Article 16

Veterinary experts from the Commission may, in cooperation with the competent authorities of the Member States and third countries, make on-the-spot checks in so far as that is indispensable for ensuring uniform application of this Directive.

The country of collection within whose territory a check is being carried out shall give all necessary assistance to the experts in carrying out their duties. The Commission shall inform the country of collection concerned of the results of the investigation.

The country of collection concerned shall take any measures which may prove necessary to take account of the results of the investigation. If the country of collection does not take those measures, the Commission may, after the situation has been examined by the Standing Veterinary Committee, have recourse to the provisions of the fourth subparagraph of Article 5 (2) and 9 (1).

The general provisions for implementing this Article, especially as regards the frequency and method of carrying out the checks referred to in the first subparagraph of paragraph 1, shall be laid down in accordance with F1the procedure referred to in Article 18(2).