Brussels, 03/02/2006 (Agence Europe) - The question of whether competitiveness and inclusion can be reconciled with new technologies and innovation exercised the participants at a seminar organised on 25 January by Friends of Europe. Without allowing a categorical answer, the exchanges of view showed that, while less regulation was needed, the market could not do everything. Andrew Rashbass of the Economist was of the opinion that only deregulation could allow the benefits of innovation, but it had to be shown that growth benefited everyone and allowed the State to assure functions that were essential for society. Brad Smith, Microsoft's General Counsel, said that State intervention was necessary where the market was not enough. In a general sense, he said, only the State can intervene in certain areas, principally education. John Monks, ETUC Secretary General, said that for the young, intelligent and well-educated today's world is very good, but in some cases, “a little bit of regulation can be necessary” to protect the most vulnerable. In every society, the gap between rich and poor was widening, said Mr Monks.