Brussels, 17/10/2007 (Agence Europe) - A spokesman said on Wednesday that the European Commission was hopeful that an amicable solution could be found with Austria over its quota system for foreign students at university, particularly in the faculties of medicine. The Commission has opened infringement proceedings against Austria, which appears to be blocking the entry of foreign students to some of its universities, thereby violating the principle of the free movement of persons. In its response, Austria explained that, without a filter system, the massive influx of German students into faculties of medicine would endanger the Austrian health system. After graduating, the students, in most cases, return to their country of origin, something that could, in five or six years' time, lead to a serious shortage of doctors in Austria, said Austrian Chancellor Alfred Gusenbauer. The Commission feels, on first sight, that Austria has grounds for concern, but cannot, at this point, close proceedings since it has yet to receive evidence that there is, indeed, a risk that the Austrian health system could be adversely affected. Austria must also ensure that the measures it has taken do not contravene European rules on the movement of persons. (I.L.)