Brussels, 19/05/2011 (Agence Europe) - Member states seem to be coming closer to a compromise on the question of allocating revenue generated by the Eurovignette - one of the most controversial points in the draft directive aimed at establishing the conditions necessary for allowing the internalisation of certain external transport costs (see EUROPE 10359). The draft compromise prepared by the Hungarian Presidency of the EU Council preserves member state freedom when it comes to the allocation of revenue from taxable levies for covering external transport costs (air and noise pollution). It nonetheless makes the use of such proceeds subject to a series of non-binding recommendations, in order to make transport more sustainable. The text does, however, make it an obligation to allocate revenue from the accumulation of mark-ups applicable in mountainous regions, allowed in cases of heavily polluting heavy goods vehicles. This revenue should, as an obligation, be allocated to the transport sector. Member states have until Thursday evening to confirm, in silent procedure, their stances regarding the draft compromise. At this stage, the agreement seems to be close at hand, with a very slim majority - the opposition of one more delegation would compromise adoption. If approved, the text will be presented on 23 May to the informal trilogue with the European Parliament with a view to a second reading agreement. (A.By./transl.jl)