Strasbourg, 07/09/2001 (Agence Europe) - On Thursday, the European Parliament approved with a large majority (409 to 54, with 25 abstentions) but with a certain number of amendments the Commission proposal aimed at reforming competition policy rules relating to restrictive agreements, decisions and concerted practices as well as abuse of dominant market position.
The aim of the reform proposed by the Commission is twofold. On one hand, it is a matter of easing the situation of the European Executive personnel so that it can focus on the more serious infringements and ensure better application of competition rules, which implies a movement of decentralisation towards national administrations. On the other hand, it means reducing bureaucratic obstacles and administrative constraints imposed on the world of business.
Although Thursday's vote showed massive support by MEPs for this reform, the MEPs nonetheless adopted almost by unanimity the amendments proposed in the report by Jonathan Evans, British Conservative (see EUROPE of 3 and 4 September, p.11). These amendments show the concern felt by MEPs concerning the risks of legislative imprecision, they seek to introduce an element of Community harmonisation concerning fines, constraints and other sanctions, and aim to restrict the right to interview personnel during an inquiry so as not to endanger the individual position of workers within the company. The Parliament also declined the Commission's proposal in favour of a registration system that would replace the current system for notification and authorisation, considering that the usefulness of the new system had not been proved. Detailed amendments, relating to investment rules, were also approved.
Some of the amendments adopted could cause concern within the relevant Commission services. We recall, however, that the Parliament is only consulted on this proposal. EUROPE will come back to the vote in greater detail.