- I should like to ask the President of the Commission about the Essen Summit Meeting.

Many Members here feel that Essen will be a watershed for many of the initiatives we have been trying to pursue in the course of the last year. During the last few days we have talked to Commissioner Christophersen about the financing for the large European infrastructure programmes. Is the President of the Commission confident that the heads of government will approve a proper financing package for these large infrastructure projects? If they do not approve that package, what will happen to the trans-European network programme? Will it be cancelled? Will some of the ideas have to be shelved and who will take the responsibility?

Finally, may I ask the President of the Commission if he still feels that 1997 is the likely date for economic and monetary union?