Seeds: common organisation of the market (CMO) (repeal. Regulations (EEC) Nos 2358/71 and 1674/72)

PURPOSE : to repeal and modify Regulation 2358/71/EEC following the reform in the seeds sector established by Regulation 1782/2003/EC.

LEGISLATIVE ACT : Council Regulation 1947/2005/EC on the common organisation of the market in seeds and repealing Regulations 2358/71/EEC and 1674/72/EEC.

CONTENT : The Council unanimously adopted a Regulation on the common organisation of the market in seeds. The main provisions of this Regulation are as follows:

-Council Regulation 2358/71/EEC on the common organisation of the market in seeds has been substantially amended several times, particularly by Council Regulation 1782/2003/EC. In the interests of clarity, Regulation 2358/71/EEC is repealed and replaced by a new Regulation.

- The provisions of Council Regulation 1674/72/EEC laying down general rules for granting and financing aid for seed were incorporated into the implementing rules provided for in Chapter 10 of Commission Regulation 1973/2004/EC. Council Regulation 1674/72/EEC is therefore be repealed.

- In order to monitor the volume of trade in seeds with third countries, the Regulation makes provision for an import licence scheme with the lodging of a security to ensure that the transactions for which such licences are requested are effected.

- Finland may, subject to authorisation by the Commission, grant aid respectively for certain quantities of seeds and for certain quantities of cereal seed produced solely in Finland, because of its specific climatic conditions. Prior to 1 January 2006, the Commission shall transmit to the Council, on the basis of the information supplied in due time by Finland, a report on the results of the aid authorised, accompanied by the necessary proposals.

ENTRY INTO FORCE : 06/12/2005

DATE OF APPLICATION : 01/07/2006.