10/11/2003 (Agence Europe) - General opposition from the German members of the EPP-ED group at the European Parliament following the introduction by Commissioner Anna Diamantopoulou of a draft directive on equality between men and women in the supply of goods and services (see EUROPE of 6 November, p.11). Christa Klass commented that the proposed legislation ignores certain differences between the sexes (longer life expectancy for women, higher road accident rate for men) and is of little service to women because its impact would end up reducing support in women's legitimate aspirations. The MEP warned that the draft directive would no doubt be amended by the Council, which has to decide on it by unanimous voting. Ingo Schmitt cited the complaints by pregnant or part-time women workers who are refused credit, asking who on a personal le! vel would not rather lend money to people working full-time. He concluded that the outcome would be insurance companies adjusting their lowest premiums in the direction of the highest premiums, adding that senseless legislation would cost us dear.