Brussels, 21/08/2003 (Agence Europe) - Speaking through the voice of competition spokesperson Amelia Torres, the European Commission has confirmed that the French government had given it formal notice last Friday of the rescue plan foreseen for the Alstom group, which has debts of up to EUR 1.125 billion. "The dossier is being looked at quickly before coming to a decision", she said. The Commission has two months in which to give its stance. After this time, it may decide to open a formal inquiry if it doubts the plan envisaged is conform. We recall that France is contemplating a 31.5% participation in the Alstom group through a capital increase of EUR 600 million. The State would thus become the group's largest shareholder. See EUROPE of 6 August, p.2.