asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware of the situation regarding the opening of containers in transit through EEC member states; if he proposes to make representations to the United Kingdom Government in the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Opening of Containers in Transit.
264.
I presume that the Deputy is referring to goods carried in containers between points situated in the Community under the Community transit procedure laid down in Council Regulation (EEC) No. 222/77 of 13 December 1976 (on Community transit).
This Community Regulation, which applies in all member states, provides that goods carried under the Community transit procedure shall not be inspected by the customs authorities unless some irregularity is suspected which could result in abuse.
I am not aware that containers of goods carried under the Community transit procedure are opened otherwise than in accordance with the relevant Community legislation. Consequently, the question of making representations to the United Kingdom Government does not arise.