THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES,

Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Economic Community, and in particular Article 100a thereof,

Having regard to the proposal from the Commission1,

In cooperation with the European Parliament2,

Having regard to the opinion of the Economic and Social Committee3,

Whereas it is important to adopt measures with the aim of progressively establishing the internal market over a period expiring on 31 December 1992; whereas the internal market shall comprise an area without internal frontiers in which the free movement of goods, persons, services and capital is ensured;

Whereas the differences in rules adopted by the Member States may hinder the functioning of the common market and whereas it is necessary to lay down a procedure for the adoption of harmonized Community rules;

Whereas contaminants may enter into food at any stage from production to consumption;

Whereas it is essential, in the interest of public health protection, to keep these contaminants at levels which are toxicologically acceptable;

Whereas further elimination must be carried out whenever it is achievable through good working practices; whereas compliance with such good practices can be efficiently monitored by public authorities, given the vocational traiing and experience of their agents;

Whereas this Regulation must apply without prejudice to the provisions adopted in the context of more specific Community rules;

Whereas it is appropriate in terms of health protection to encourage the search for a comprehensive approach to the question of contaminants in food;

Whereas the Scientific Committee for Food set up by Decision 74/234/EEC4 must be consulted on all questions which may have an effect on public health,

HAS ADOPTED THIS REGULATION: