WRITTEN QUESTION E-2340/99 by Alexandros Alavanos (GUE/NGL) to the Commission. Protection of the Elgin Marbles.
18. 7. 2000 EN Official Journal of the European Communities C 203 E/165 the telecommunications networks (whether mobile or fixed) if this is necessary to ensure the overall competitiveness of the market and the development of innovative new services. The national authorities, with their detailed knowledge of the situation in the telecommunications markets which they oversee, may therefore determine the precise conditions on which access to mobile networks should be required, provided that these are consistent with the principles enshrined in the EC Treaty, particularly the competition rules, and the regulatory framework established at Community level. These conditions would only be contrary to the competition rules if it could be shown that the relevant requirements would limit the ability of non-dominant network operators to compete, for example by preventing them from benefiting from the advantages of vertical integration of network and service provision. The Commission has encouraged the Member States to consult their national competition authorities on such measures. The Commission recognises that the pricing of access is critical and should provide the necessary incentives in the medium and longer term for facility owners to undertake future infrastructure investment. As regards the distinction between mobile network operators and service providers, Community law currently allows Member States to apply different licensing conditions. However, they should ensure that any distinction does not lead to market distortions. (1) COM(1999) 539 final. (2) OJ L 199, 26. 7. 1997. (2000/C 203 E/212) WRITTEN QUESTION E-2340/99 by Alexandros Alavanos (GUE/NGL) to the Commission (13 December 1999) Subject: Protection of the Elgin Marbles For a fee, the British Museum in London makes available to áwealthy and serious sponsorsí the room containing the Elgin Marbles for official banquets, requiring payment of security against possible damage. The Elgin Marbles however are known to belong to the Parthenon which has been designated by Unesco as part of the world heritage. Since by this practice the British Museum is failing to show the respect due to a part of the world heritage and is actually placing the Marbles in danger, as evidenced by the security required by the British Museum against possible damage, what steps will the Commission take to meet its obligations under Article 128 of the EU Treaty requiring it to help in the áconservation and safeguarding of cultural heritage of European significanceí with a view to protecting the Elgin Marbles in the British Museum? Answer given by Mrs Reding on behalf of the Commission (13 January 2000) Article 151 (ex-Article 128) of the EC Treaty gives the Community the power to encourage cooperation in the area of culture. The question raised by the Honourable Member is outside the Communityís field of competence but, by virtue of the principle of subsidiarity, is the exclusive responsibility of the Member States