Introductory text

THE COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES,

Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Community,

Having regard to Council Regulation (EC) No 1255/1999 of 17 May 1999 on the common organisation of the market in milk and milk products^f1, and in particular Article 15 thereof,

Whereas:

Commission Regulation (EEC) No 2191/81^f2 provides for the grant of aid for the purchase of butter by non-profit making institutions and organisations. In view of the current situation on the butter market, the level of sales under that Regulation, the reduction in the butter intervention price and the subsequent reduction of aid levels in other butter support schemes, the aid amount should be reduced.

The Management Committee for Milk and Milk Products has not delivered an opinion within the time limit set by its Chairman,

HAS ADOPTED THIS REGULATION: