91999E2054

WRITTEN QUESTION E-2054/99

by Gérard Caudron (PSE) to the Commission

(3 November 1999)

Subject: Abolition of European aid payments for the distribution of milk in schools

Reports are widespread of the Commission decision reducing, then abolishing, Community subsidies for the distribution of milk in schools.

According to child nutrition specialists milk is an essential food for child development. The distribution of milk in schools is, moreover, still useful today in reaching certain sectors of the population who do not enjoy a balanced diet.

This plan is disturbing in terms of both agriculture and public health.

As the Agriculture Council on 14 and 15 June 1999 took the view that milk consumption should be encouraged because of its nutritional value, in particular for children and young people, why is the Commission taking a decision that runs counter to the Council's opinion?

At a time when public health has just been given the status of a horizontal Community policy under the Treaty of Amsterdam, how can the Commission risk endangering the health of European children who benefit from this nutritional supplement in schools?

Can the Commission therefore deny the information that has been published and reassure the citizens of Europe?

Joint answer to Written Questions E-2029/99 and E-2054/99 given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

(9 December 1999)

The Commission is collecting the information it needs to answer the question. It will communicate its findings as soon as possible.