by the new code of conduct (especially data on external assumptions for the years 2007-2009 are missing). The update does not explicitly define a medium-term objective (MTO) for the budgetary position as required by the code of conduct.2.  After recovering from an exceptionally deep recession in the beginning of the 1990s, the Finnish economy expanded strongly over the period 1995–2004, reaching an average growth rate of 3½% p.a., which is about 1½ percentage points above the euro area average. Strong growth has helped to raise the employment rate from its post-recession level of 60 % to 68% in 2004. With an average annual rate of 1½%, the inflation for the period 1995-2004 was ½ percentage point below the euro area level. The macroeconomic scenario underlying the programme envisages real GDP growth to ease from an annual average of 2.7% in 2005-2006 to 2.3% on average over the rest of the programme period. GDP growth rates for 2005 and 2006 are significantly influenced by production stoppages in the paper and pulp industry caused by a labour dispute, explaining the sharp decline in 2005 and a consequent hike in 2006. Both the short-term and medium-term forecasts presented in the programme are more cautious than the Commission services’ forecasts. The programme’s projections for inflation appear realistic and are in line with those by Commission services.3.  In its opinion of 17 February 2005 on the previous update of the Stability Programme, covering the period 2004-2008, the Council endorsed the budgetary strategy presented in the programme. The general government surplus for 2005 is estimated, based on the Commission services’ forecast, at 1.9% of GDP, which corresponds closely to the targeted surplus in the previous update of the programme.4.  The government’s key objectives in this update are achieving balanced central government finances under normal conditions of economic growth and securing the long-term sustainability of public finances in the light of the adverse effects of population ageing. Measures are also proposed to improve the financial accounts of local governments, which should enable them to record a balanced position by the end of the programme period. The general government surplus will be on a slightly declining trend to reach 1.5 % of GDP by the end of the programme period. Both revenues and expenditures as a ratio to GDP will decline from 2005 to 2007 (both by around 1 percentage point of GDP), after which both ratios, and therefore also net lending, are projected to remain stable. The profile of the primary surplus shows a somewhat steeper fall due to the projected drop in the GDP share of interest expenditure. The decline in the surplus reflects the phased introduction of tax cuts. Expenditure is to be kept in check by the government’s budgetary spending ceilings and by a reduction in interest expenditure. Compared with the previous update, the surplus estimates for 2006-2009 have been revised downwards by around 0.5% of GDP, due to the tax cuts and a more cautious outlook on the financial position of social security funds and local governments.5.  In structural terms, the surplus is projected to decline slightly in the next three years from around 2 % of GDP in 2005 to 1¾% in the period 2006-2008, but to rebound in 2009. However, this rebound is entirely due to the assumed widening of the output gap to about -1% of GDP at the end of the programme period. The programme projects the structural surplus to decline to around 1½ % of GDP by the end of the programme period (2009)[3]. For the purpose of this assessment, this is taken to be the programme’s MTO. As the programme’s MTO is more demanding than the minimum benchmark (estimated at a deficit of around 1% of GDP), its achievement should fulfil the aim of providing a safety margin against the occurrence of an excessive deficit. As regards appropriateness, the programme’s MTO lies within the range indicated for euro area and ERM II Member States in the Stability and Growth Pact and the code of conduct and is significantly more demanding than implied by the debt ratio and average potential output growth in the long term. Having an MTO well above the minimum required level is motivated in the programme by the goal of ensuring the long-term sustainability of public finances.6.  The risks attached to the budgetary targets in the update appear to be broadly balanced. The targets until 2007 are in line with the Commission services’ autumn 2005 economic forecast, with the latter being slightly more optimistic. The multi-annual spending ceilings for central government have worked well so far to contain spending, while tax projections seem to be based on a cautious assessment. As regards economic growth, the stability programme draws attention to the risk that the adverse effects from population ageing and dwindling labour supply might be underestimated; however, taking into account that the growth assumptions seem cautious when compared with the Commission services’ forecasts, the risks arising from the growth outlook appear to be balanced.7.  Taking into account the risk assessment above, the budgetary strategy outlined in the programme seems sufficient to ensure that the programme’s inferred MTO is maintained throughout the programme period. In addition, it also provides a sufficient safety margin against breaching the 3% of GDP deficit ceiling with normal macroeconomic fluctuations for the entire period. Overall, the budgetary position is sound and the budgetary strategy provides a good example of fiscal policies run in compliance with the pact.8.  The general government gross debt level is forecast to remain well below the 60% of GDP reference value throughout the programme period. The update projects the debt ratio to fall from an estimated 42.7% of GDP in 2005 to 40.1% by 2009. The decline in the debt ratio that would result from the significant primary surpluses is tempered by a debt-increasing stock-flow adjustment reflecting the accumulation of assets in the social security funds.9.  With regard to the sustainability of public finances, Finland appears to be at low risk on grounds of the projected budgetary costs of ageing populations. The gross debt ratio is currently below the 60% of GDP reference value, and is projected to remain below this value throughout most of the projection period which extends until 2050. The significant assets of social security and the currently favourable budgetary position contribute to limit the budgetary impact of ageing populations. However, in the long run, a risk to public finance sustainability could emerge, reflecting rising pension expenditure. Containing age-related expenditure over the long term, including the successful implementation of recent reform measures aimed at rising the effective retirement age, while maintaining sound budgetary positions would be key components in reducing risks to public finance sustainability[4].10.  The envisaged measures in the area of public finances are broadly consistent with the broad economic policy guidelines included in the integrated guidelines for the period 2005-2008. In particular, the measures are geared towards ensuring economic and fiscal sustainability and towards promoting growth and job creation, such as a major pension reform that is currently being phased in.11.  The National Reform Programme of Finland, submitted on 14 October 2005 in the context of the renewed Lisbon strategy for growth and jobs, identifies the following challenges with significant implications for public finances: (i) the sustainability of public finances and (ii) the functioning of the labour market. The budgetary implications of the actions outlined in the National reform Programme are fully reflected in the budgetary projections of the stability programme. The measures in the area of public finances envisaged in the stability programme are in line with the actions foreseen in the National Reform Programme. In particular, the stability programme outlines measures to improve the efficiency of both central and local governments, and confirms the intention to continue with applying central government budgetary spending limits beyond the current legislation period.Recommendation for aCOUNCIL OPINIONin accordance with the third paragraph of Art. 5 of Council Regulation (EC) No 1466/97 of 7 July 1997 On the updated stability programme of Finland, 2005-2009THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Community,Having regard to Council Regulation (EC) No 1466/97 of 7 July 1997 on the strengthening of the surveillance of budgetary positions and the surveillance and coordination of economic policies[5], and in particular Article 5(3) thereof,Having regard to the recommendation of the Commission,After consulting the Economic and Financial Committee,HAS DELIVERED THIS OPINION:12.  On [24 January 2006] the Council examined the updated stability programme of Finland, which covers the period 2005 to 2009. The programme broadly follows the model structure for stability and convergence programmes specified in the new code of conduct. It has gaps in the compulsory and optional data prescribed by the new code of conduct (especially data on external assumptions for the years 2007-2009 are missing). The programme does not explicitly define its medium-term objective (MTO) for the budgetary position as required by the code of conduct.13.  After recovering from an exceptionally deep recession in the beginning of the 1990s the Finnish economy expanded strongly over the period 1995–2004, reaching an average growth rate of 3.6% p.a.. The strong pace of activity helped to raise the employment rate; nevertheless inflation remained below the euro-area average. The macroeconomic scenario underlying the programme envisages real GDP growth to ease from an annual average of 2.7% in 2005-2006 to 2.3% on average over the rest of the programme period. Assessed against currently available information, this scenario appears to be based on cautious growth assumptions. The programme’s projections for inflation appear realistic.14.  In its opinion of 17 February 2005 on the previous update of the Stability Programme, covering the period 2004-2008, the Council endorsed the budgetary strategy presented in the programme. The general government surplus for 2005 is estimated, based on the Commission services’ forecast, at 1.9% of GDP, which corresponds closely to the targeted surplus in the previous update of the programme.15.  The government’s key objectives are achieving balanced central government finances under normal conditions of economic growth and securing the long-term sustainability of public finances. The general government surplus is projected to be on a slightly declining trend, to reach 1.5% of GDP by 2008-2009; the decline in the primary surplus is somewhat steeper due to a projected drop in interest expenditure. The decline in the surplus is revenue-driven, reflecting the gradual enactment of tax cuts. Expenditure is projected to be kept in check by the government’s budgetary spending ceilings and by a reduction in interest expenditure. Compared with the previous update, the surplus estimates for 2006-2009 have been revised downwards by around 0.5% of GDP, due to the tax cuts and a more cautious outlook on the financial position of social security funds and local governments.16.  Over the programme period, the structural surplus (i.e. the cyclically-adjusted balance net of one-off and other temporary measures) calculated according to the commonly agreed methodology is planned to weaken slightly in the next three years from around 2 % of GDP in 2005 to 1¾% in the period 2006-2008, but to rebound in 2009 reflecting an estimated widening of the output gap. The programme projects the structural surplus to reach around 1½ % of GDP by the end of the programme period[6], which can be regarded as the programme’s MTO as it is in line with the principles for MTOs specified in the Stability and Growth Pact and the code of conduct. As the programme’s MTO is more demanding than the minimum benchmark (estimated at a deficit of around 1% of GDP), its achievement should fulfil the aim of providing a safety margin against the occurrence of an excessive deficit. As regards appropriateness, the programme’s MTO lies within the range indicated for euro area and ERM II Member States in the Stability and Growth Pact and the code of conduct and is significantly more demanding than implied by the debt ratio and average potential output growth in the long term. Having an MTO well above the minimum required level is motivated in the programme by the goal of ensuring the long-term sustainability of public finances.17.  The risks to the budgetary projections in the programme appear broadly balanced. Tax projections seem based on cautious assumptions and the expenditure ceiling framework has so far been very effective. The stability programme draws attention to the risk that the adverse effects on economic growth from population ageing and dwindling labour supply might be underestimated in the current calculations; however, as mentioned above, the economic growth projections in the update can be regarded as cautious.18.  In view of this risk assessment, the budgetary stance in the programme seems sufficient to maintain the programme’s MTO throughout the programme period, as envisaged in the programme. In addition, it provides a sufficient safety margin against breaching the 3% of GDP deficit ceiling with normal macroeconomic fluctuations for the entire period. Overall, the budgetary position is sound and the budgetary strategy provides a good example of fiscal policies run in compliance with the pact.19.  The debt ratio is estimated to have reached 42.7% of GDP in 2005, well below the 60% of GDP Treaty reference value. The programme projects the debt ratio to decline by 2.6 percentage points over the programme period.20.  Finland appears to be at low risk on grounds of the projected budgetary costs of ageing populations. The gross debt ratio is currently below the 60% of GDP reference value, and is projected to remain below this value throughout most of the projection period which extends until 2050. The significant assets of social security and the currently favourable budgetary position contribute to limit the budgetary impact of ageing populations. However, in the long run, a risk to public finance sustainability could emerge, reflecting rising pension expenditure. Containing age-related expenditure over the long term, including the successful implementation of recent reform measures aimed at rising the effective retirement age, while maintaining sound budgetary positions would be key components in reducing risks to public finance sustainability[7].21.  The envisaged measures in the area of public finances are broadly consistent with the broad economic policy guidelines included in the integrated guidelines for the period 2005-2008. In particular, the measures are geared towards ensuring economic and fiscal sustainability and towards promoting growth and job creation, such as a major pension reform that is currently being phased in.22.  The National Reform Programme of Finland, submitted on 14 October 2005 in the context of the renewed Lisbon strategy for growth and jobs, identifies the following challenges with significant implications for public finances: (i) the sustainability of public finances and (ii) the functioning of the labour market. The budgetary implications of the actions outlined in the National reform Programme are fully reflected in the budgetary projections of the stability programme. The measures in the area of public finances envisaged in the stability programme are in line with the actions foreseen in the National Reform Programme. In particular, the stability programme outlines measures to improve the efficiency of both central and local governments, and confirms the intention to continue with applying central government budgetary spending limits beyond the current legislation period.Comparison of key macroeconomic and budgetary projections2004 | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 | 2008 | 2009 |Real GDP (% change) | SP Nov 2005 | 3.6 | 2.1 | 3.2 | 2.6 | 2.3 | 2.1 |COM Nov 2005 | 3.6 | 1.9 | 3.5 | 3.1 | n.a. | n.a. |SP Dec 2004 | 3.2 | 2.8 | 2.4 | 2.2 | 2.0 | n.a. |HICP inflation (%) | SP Nov 2005 | 0.2 | 1.0 | 1.3 | 1.5 | 1.8 | 1.8 |COM Nov 2005 | 0.1 | 1.0 | 1.4 | 1.3 | n.a. | n.a. |SP Dec 2004 | 0.2 | 1.4 | 1.8 | 1.8 | 1.8 | n.a. |COM Nov 2005 | 3.8 | 3.8 | 3.7 | 3.6 | n.a. | n.a. |SP Dec 2004 | 3.7 | 3.4 | 3.8 | 3.9 | 3.7 | n.a. |Cyclically-adjusted balance = structural balance2,3 (% of GDP) | SP Nov 20051 | 2.1 | 2.1 | 1.7 | 1.7 | 1.7 | 2.0 |COM Nov 20054 | 2.3 | 2.7 | 2.3 | 2.1 | n.a. | n.a. |SP Dec 20041 | 2.2 | 1.9 | 2.2 | 2.4 | 2.4 | n.a. |Government gross debt (% of GDP) | SP Nov 2005 | 44.9 | 42.7 | 41.7 | 41.1 | 40.6 | 40.1 |COM Nov 2005 | 45.1 | 42.8 | 41.5 | 40.6 | n.a. | n.a. |SP Dec 2004 | 44.6 | 43.4 | 42.5 | 41.7 | 41.1 | n.a. |Notes: 1 Commission services calculations on the basis of the information in the programme. 2 Cyclically-adjusted balance excluding one-off and other temporary measures. 3 One-off and other temporary measures taken from the programme. 4 One-off and other temporary measures taken from the Commission services’ autumn 2005 forecast. 5 Based on estimated potential growth of 2.9%, 2.9%, 2.8% and 2.7% respectively in the period 2004-2007. Source: Stability programme (SP); Commission services’ autumn 2005 economic forecasts (COM); Commission services’ calculations. |[1] OJ L 209, 2.8.1997, p. 1. Regulation as amended by Regulation (EC) No 1055/2005 (OJ L 174, 7.7.2005, p. 1). All the documents referred to in this text can be found at the following website:http://europa.eu.int/comm/economy_finance/about/activities/sgp/main_en.htm[2] Opinion of the Economic and Financial Committee on the “Specifications on the implementation of the Stability and Growth Pact and guidelines on the format and content of stability and convergence programmes”, endorsed by the ECOFIN Council of 11 October 2005.[3] As calculated in the programme. Commission services’ recalculations on the basis of the information in the programme according to the commonly agree methodology give a structural surplus of 2% of GDP in 2009.[4] Details on long-term sustainability are provided in the technical assessment of the programme by the Commission services, to be published at the website http://europa.eu.int/comm/economy_finance/about/activities/sgp/main_en.htm[5] OJ L 209, 2.8.1997, p. 1. Regulation as amended by Regulation (EC) No 1055/2005 (OJ L 174, 7.7.2005, p. 1). The documents referred to in this text can be found at the following website:http://europa.eu.int/comm/economy_finance/about/activities/sgp/main_en.htm[6] As calculated in the programme. Commission services’ recalculations on the basis of the information in the programme according to the commonly agree methodology give a structural surplus of 2% of GDP in 2009.[7] Details on long-term sustainability are provided in the technical assessment of the programme by the Commission services, to be published at the website http://europa.eu.int/comm/economy_finance/about/activities/sgp/main_en.htm


Avis juridique important

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E1997C0166

RECOMMENDATION OF THE EFTA SURVEILLANCE AUTHORITY No 166/97/COL of 17 June 1997 concerning a co-ordinated programme for the official control of foodstuffs for 1997

Official Journal L 303 , 06/11/1997 P. 0017 - 0025

RECOMMENDATION OF THE EFTA SURVEILLANCE AUTHORITY No 166/97/COL of 17 June 1997 concerning a co-ordinated programme for the official control of foodstuffs for 1997 THE EFTA SURVEILLANCE AUTHORITY,Having regard to the European Economic Area Agreement, and in particular Article 109 and Protocol 1 thereof,Having regard to the Agreement relating to the establishment of a Surveillance Authority and a Court of Justice, and in particular Article 5 (2) (b) and Protocol 1 thereof,Having regard to the Act referred to in point 50 of Chapter XII of Annex II to the EEA Agreement on the official control of foodstuffs (Council Directive 89/397/EEC), as adapted by way of Protocol 1 to the EEA Agreement, and in particular Article 14 (3) thereof,After consulting the EFTA Foodstuffs Committee assisting the EFTA Surveillance Authority,Whereas it is necessary with a view to the sound operation of the European Economic Area, to arrange for co-ordinated food inspection programmes within the EEA;Whereas such programmes place emphasis on compliance with the foodstuffs legislation in force under the EEA Agreement, the protection of public health, consumer interests and fair trade practices;Whereas simultaneous implementation of national programmes and co-ordinated programmes can provide information and experience on which to base future control activities;Whereas Liechtenstein shall comply with the provisions of the acts referred to in Chapter XII of Annex II to the EEA Agreement by 1 January 2000; whereas Liechtenstein was to do its utmost to comply with the provisions of the acts referred to in that Chapter by 1 January 1997; whereas therefore Liechtenstein is included in this Recommendation for 1997;Whereas the European Commission, in its Recommendation of 8 January 1997 concerning a co-ordinated programme for the official control of foodstuffs for 1997, has recommended the Member States of the European Union to apply a corresponding programme,HAS ADOPTED THIS RECOMMENDATION:It is recommended that during 1997 Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway should take samples and undertake laboratory analysis for:(a) Aflatoxins in spices;(b) Contamination of food products for persons suffering from food allergy or hypersensitivity;1. Although sampling rates have not been set, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway should ensure that the number of samples taken is sufficient to provide an overview of the subject under consideration in each EFTA State. Suggestions will be made for the methods of analysis.2. Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway should provide the information as requested following the format of the record sheets provided in the Annex to help enhance the comparability of results.3. Aflatoxins in spicesSpices, in particular pepper, chilli products, nutmeg and paprika powder, may contain aflatoxins in excessive amounts owing to different processing and storage conditions. Article 2 of the Act referred to in point 54f of Chapter XII of Annex II to the EEA Agreement laying down Community procedures for contaminants in food (Council Regulation (EEC) No 315/93) prohibits the selling of foodstuffs with excessive amounts of contaminants from the public health viewpoint and in particular at a toxicological level. All EFTA States have specific regulations for the aflatoxin content of this kind of product.The aim of this element of the programme is to study the extent to which the levels of aflatoxins in these products exceed national limits. This study will also identify the legal basis for rejection in Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway. Analytic methods should be capable of determining aflatoxin levels in the samples at least down to 1 ìg/kg.4. Contamination of foodstuffs for persons suffering from food allergy or hypersensitivityFood products labelled or otherwise marketed with claims implying absence of certain protein ingredients and so forth constitute a potential health risk to people suffering from food allergy or hypersensitivity, if they are contaminated with that particular ingredient. Even minute amounts may be fatal. Article 2 of the Act referred to in point 18 of Chapter XII of Annex II to the EEA Agreement on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to the labelling presentation and advertising of foodstuffs (Council Directive 79/112/EEC) provides that the labelling and the advertising must not be such as could mislead the purchaser to a material degree, particularly as to the composition of the foodstuff. The aim of this element of the programme is to survey the enforcement actions taken by Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway when contaminated food products are found on the market.ScopeAny type of food with claims implying absence of a particular ingredient: in view of the types of such food most commonly offered for sale in EFTA States, sampling should be restricted to products not containing milk/milk proteins, lactose, egg, or gluten.Project report: record sheetThe EFTA States should ensure that the number of contaminated food products and of producers/importers involved, together with information about enforcement action taken, are reported to the EFTA Surveillance Authority. If the kind of action taken is related to the amount of the contaminant found, action levels should also be reported.5. This Recommendation is addressed to Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway.Done at Brussels, 17 June 1997.For the EFTA Surveillance AuthorityThe PresidentKnut ALMESTADANNEX 1. AFLATOXINS IN SPICES >START OF GRAPHIC>Table 1.1PepperMember State: Total number of samples analysed:Total number of samples rejected:Number of samplesAverage value of positive samples(ìg/kg)Median value of positive samples(ìg/kg)Maximum value(ìg/kg)Limit or guide value for rejection(ìg/kg)Aflatoxin     Not detected 50 ìg/kgB1B2G1G2Legal basis for rejection:Method of analysis used (reference: literature, written standard, etc.; keyword description of the procedure; limits of detection and determination) (if different from the proposed method):Other details, indications, difficulties encountered:Origin of rejected samples, if known:>END OF GRAPHIC>>START OF GRAPHIC>Table 1.2Chilli and chilli powderMember State: Total number of samples analysed:Total number of samples rejected:Number of samplesAverage value of positive samples(ìg/kg)Median value of positive samples(ìg/kg)Maximum value(ìg/kg)Limit or guide value for rejection(ìg/kg)Aflatoxin     Not detected 50 ìg/kgB1B2G1G2Legal basis for rejection:Method of analysis used (reference: literature, written standard, etc.; keyword description of the procedure; limits of detection and determination) (if different from the proposed method):Other details, indications, difficulties encountered:Origin of rejected samples, if known:>END OF GRAPHIC>>START OF GRAPHIC>Table 1.3NutmegMember State: Total number of samples analysed:Total number of samples rejected:Number of samplesAverage value of positive samples(ìg/kg)Median value of positive samples(ìg/kg)Maximum value(ìg/kg)Limit or guide value for rejection(ìg/kg)Aflatoxin     Not detected 50 ìg/kgB1B2G1G2Legal basis for rejection:Method of analysis used (reference: literature, written standard, etc.; keyword description of the procedure; limits of detection and determination) (if different from the proposed method):Other details, indications, difficulties encountered:Origin of rejected samples, if known:>END OF GRAPHIC>>START OF GRAPHIC>Table 1.4Paprika powderMember State: Total number of samples analysed:Total number of samples rejected:Number of samplesAverage value of positive samples(ìg/kg)Median value of positive samples(ìg/kg)Maximum value(ìg/kg)Limit or guide value for rejection(ìg/kg)Aflatoxin     Not detected 50 ìg/kgB1B2G1G2Legal basis for rejection:Method of analysis used (reference: literature, written standard, etc.; keyword description of the procedure; limits of detection and determination) (if different from the proposed method):Other details, indications, difficulties encountered:Origin of rejected samples, if known:>END OF GRAPHIC>2. CONTAMINATION OF FOODSTUFFS FOR PERSONS SUFFERING FROM FOOD ALLERGY OR HYPERSENSITIVITY >START OF GRAPHIC>Table 2.1Investigation of products with claims implying absence of one or more of the following ingredients: milk/milk proteins, lactose, egg, or glutenMember State: Total number of products tested:Total number of producers/importers involved: Total number of products in which the abovementioned ingredients were found:Total number of producers/importers of products in which the abovementioned ingredients were found:Enforcement action taken when the abovementioned ingredients were foundClaimsNumber of productsNumber of producers/importersActions taken (*) Numbertestedcontaminatedmonitoredwith contaminated products     none     verbal warning     written warning     improved inhouse control required     sales prohibition     administrative penalty     court action     other(1)(2)(3)(4)(5)(6)(7)(8)milk/milk protein-freelactose-freeegg-freegluten-free(*)Comments on action taken and indication of action level (mg/kg) if the type of action taken is related to the amount of the contaminant found.(1)(2)(3)(4)(5)(6)(7)(8)>END OF GRAPHIC>>START OF GRAPHIC>Table 2.2Member State: Analytical methods usedMilk/milk proteinsLactoseEggGlutenFurther comments:>END OF GRAPHIC>


title: Council Recommendation of 8 July 2014 on the National Reform Programme 2014 of Spain and delivering a Council opinion on the Stability Programme of Spain, 2014

text:
               29.7.2014

               EN

               Official Journal of the European Union

               C 247/35

         COUNCIL RECOMMENDATION
   of 8 July 2014
   on the National Reform Programme 2014 of Spain and delivering a Council opinion on the Stability Programme of Spain, 2014
   2014/C 247/08
   THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
   Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Articles 121(2) and 148(4) thereof,
   Having regard to Council Regulation (EC) No 1466/97 of 7 July 1997 on the strengthening of the surveillance of budgetary positions and the surveillance and coordination of economic policies (1), and in particular Article 5(2) thereof,
   Having regard to Regulation (EU) No 1176/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 November 2011 on the prevention and correction of macroeconomic imbalances (2), and in particular Article 6(1) thereof,
   Having regard to the recommendation of the European Commission,
   Having regard to the resolutions of the European Parliament,
   Having regard to the conclusions of the European Council,
   Having regard to the opinion of the Employment Committee,
   Having regard to the opinion of the Economic and Financial Committee,
   Having regard to the opinion of the Social Protection Committee,
   Having regard to the opinion of the Economic Policy Committee,
   Whereas:

               (1)

               On 26 March 2010, the European Council agreed to the Commission's proposal to launch a new strategy for growth and jobs, Europe 2020, based on enhanced coordination of economic policies, which focuses on the key areas where action is needed to boost Europe's potential for sustainable growth and competitiveness.

               (2)

               On 13 July 2010, the Council, on the basis of the Commission's proposals, adopted a Recommendation on the broad guidelines for the economic policies of the Member States and the Union (2010 to 2014) and, on 21 October 2010, it adopted a decision on guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States (3), which together form the ‘integrated guidelines’. Member States were invited to take the integrated guidelines into account in their national economic and employment policies.

               (3)

               On 29 June 2012, the Member States' Heads of State or Government decided on a Compact for Growth and Jobs, providing a coherent framework for action at national, EU and euro area levels using all possible levers, instruments and policies. They decided on action to be taken at the level of the Member States, in particular expressing full commitment to achieving the objectives of the Europe 2020 strategy and to implementing the country‐specific recommendations.

               (4)

               On 9 July 2013, the Council adopted a Recommendation (4) on Spain's National Reform Programme for 2013 and delivered its opinion on Spain's updated Stability Programme for 2012‐2016. On 15 November 2013, in line with Regulation (EU) No 473/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council (5), the Commission presented its opinion on Spain's draft budgetary plan for 2014.

               (5)

               On 13 November 2013, the Commission adopted the Annual Growth Survey, marking the start of the 2014 European Semester for economic policy coordination. Also, on 13 November 2013, the Commission, on the basis of Regulation (EU) No 1176/2011, adopted the Alert Mechanism Report, in which it identified Spain as one of the Member States for which an in‐depth review would be carried out.

               (6)

               On 20 December 2013, the European Council endorsed the priorities for ensuring financial stability, fiscal consolidation and action to foster growth. It underscored the need to pursue differentiated, growth‐friendly fiscal consolidation, to restore normal lending conditions to the economy, to promote growth and competitiveness, to tackle unemployment and the social consequences of the crisis, and to modernise public administration.

               (7)

               On 5 March 2014, the Commission published the results of its in‐depth review for Spain, under Article 5 of Regulation (EU) No 1176/2011. The Commission's analysis leads it to conclude that Spain is experiencing macroeconomic imbalances which require specific monitoring and decisive policy action. In particular, in several areas, the adjustment of the imbalances identified last year as excessive has clearly advanced and the return to positive growth has reduced risks. However, the magnitude and inter‐related nature of the imbalances, in particular high domestic and external debt levels and high unemployment, mean that vulnerabilities are still present.

               (8)

               On 30 April 2014, Spain submitted its 2014 National Reform Programme and its 2014 Stability Programme. In order to take account of their interlinkages, the two programmes have been assessed at the same time.

               (9)

               The objective of the budgetary strategy outlined in the 2014 Stability Programme is to correct the excessive deficit by 2016 and reach the medium‐term objective in 2017. The Stability Programme confirms the medium‐term objective of a balanced budgetary position in structural terms, which is more stringent than what the Stability and Growth Pact requires. The Stability Programme plans to bring the deficit below 3 % of GDP in 2016, in line with the deadline set in the Council Recommendation of 21 June 2013 (6), and targets a deficit for 2014 below the one recommended (5,5 % of GDP versus 5,8 % of GDP). However, the annual improvement of the (recalculated) structural balance planned in the Stability Programme falls below the recommended effort as of 2014. For 2017, the plan envisages sufficient progress towards the medium‐term objective, although this may not be enough to reach it in the same year as declared in the Stability Programme. The Stability Programme projects the government debt ratio to peak in 2015 at 101,7 % of GDP and to start declining thereafter. Overall, the budgetary strategy outlined in the Stability Programme is only partly in line with the requirements of the Stability and Growth Pact. The macroeconomic scenario underpinning the budgetary projections in the Stability Programme, which has not been produced or endorsed by an independent body, is broadly plausible for 2014 and subject to downside risks in 2015 when compared with the Commission services 2014 spring forecast. For 2016‐2017, the GDP growth rates in the Stability Programme seem somewhat optimistic when seen against current estimates of the potential growth rate of the economy and the remaining post‐crisis economic adjustment needs.
               Therefore, the deficit and debt adjustment paths are also subject to downside risks. Moreover, concrete measures to support the headline deficit targets from 2015 onwards are not yet sufficiently specified, especially regarding the changes to tax legislation within the framework of the planned tax reform. Other risks relate to contingent liabilities and the yields of planned savings at local and regional levels. Based on the Commission forecast, the fiscal effort over 2013‐2014 falls short by 1,1 percentage points in terms of (corrected) change in the structural balance (although this figure is inflated by recent changes in the methodology for the estimation of potential output) and by 0,4 percentage points compared to the amount of measures estimated as necessary at the time of the recommendation under the Excessive Deficit Procedure. Based on its assessment of the Stability Programme and the Commission forecast, pursuant to Regulation (EC) No 1466/97, the Council is of the opinion that the measures underpinning the budgetary strategy need to be specified further and that additional efforts are needed to fully comply with the Council Recommendation under the Excessive Deficit Procedure.

               (10)

               On the fiscal structural side, there has been progress in the reporting of budgetary execution and in the application of corrective measures to non‐compliant administrative bodies. However, there remains scope for implementing additional enforcement mechanisms, set out in Spain's Budgetary Stability Organic Law, for non‐compliant regions. New measures have been taken to enforce an average period for payments to commercial suppliers of 30 days across all levels of government. An independent fiscal institution was set up by law in November 2013 and its president appointed in February 2014. However, the institution was not operational in time to assess the 2014 Stability Programme. The 2014 National Reform Programme also acknowledges the need to keep improving cost‐effectiveness in healthcare and pharmaceutical expenditure, e.g. by centralising purchasing of pharmaceutical products, revising the basket of services, developing digital clinical records, or strengthening management of health establishments. With most of the fiscal consolidation ahead planned to come from expenditure savings, a systematic review of expenditure at all government levels, would help to identify areas where savings could be generated in a growth‐friendly way while catering for the needs of the most vulnerable.

               (11)

               In 2013, Spain adopted new measures to address the debt bias in corporate taxation. During 2013, Spain also made some progress in improving tax compliance by intensifying the fight against tax fraud and undeclared work, but important challenges remain. In 2013 and 2014, Spain also introduced reductions in social security contributions for hiring young and new employees. Following the delivery of a comprehensive report on tax reform by an Expert Committee commissioned by the Government, the authorities plan to present concrete legislative proposals in the second quarter of 2014. According to the 2014 National Reform Programme, the proposals will aim at modernising the tax system, reduce the bias against employment, foster revenue collection, favour economic development, ensure market unity and fiscal neutrality and enhance the competitiveness of the Spanish economy while contributing to fiscal consolidation. The design and implementation of this reform will be important to future economic prospects and public finances.

               (12)

               Financial stability has been bolstered by the recapitalisation and restructuring of the banking sector and the thorough implementation of the July 2012 European Stability Mechanism (ESM) programme for the recapitalisation of financial institutions, completed on 22 January 2014. Yet, the financial sector in Spain is still faced with significant challenges that need to be carefully monitored and managed. Moreover, improvements in the funding conditions of banks are being passed on only gradually to the financing of SMEs. Going forward, it is important to ensure that credit continues to flow to viable sectors of the economy as the deleveraging of the private sector continues. The authorities have taken several measures to improve access of firms to bank and non‐bank financing and facilitate corporate debt restructuring, but further policy actions are needed.

               (13)

               The labour market is showing some signs of stabilisation and a mild recovery is expected in 2014 with growing employment and decreasing unemployment levels. However, with an annual average of 26,1 % in 2013, the unemployment rate remains very high. Of particular concern are the high youth unemployment rate of 54,3 %, and the significant peak of long‐term unemployment at 49,7 % of total unemployment in 2013, the latter with particularly high rates among older workers and low‐skilled workers. Available evaluations of the 2012 labour market reform conclude that the reform, together with the social partners' commitment to wage moderation in 2012‐2014, has helped to provide firms with greater internal flexibility and limit job losses, prioritising collective bargaining agreements at firm level and enhancing possibilities for firms to opt out of a collective agreement. The reform has also reduced the compensation costs for unfair dismissal and contributed to lowering the number of dismissals challenged in court, and introduced a new contract to promote stable hiring in SMEs. Further measures were introduced in 2013 and early 2014 to facilitate stable part‐time employment, and reduce temporarily social security contributions on new indefinite contracts. However, segmentation remains an important challenge for the Spanish labour market, the number of contract types remains high and the gap between severance costs for fixed‐term and indefinite contracts remains among the highest in the Union even after the reform.

               (14)

               Progress has been made in the reform of active labour market policies, including the approval of the annual Employment Plan (PAPE). However, action to modernise and reinforce the public employment service seems to be progressing slowly, which threatens to hinder the successful implementation of the new framework. The full operationalisation of the single job portal has suffered delays. Progress has been made in fostering cooperation with private placement agencies, but further efforts are needed.

               (15)

               The inadequate labour‐market relevance of education and training and the high proportion of unemployed without formal qualifications (35,2 %) contribute to the high youth unemployment rate, as well as to long‐term unemployment. The rate of young people not in employment, education or training remains higher than the EU average. The proportion of pupils and students leaving education and training early, although decreasing, also remains very high (23,5 %). Tertiary attainment rates are sustained, but vocational education and training and apprenticeship schemes are still under‐used and the proficiency of upper secondary vocational education and training graduates lags behind the EU average. Spain is also working on measures to encourage youth employment. The national 2013‐2016 Youth Employment and Entrepreneurship Strategy, presented in March 2013, is now being implemented, although some measures have yet to be put in place. Building on that Strategy, Spain has undertaken steps to fight youth unemployment, in line with the objectives of a youth guarantee. Some progress has been registered in measures to fight early school leaving and to promote dual vocational education and training, but full implementation and efficient use of funding remain crucial. On dual vocational training, continued coordination among all stakeholders, including decision makers and training providers at all government levels and employers, is needed to streamline the system, favour a better match of training to labour demands and guarantee the compatibility of dual vocational education and training models across regions.

               (16)

               Mainly as a result of the labour market situation, but also due to the limited effectiveness of social protection in reducing poverty, Spain is below the EU average as regards the main indicators measuring poverty and social exclusion, with children and young adults being particularly exposed. As a result of the crisis, Spain also witnessed one of the highest falls in household disposable income and one of the highest levels of income inequality in the Union. The key challenges are to simplify procedures for social assistance claimants and improve governance and inter‐institutional coordination at national, regional and local levels. The 2013‐2016 National Action Plan for Social Inclusion provides an appropriate policy framework for adapting active labour market policies to those further away from the labour market, tackling child poverty and improving the efficiency of family support services. Moreover, social assistance and benefits have limited redistributive effects across different groups at risk, suggesting poor targeting. In addition, limited coordination between employment and social services (including those at regional and local levels) and the administrative burden involved in accessing minimum income schemes hinders the smooth transition between social assistance and the reintegration into the labour market.

               (17)

               Spain made progress on structural reforms promoting growth and competitiveness broadly in line with the plans in the 2013 National Reform Programme. The law on the guarantee of market unity was adopted in December 2013 and its complex implementation is ongoing. The law on entrepreneurship adopted in autumn 2013 has also brought improvements to the framework for corporate insolvency and more flexible company forms, and as regards the rationalisation of support schemes for the internationalisation of firms. The use of the express licensing has been extended thus simplifying the opening of small‐scale retail outlets, and other measures taken to facilitate business licensing. However, secondary legislation to allow private limited companies to be created through one‐stop shops within the shorter deadlines set out in the September 2013 entrepreneurship law are still pending. Moreover, there is a case for the continuous review of regulatory barriers to company growth, including taxation, given Spain's gap vis‐à‐vis other euro area Member States as regards company size. The long‐awaited reform of professional services has been experiencing delays and needs to be speeded up. No measures have been taken to remove restrictions on the establishment of large‐scale retail premises.

               (18)

               The Spanish R&I system needs to increase the quality of its scientific outputs, foster public‐private co‐operation and facilitate the conversion of research and innovation into commercial products. In 2013, the Government adopted a national strategy for science, technology and innovation, which still needs to be backed by public funding. Moreover, the creation of the new State Research Agency, which is tasked with the efficient management of public R&D investment, is pending.

               (19)

               Significant steps have been taken to address the electricity tariff deficit, especially by reducing the system's costs, although the exact impact of the reform, in particular on renewables, is not yet fully clear. The Government is exploring ways to minimise negative spillover effects on public finances from insolvent toll motorways. The authorities established a database containing economic, environmental, traffic‐related and other indicators supporting analysis prior to investment in infrastructure, but have not yet set up an independent body to help assess future major infrastructure projects. Effective competition in railway passenger and freight services is still prevented by technical and legal obstacles, hampering the efficient use of the extensive infrastructure stock.

               (20)

               The reform of public administration is advancing. A reform of local public administration was passed in December 2013 and the implementation of the expert's committee on public administration reform is ongoing and will continue throughout 2014‐2015. Judicial reform is at various stages of completion and/or implementation and needs to be completed. Recent efforts in the area of tackling corruption include the law on transparency, public access to information and good governance, adopted in December 2013, as well as two draft bills on supervision of party funding and accountability of high‐ranking officials. The 2012‐2014 National Plan against Undeclared Work and Social Security Fraud (Plan Nacional de Lucha contra el Empleo Irregular y el Fraude a la Seguridad Social) is being implemented. Spain has also extended its network of international agreements to exchange information relevant for tax assessments and launched a project with private firms to study potential improvements in the management of the benefits system.

               (21)

               In the context of the European Semester, the Commission has carried out a comprehensive analysis of Spain's economic policy. It has assessed the National Reform Programme and the Stability Programme. It has taken into account not only their relevance for sustainable fiscal and socio‐economic policy in Spain but also their compliance with EU rules and guidance, given the need to reinforce the overall economic governance of the Union by providing EU‐level input into future national decisions. Its recommendations under the European Semester are reflected in recommendations (1) to (8) below.

               (22)

               In the light of this assessment, the Council has examined the Stability Programme, and its opinion (7) is reflected in particular in recommendation (1) below.

               (23)

               In the light of the Commission's in‐depth review and this assessment, the Council has examined the National Reform Programme and the Stability Programme. Its recommendations under Article 6 of Regulation (EU) No 1176/2011 are reflected in recommendations (1), (2), (3), (4), (6), (7) and (8) below.

               (24)

               In the context of the European Semester, the Commission has also carried out an analysis of the economic policy of the euro area as a whole. On this basis, the Council has issued specific recommendations addressed to the Member States whose currency is the euro (8). As a country whose currency is the euro, Spain should also ensure the full and timely implementation of those recommendations,

         HEREBY RECOMMENDS that Spain take action within the period 2014‐2015 to:

               1.

               Reinforce the budgetary strategy as of 2014, in particular by fully specifying the underlying measures for the year 2015 and beyond, to ensure the correction of the excessive deficit in a sustainable manner by 2016 through achieving the structural adjustment effort specified in the Council Recommendation under the Excessive Deficit Procedure. A durable correction of the fiscal imbalances requires a credible implementation of ambitious structural reforms to increase the adjustment capacity and boost growth and employment. After achieving the correction of the excessive deficit, pursue a structural adjustment towards the medium‐term objective of at least 0,5 % each year, and more in good economic conditions or if needed to ensure that the debt rule is met in order to put the high general government debt ratio on a sustained downward path. Ensure that the new independent fiscal authority becomes fully operational as soon as possible and ensure a full implementation of the preventive, corrective and enforcement measures in the Budgetary Stability Organic Law at all levels of government, including on the elimination of public sector commercial arrears. Carry out by February 2015 a systematic review of expenditure at all levels of government to underpin the efficiency and quality of public spending going forward. Continue to increase the cost‐effectiveness of the healthcare sector, in particular by further rationalising pharmaceutical spending, including in hospitals and strengthening coordination across types of care, while maintaining accessibility for vulnerable groups. Adopt by the end of 2014 a comprehensive tax reform to make the tax system simpler and more conducive to growth and job creation, preservation of the environment and stability of revenues.
               To that end, shift revenues towards less distortive taxes, such as consumption, environmental (e.g. on motor fuels) and recurrent property taxes; remove inefficient personal and corporate income tax expenditures; consider lowering employers' social security contributions, in particular for low‐wage jobs; continue to tackle the debt bias in corporate taxation; take measures to avoid that taxation hinders the smooth functioning of Spain's internal market. Step up the fight against tax evasion.

               2.

               Complete the reform of the saving banks sector, as regards the adoption of secondary legislation and complete the restructuring of state‐owned savings banks in order to accelerate their full recovery and facilitate their return to private ownership. Promote banks' efforts to sustain strong capital ratios, monitor the asset management company Sareb's activity in order to ensure timely asset disposal while minimising the cost to the taxpayer. Complete the ongoing measures to widen SMEs access to finance, in particular by finalising the ongoing measures to improve non‐bank financial intermediation. Remove remaining bottlenecks in the corporate insolvency framework, in particular by enhancing the expertise of insolvency administrators and the capacity of the judicial system to handle insolvency cases, and develop a permanent framework for personal insolvency, paying due attention to balanced creditor/borrower rights and financial stability considerations.

               3.

               Pursue new measures to reduce labour market segmentation to favour sustainable, quality jobs, for instance through reducing the number of contract types and ensuring a balanced access to severance rights. Continue regular monitoring of the labour market reforms. Promote real wage developments consistent with the objective of creating jobs. Strengthen the job‐search requirement in unemployment benefits. Enhance the effectiveness and targeting of active labour market policies, including hiring subsidies, particularly for those facing more difficulties in accessing employment. Reinforce the coordination between labour market and education and training policies. Accelerate the modernisation of public employment services to ensure effective personalised counselling, adequate training and job‐matching, with special focus on the long‐term unemployed. Ensure the effective application of public‐private cooperation in placement services before the end of 2014, and monitor the quality of services provided. Ensure the effective functioning of the Single Job Portal and combine it with further measures to support labour mobility.

               4.

               Implement the 2013‐2016 Youth Entrepreneurship and Employment Strategy and evaluate its effectiveness. Provide good quality offers of employment, apprenticeships and traineeships for young people and improve the outreach to non‐registered unemployed young people, in line with the objectives of a youth guarantee. Effectively implement the new educational schemes to increase the quality of primary and secondary education. Enhance guidance and support for groups at risk of early school leaving. Increase the labour‐market relevance of vocational education and training and of higher education, in particular by enhancing the cooperation with employers and supporting the training of trainers and tutors.

               5.

               Implement the 2013‐2016 National Action Plan on Social Inclusion and assess its effectiveness covering the full range of its objectives. Strengthen administrative capacity and coordination between employment and social services in order to provide integrated pathways to support those at risk, and boost, among the Public Administrations responsible for the minimum income schemes, streamlined procedures to support transitions between minimum income schemes and the labour market. Improve the targeting of family support schemes and quality services favouring low‐income households with children, to ensure the progressivity and effectiveness of social transfers.

               6.

               Ensure an ambitious and swift implementation of Law No 20/2013 on Market Unity at all levels of administration. Adopt an ambitious reform of professional services and of professional associations by the end of 2014, defining the professions requiring registration in a professional organisation, and the transparency and accountability of professional bodies, opening up unjustifiably reserved activities and safeguarding market unity in the access to and exercise of professional services in Spain. Further reduce the time, cost and number of procedures required for setting up an operating business. Address unjustified restrictions to the establishment of large‐scale retail premises, in particular through a revision of existing regional planning regulations. Identify sources of financing for the new national strategy for science, technology and innovation and make operational the new State Research Agency.

               7.

               Following the reform of 2013, ensure the effective elimination of deficit in the electricity system as of 2014, including by taking further structural measures if needed. Address the problem of insolvent toll motorways so as to minimise costs for the State. Set up an independent body to contribute to the assessment of future major infrastructure projects by the end of 2014. Take measures to ensure effective competition in freight and passenger rail services.

               8.

               Implement at all government levels the recommendations of the committee for the reform of the public administration. Strengthen control mechanisms and increase the transparency of administrative decisions, in particular at regional and local levels. Complete and monitor closely the ongoing measures to fight against the shadow economy and undeclared work. Adopt pending reforms on the structure of the judiciary and on the judicial map and ensure implementation of adopted reforms.

      Done at Brussels, 8 July 2014.

            For the Council

            The President

         P. C. PADOAN

      (1)  OJ L 209, 2.8.1997, p. 1.

      (2)  OJ L 306, 23.11.2011, p. 25.

      (3)  Maintained for 2014 by Council Decision 2014/322/EU of 6 May 2014 on guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States for 2014 (OJ L 165, 4.6.2014, p. 49).

      (4)  OJ C 217, 30.7.2013, p. 81.

      (5)  Regulation (EU) No 473/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 21 May 2013 on common provisions for monitoring and assessing draft budgetary plans and ensuring the correction of excessive deficit of the Member States in the euro area (OJ L 140, 27.5.2013, p.11).

      (6)  Council Recommendation of 21 June 2013 with a view to bringing an end to the situation of an excessive government deficit in Spain (OJ C 180, 26.06.2013, p. 4).

      (7)  Under Article 5(2) of Regulation (EC) No 1466/97.

      (8)  See page 141 of the current Official Journal.


title: Commission Recommendation No 931/78/ECSC of 28 April 1978 providing for suspension of provisional anti- dumping duties established in relation to imports of steel products originating in Spain

text:
 4 . 5 . 78                                Official Journal of the European Communities                      No L 120/21
                                 COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION No 931 / 78 / ECSC
                                                          of 28 April 1978
               providing (or suspension of provisional anti-dumping duties established in rela
                                   tion to imports of steel products originating in Spain
 THE COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN                                       HAS ADOPTED THIS RECOMMENDATION :
 COMMUNITIES,
                                                                                Article 1
 Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European
 Coal and Steel Community, and in particular Article                 The application of provisional anti-dumping duties
 74 thereof,                                                         established by Commission recommendations No
                                                                      1 18 /78 / ECSC, No 159 / 78 / ECSC and No   160 / 78 /
 Having regard to Commission recommendation                           ECSC in relation to imports of steel products origi
 77/329/ ECSC of 15 April 1977 on protection against                  nating in Spain is suspended from the date of the
 dumping or the granting of bounties or subsidies by                 entry into force of this recommendation .
 countries which are not members of the European                     This recommendation does not prejudice the decision
 Coal and Steel Community ('), as amended by recom                  which the Commission may take subsequently with
 mendation No 3004/77/ ECSC (2), and in particular                   respect to the treatment to be accorded to the sums
 Articles 15 and 19 thereof,
                                                                     guaranteed up to this date by way of provisional
                                                                     duties .
 Having heard the opinions expressed within the Advi
 sory Committee provided for by recommendation                       No other anti-dumping duty nor other similar
 77/329 / ECSC,                                                      measures will be applied to imports of steel products
 Whereas the Commission has established, by recom                   falling under the ECSC Treaty and originating in
 mendations No 1 18/78/ ECSC (3), No 159/78/ ECSC (4)                Spain unless a counter recommendation is made by
                                                                     the Commission .
 and No 160/78/ ECSC (5), provisional anti-dumping
 duties in relation to imports of steel products origi                                     Article 2
 nating in Spain ;
                                                                     This recommendation is addressed to the Member
 Whereas since that time certain arrangements have                   States. It will enter into force in respect of each
 been made between the Community and the Spanish                     Member State from the date of its publication in the
 Government with respect to trade in steel products ;                 Official Journal of the European Communities.
Whereas these arrangements, which the Commission
 deems reasonable, allow the further application of                  Done at Brussels, 28 April 1978 .
 provisional anti-dumping duties to be suspended,
                                                                                For the Commission
without prejudice however to the subsequent decision
 of the Commission with respect to the treatment to be                                         Étienne DAVIGNON
accorded to the amounts guaranteed by way of provi
sional duty,                                                                              Member of the Commission
(')  OJ  No L 1 14, 5. 5. 1977, p.    6.
(2 ) OJ  No L 352, 31 . 12. 1977,     p. 13.
(J)  OJ  No L 19, 24. 1 . 1978, p.    3.
(4 ) OJ  No L 23 , 28 . 1 . 1978 , p. 31 .
(5)  OJ  No L 23, 28 . 1 . 1978 , p.  33 .


/* 71/302/EEC: Commission Recommendation of 28 July 1971 to the Member States on the development and use of numerical-control machine tools in the Member States of the European Communities */