I propose to take Questions Nos. 14 and 33 together.
European Communities Directive 85/337/EEC provides for the carrying out of environmental impact studies for certain types of public and private development projects. Article 4.2 of the directive requires that projects of the classes listed in its second annex be subjected to an assessment of their environmental effects where member states consider that their characteristics so require. Reclamation of land from the sea is listed in that annex.
Member states are required to comply with the terms of the directive by 3 July 1988 and proposals for giving effect to its requirements are being developed in my Department. The arrangements for implementing the directive will provide, in compliance with Article 4.2 thereof, for, the carrying out of environmental impact assessments for those types of projects mentioned in Annex II judged likely to have significant effects on the environment. The question of requiring the carrying out of environmental impact assessments in connection with reclamation of land from the sea will be considered in that context.