91997E1316

WRITTEN QUESTION E-1316/97 by Mark Watts (PSE) to the Commission (11 April 1997)

Subject: European monetary laws

In cases where EU nationals sell property in another Member State but the state retains a proportion of the proceeds against unpaid taxes and in cases where it is confirmed that no taxes are outstanding, what legal redress does the citizen have against the state and/or to ensure a prompt repayment of money due?

Answer given by Mr Monti on behalf of the Commission (10 June 1997)

The Commission would make the general observation that, since tax administration is a matter for the Member States, a taxpayer challenging the imposition of tax or wishing to obtain a tax refund must avail himself of the relevant means of redress under domestic law.

However, if a particular case is brought to the Honourable Member's attention, the Commission is prepared to investigate provided that the necessary details are sent to it.