Brussels, 28/12/2005 (Agence Europe) - The European Commission has launched infringement proceedings against Italy and Germany and drooped proceedings against France, Belgium, Italy and Greece in other cases.
Italy has been sent a reasoned opinion (the second stage in infringement proceedings) to modify the legal framework relating to the acquisition of holdings in, and the establishment of, retail pharmacies. In the Commission's view, Italian legal provisions are in breach of the right of establishment and the free movement of capital in the European Union. In addition, the Commission has requested that Germany amend its national legislation on roadworthiness testing centres as it is not compatible with the right of establishment. Both countries now have two months to respond, failing which the Commission may decide to take them to the Court of Justice.
The Commission has also decided to close a series of cases involving national laws that have been brought into line with EU law on the right of establishment and the free movement of services. These relate to the trade-fair and exhibition sector in Italy, privileged access to information for certain broadcasters in Belgium, media ownership in Greece and aerial photography in France.