91997E3488

WRITTEN QUESTION E-3488/97 by Richard Howitt (PSE) to the Commission (3 November 1997)

Subject: Essex Returners Unit - Failure of Bid to DG V

Can the Commission confirm that it has received a formal complaint from the Essex Returners Unit regarding the alleged mishandling by the Commission of its project bid 97/D4/UK/171-2, including the allocation of an incorrect project reference and a number of other errors?

Can the Commission confirm that it will provide a full and detailed report on why the bid failed and confirm the date when this will be provided?

Given the apparent extenuating circumstances, can the Commission identify alternative budget lines which may be available to contribute towards the project's costs?

Answer given by Mr Flynn on behalf of the Commission (15 December 1997)

The Commission did receive a complaint from the Essex Returners Unit about the rejection of its application for a grant within the framework of the European year against racism. A detailed explanation of the reasons for the Commission's decision was sent to the Essex Returners Unit on 31 July 1997.

The Commission rejects the suggestion that this application was in any way mishandled. It was rejected for lack of compliance with a number of formal and qualitative criteria, which were clearly stipulated in all documents relating to applications for funding within the framework of the European year. The applicant has been added to the Commission's mailing list and will be informed of any other funding opportunities for actions to combat racism.