WRITTEN QUESTION No. 3940/97 by Maren GÜNTHER to the Commission. Long-term and structural support for cultural networks in the field of the performing arts
2. 10. 98 EN Official Journal of the European Communities C 304/5 (98/C 304/06) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3940/97 by Maren Gu¤nther (PPE) to the Commission (12 December 1997) Subject: Long-term and structural support for cultural networks in the field of the performing arts In the context of the Kaleidoscope programme, the Commission supports European cultural networks as pilot projects. There is, however, as yet no continuing, structural support to enable the networks to make long-term plans for the work they are intended to carry out. Does the Commission intend to follow the recommendations of Parliamentís Committee on Culture and in 1. future provide longer-term and structural support for the networks? Do the plans for the Kaleidoscope programme in 1998 include one or more European cultural networks in 2. the area of the performing arts? Answer given by Mr Oreja on behalf of the Commission (6 February 1998) The Commission would point out that the duration of the Communityís Kaleidoscope programme is restricted to three years and that 1998 is the last year. The budget restraints imposed on the Kaleidoscope programme (annexed to European Parliament and Council Decision No 719/96/EC of 29 March 1996 establishing a programme to support artistic and cultural activities having a European dimension) (1) are such that no structural assistance can be granted for cultural networks as such, but only for the projects and measures organised by them. This means that, given the limited duration of the programme and the principle of annuality of the Community budget, no long-term Community support can be granted for the time being. The Commission would, however, point out that priority in selection is given to projects involving long-term cooperation and that many quality networks have received support under the Kaleidoscope programme for several years in succession. A notable example is the Germinationsí network, which deals with the visual arts, an area in which the Honourable Member takes a particular interest. Structural support may also be provided under other Community policies and programmes and from other parts of the budget, particularly Part A. Support measures for trans-European structures under heading A-3020 is just one example. As regards the outlook for support for cultural networks in 1998, the Commission is currently registering and examining the applications submitted for the Kaleidoscope programme. The 1998 results are due to be announced in April. In addition to the possibilities referred to above, certain limited opportunities for funding will be available to networks as a result of the call for proposals which the Commission is due to issue by the end of the year concerning Community support for cultural development projects under budget heading B3-2003. (1) OJ L 99, 20. 4. 1996. (98/C 304/07) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3981/97 by Angela Billingham (PSE) to the Commission (14 January 1998) Subject: Comparative analysis of national minimum wages in Europe Could the European Commission inform me whether there is any regular survey or comparative analysis of national minimum wages in the European Union? Has the European Commission honoured its commitment in its 1993 Opinion on an equitable wage in which it called for action to improve transparency with regards to wages?