Brussels, 14/01/2009 (Agence Europe) - On Wednesday 14 January, the European Parliament adopted the report by German Liberal MEP Alexander Graf Lambsdorff by 597 votes to 69, with 33 abstentions, thereby bringing an end to scrutiny of the draft directive on public contracts in defence and security. This text and the directive on intra-Community trade in defence-related products (approved in December 2008) were brought forward over a year ago by Commission Vice-President Günter Verheugen and Commissioner Charlie McCreevy and form a package, the aim of which is to consolidate the market and the defence industrial base in Europe. Compromise was finally reached on the two texts, which had been challenged by a number of member states fearful of European Commission interference in their defence powers, and given first reading backing by Parliament, under the co-decision procedure.
The aim of the directive is to make defence and security markets more open and more competitive, by harmonising the rules on the procurement of arms, munitions and war material, and also sensitive non-military security equipment. It will, in particular, ensure transparency, equal treatment and non-discrimination, principles contained in the treaty setting up the European Community, while guaranteeing that account is taken of the specific nature of these purchases, such as security of information, security of supply and the necessary flexibility in the procedures for the award of contracts during the whole life cycle of the materials. More information can be found in our specialist publication “Europe Diplomacy and Defence”. (O.J./transl.rt)