Brussels, 16/07/2008 (Agence Europe) - On Wednesday 16 July, the European Commission decided to launch an investigation into aid granted by the French authorities to Sernam, the former road and rail transport services operator of France's national railway company (SNCF). The investigation will focus on the implementation by France of a decision taken by the Commission in 2004, authorising aid of €503 million to Sernam but requiring the repayment of €41 million which the company had already received. According to a press release, there have been several complaints about the non-payment of the sum. Complaints also allege that Sernam was not sold in accordance with the sales conditions. (A.B./transl.rh)