PARLAMENTO EUROPEU 2009 - 2014
Comissão do Ambiente, da Saúde Pública e da Segurança Alimentar
ENVI_PV(2012)1113_1
ATA Reunião de 13 de novembro de 2012, das 15.00 às 18.00 Audição de Torino Borg, Comissário indigitado para a pasta da Saúde e Defesa do Consumidor
BRUXELAS
A reunião tem início às 15.00 de terça-feira, 13 de novembro de 2012, sob a presidência de Matthias Groote (presidente).
1. Comunicações introdutórias – Disposições práticas para a audição
A audição é organizada e conduzida pela Comissão do Ambiente, da Saúde Pública e da Segurança Alimentar. Estão associadas a esta audição a Comissão do Mercado Interno e da Proteção dos Consumidores e a Comissão da Agricultura e do Desenvolvimento Rural. Interpretação: Todas as línguas estão disponíveis. O debate é transmitido via Internet no sítio do Parlamento e todos os procedimentos são exarados sob a forma de relato integral, disponibilizado após a audição, no sítio Internet da comissão.
2. Saudações pessoais da parte do presidente ao Comissário indigitado, Tonio Borg
3. Declaração introdutória do Comissário indigitado
O presidente dá a palavra ao Comissário indigitado para uma declaração introdutória com uma duração máxima de 10 minutos.
PV\921337PT.doc PE501.924v01-00
PT Unida na diversidade PT 4. Debate com o Comissário indigitado para a pasta da Saúde e Defesa do Consumidor. A esta declaração seguem-se 155 minutos de perguntas e respostas.
O debate obedece ao princípio denominado "ping-pong". . Perguntas longas (standard) têm lugar em unidades de "ping-pong" de 5 minutos de uso da palavra: . um minuto atribuído à pergunta inicial . dois minutos atribuídos à resposta . 45 segundos atribuídos a uma pergunta suplementar . um minuto atribuído à resposta suplementar . Perguntas breves têm lugar em unidades de três minutos de pergunta-resposta: . 50 segundos atribuídos à pergunta . dois minutos atribuídos à resposta Intervenções: Primeira ronda com 7 perguntas dos coordenadores ou de outros intervenientes principais, uma pergunta por grupo político: Peter LIESE PPE (pergunta breve) Linda McAVAN S&D Chris DAVIES ALDE Satu HASSI Verts/ALE Marina YANNAKOUDAKIS ECR Kartika Tamara LIOTARD GUE/NGL Giancarlo SCOTTÁ EFD Segunda ronda com oito perguntas da Comissão ENVI: Françoise GROSSETETE PPE (pergunta breve) Edite ESTRELA S&D (pergunta breve) Alojz PETERLE PPE (pergunta breve) Gilles PARGNEAUX S&D (pergunta breve) Sophie AUCONIE PPE (pergunta breve) Glenis WILLMOTT S&D (pergunta breve) Elena Oana ANTONESCU PPE (pergunta breve) Horst SCHNELLHARDT PPE (pergunta breve) Terceira ronda com oito perguntas da Comissão IMCO: Sob a presidência de Malcolm Harbour: Malcolm HARBOUR, Presidente da Comissão IMCO Andreas SCHWAB Evelyne GEBHARDT Toine MANDERS Emilie TURUNEN Adam BIELAN Dennis DE JONG Mario BORGHEZIO Franz OBERMAYR Simon BUSUTTIL Louis GRECH
PE501.924v01-00 2/50 PV\921337PT.doc PT Quarta ronda com cinco perguntas da Comissão AGRI Sob a presidência de Matthias Groote: Albert DESS Luis CAPOULAS SANTOS George LYON Martin HÄUSLING James NICHOLSON Ronda final com nove perguntas breves e longas da Comissão ENVI: Marina YANNAKOUDAKIS Carl SCHLYTER Corinne LEPAGE Jolanta Emilia HIBNER Elisabetta GARDINI Asa WESTLUND Karl-Heinz FLORENZ Dagmar ROTH-BEHRENDT Richard SEEBER 5. Declaração final do Comissário indigitado Antes do final da audição, o presidente dá ao Comissário indigitado a oportunidade de apresentar uma declaração final com a duração máxima de 5 minutos. 5. Declarações finais de Malcom Harbour, presidente da Comissão IMCO, e Matthias Groote, presidente da Comissão ENVI 6. Final da reunião A reunião dos coordenadores realiza-se à porta fechada, para avaliação da audição, entre as 19.00 e as 20.00 do mesmo dia. * A reunião é encerrada às 18.10. ***
PV\921337PT.doc 3/50 PE501.924v01-00 PT Annexe I With the long questions there will be some to-and-fro: one minute for the initial COMMITTEE ON THE question, two minutes for the candidate to ENVIRONMENT, PUBLIC HEALTH answer, a further 45 seconds if the AND FOOD SAFETY questioner wants to go into something in more detail, and a minute for the answer HEARING OF TONIO BORG on that. COMMISSIONER-DESIGNATE FOR HEALTH AND CONSUMER POLICY Three minutes will be allocated for the short questions: 50 seconds for the VERBATIM question itself and then two minutes for the answer. (English translation) 2-002 IN THE CHAIR: MATTHIAS GROOTE On this International Day of Courtesy, it is Chair of the Committee on the my task and that of Malcolm Harbour to Environment, Public Health and Food see that the proceedings are conducted Safety courteously and in an orderly manner. We thus intend to ensure that the procedure is (The hearing opened at 15.00) fair and that we have a fair hearing. 2-003 For us, as members of the ENVI Chair. – You are all most welcome, and I Committee, and indeed for everyone, the want to welcome in particular the Health change of Commissioner has come Commissioner-designate, Dr Tonio Borg. suddenly. I would like to underscore the point that we need to separate the fact of I will start by briefly outlining the that change from today’s hearing, and to procedure to put you all in the picture remind you that we have an opportunity about today’s hearing. We have three today for critical questioning and, I trust, hours at our disposal. Dr Borg will have for a question-and-answer session that will the floor first to make a 10-minute be both courteous and informative. introductory statement. We will then have 155 minutes for questions, and that time So let us make a start. Allow me to invite will be divided according to a specific the candidate, the Foreign Minister of pattern. Members of the Committee on the Malta, Dr Tonio Borg, to speak first, for 10 Environment, Public Health and Food minutes, and make his introductory Safety (ENVI Committee) will put 10 long statement. I would remind you all once and 16 short questions; there will be seven again that it is, as I said, the International long and three short questions from the Day of Courtesy, so please show some Committee on the Internal Market and courtesy: I would ask you to take your Consumer Protection (IMCO Committee), seats and then to settle down and give which is participating in the hearing; and order for Dr Borg so that he can get things the Internal Market Committee Chair, under way with his introductory statement. Malcolm Harbour – to whom I also extend a warm welcome – will make a three- 2-004 minute statement. The third committee Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. involved is the Committee on Agriculture Mr Chair, thank you for your courteous and Rural Development (AGRI remarks as well. Honourable Members, it Committee), which will have time for five is indeed a great honour to be here today in short questions, i.e. 15 minutes in total. this building, in this institution, to exchange views with Members of this House as Commissioner-designate to be
PE501.924v01-00 4/50 PV\921337PT.doc PT responsible, if appointed, for Health and health threats, clinical trials and medical Consumer Policy. devices are already in the codecision process and we must bring their adoption This portfolio represents what I call safely through to fruition. ‘Europe on the ground’. I would also call it ‘the people’s portfolio’ since it covers The underlying ambition must be that of practical day-to-day issues affecting winning public confidence – whether it is patients and consumers. I have been a how consumer policy can contribute to parliamentarian for the past 20 years and a building confidence in the internal market, member of the Executive in Malta for the or building confidence in the scientific past 14, covering several portfolios, basis of our policy making. including European Affairs. If appointed, I shall do my very best to use this What does all of this mean for the different experience to the maximum benefit of policy areas? In the area of health, my European citizens. number one priority would be to rapidly present an ambitious proposal on tobacco I pledge to make my relationship with you products. Smoking is the biggest cause of one of full cooperation – not only because premature deaths. 95% of all smokers start of Parliament’s decisive role in legislation, smoking before they reach the age of 25, but because I believe that this is the right and 70% even before the age of 18 years. I thing to do. I would endeavour to keep this smoked my first cigarette at the age of 16. channel open without hindrance and to be honest and frank with you; not promising I will deliver an ambitious proposal to you the unattainable, but pledging to work revise the Tobacco Products Directive, a to achieve as much as possible on that proposal that will provide for a functioning which can be delivered. I shall be internal market with a high level of health independent and objective, but above all protection, a proposal that will meet the European. I have dedicated most of my aspirations of European citizens. We have political life, which spans the last 30 years, the tools. I hope I can count on you to help to the accession of Malta to the European me finish the job. Union. Why? Because I believe and I uphold European values. My second priority would be to improve the situation of patients in the EU by I am honoured to have received the support helping Member States in their efforts to of the only two political parties represented adapt to the challenges of rising chronic in the Maltese Parliament which, may I diseases and ageing in a context of severe say, in the Maltese tradition is something fiscal constraints. The Charter of of a feat in itself. Fundamental Rights guarantees everybody the right of access to healthcare. My endeavour for the current mandate would be to deliver for patients and I would support Member States in consumers by what I would call the ‘3 Cs’: improving the efficiency of their ensuring continuity, rebuilding confidence healthcare, exploiting all existing and giving my full commitment to instruments. I fully respect the primary completion of the tasks at hand. national competence of Member States. I am convinced, however, that we have I fully abide by the commitments taken by much to gain from learning and working the current Commission since the start of together, and pooling resources. Health is its mandate. Key initiatives on alternative an investment, not only a cost. But I and online dispute resolution, cross-border believe that it is a value in itself and not
PV\921337PT.doc 5/50 PE501.924v01-00 PT merely something supplementary or lot. We can be proud to have one of the complementary to other considerations. highest levels of food safety in the world, based on very high standards of science; Allow me now to continue briefly in my science will be my guide when taking mother tongue, the only Semitic language difficult decisions. which is an official language of the European Union. A key focus must be to correctly apply and enforce existing rules. Yet there is always 2-005 Turning to consumer policy, I want to room for improvement. I shall be eager to reassure you that I would keep up the present a package of proposals on plant tradition of being a ‘Consumer champion’. health, animal health, seeds, and food and feed expenditure for the period 2014-2020 My guiding principle would be to ensure and controls very early next year. This that we consolidate, strengthen and would simplify the rules and facilitate their implement the framework in place so that effective application and enforcement. We consumer rights can become a reality have to fill the gap on cloning. My across the Single Market and consumer ambition would be to present a legal interests are reflected in all policies of the proposal, together with one on novel food, European Union. The Single Market must next year. be there to deliver benefits for consumers. Building consumer confidence in the Finally, let me turn to animal welfare. internal market is key to putting the Animal welfare is an important European European Union back on track towards value which I fully endorse; indeed the recovery. Treaties themselves refer to animals as ‘sentient beings’. My focus would be to The basic concern for consumers is safety. significantly improve the situation of By early next year I would submit, animals by better application and stricter together with Vice-President Tajani, a enforcement of existing laws. Determined package on product safety and market action against Member States does bear surveillance. This will help simplify fruit, as we saw in the case of laying hens. existing rules and improve market I would vigorously pursue this approach as surveillance and enforcement. The package regards the forthcoming deadline for will be the expression of the simple fact banning sow stalls. If I am appointed, I that safety does not have to come at the shall make better use of existing cost of competitiveness. Safety, on the Commission powers to ensure the contrary, is an investment in implementation and enforcement of competitiveness as the EU retains its mark existing rules on animal transport, and as a global leader in safety of products and beyond that as well. services. In conclusion, in times of economic crisis Another key legislative initiative that I, if there is a tendency to reduce expenditure confirmed, will present at the beginning of across the board. For me, the important next year together with Commissioner factor is to ensure that when budgets are Barnier, is an initiative on bank accounts cut, they are cut in an intelligent manner, aimed at ensuring that consumers obtain conscious of the need to protect the weak information in a transparent way and can and the vulnerable in society. effectively switch their accounts. Europe should never lose its social 2-006 compass. Health and consumer policies are In the area of food the EU has achieved a areas where action at EU level has clear
PE501.924v01-00 6/50 PV\921337PT.doc PT and tangible benefits for consumers and patients. If I earn your trust, I can promise Of course, the directive is still covered by you I will serve with maximum energy and the confidentiality process, because it has to the very best of my abilities and will not yet been adopted by the College. But I seek to work closely with this House can give you my views, in a general way, towards realising the potential of these of what it should contain. First of all, I policies for a better Europe. believe that tobacco products should look like tobacco products and they should taste 2-007 Peter Liese (PPE). – Thank you for your like tobacco products. This directive is introduction, Commissioner-designate. I based on Article 114 of the Treaty, which have a somewhat more detailed question guarantees a high level of human health about the Tobacco Products Directive. The protection in the internal market. We proposal has been postponed several times should also protect young people. All the within the Commission, and there is a view statistics show that a high percentage of in some quarters that – contrary to what those who smoke for the first time do so at you said in your statement – the Tobacco a very young age. There are also certain Products Directive could be dead. I trends: women are smoking more than believe, however, that most people would men, for instance. Therefore, we need to like to see you bring forward the proposal tackle this problem not only by making swiftly. tobacco products look like tobacco products, but also by protecting the young My question is therefore: do you have a through a publicity campaign. And then timetable? Can you be more specific about there are other things which I believe that? Are there certain substantive points should be included like, for instance, not that exercise you? Will you invest your full differentiating between one tobacco energy in ensuring that there is no further product and another, because they are all delay in the procedure? harmful. Sorry for taking such a long time.
2-009 2-008 Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. I Linda McAvan (S&D). – believe that the Tobacco Directive is not Commissioner-designate, you have spoken dead; indeed, it is alive and kicking. In my a lot about defending European values, and political career I very rarely promise things in particular the Charter of Fundamental which I cannot deliver, because I know Rights. I want you to tell me how one can that promises, once made, always come square this with many of the reports we back like a boomerang. But I can promise have been receiving about your political this: if I am confirmed as Commissioner, activities in Malta. my first action will be to send the Tobacco Directive to inter-service consultation and Firstly, in relation to women’s rights and also to get the proposal adopted in January. abortion, it is reported that not only did I am not inventing these dates: I checked you seek to tighten up the law in Malta by the facts and the timetables, and I must say outlawing abortion in the Constitution, but that in this respect I was encouraged and also sought to restrict the free movement endorsed by President Barroso himself. So of pregnant women in case they might go what I am telling you is something which abroad to seek abortion. can be delivered. It is important that if this happens – and I am sure that it will happen Secondly, on the issue of – you assist me in bringing this directive to non-discrimination against people on the fruition during the current mandate of this basis of their sexual orientation, we have Parliament. received reports that you were party to attempts to not fully implement EU law on
PV\921337PT.doc 7/50 PE501.924v01-00 PT free movement, and that in a major debate clarify that matter. on equal rights in the rental market in Malta you spoke about protecting only On sexual orientation, this year I helped to those who deserved protection. Can you draft a law which will, for the first time, explain those remarks, and state how they regulate relationships outside marriage, fit with someone wanting to be the including same-sex marriages. I also voted Commissioner for public heath in the in favour this year of increasing European Union? punishments for crimes committed against victims who are targeted because of their 2-010 Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. A sexual orientation. I will abide by the very tall order. On the question of Charter, Article 21 of which prohibits abortion, this is something which the discrimination on grounds of sexual Treaty is very clear about, namely that it is orientation. This is also reflected in the law completely in the hands of Member States of Malta today, thanks in part to my vote in whether or not it is to be allowed. So, as parliament.
European Commissioner, I will abide by 2-011 the Treaties. I will also abide by the Linda McAvan (S&D). – How will these Charter of Fundamental Rights and by the views impact on decisions in the College, subsidiarity principle, which does not for example on stem cell research or allow the Commission to interfere in any support for programmes on family way with these rights. planning and women’s reproductive and sexual health rights in developing But I would like to clarify something, countries?
because I happen to have here a newspaper 2-012 report. Fourteen years ago I was asked a Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. I very clear question, on a specific case, shall abide by all the programmes decided whether one should allow a pregnant by the Commission, and I shall explain Maltese lady, who wanted to go to Britain why: because those programmes have to have an abortion where it was perfectly already been decided; because there is the legal, to do so. This was the Times of principle of collegiality; and because Malta, in 1998, which asked me the different countries have different laws, and question: ‘Do you agree that she is doing they should be adopted according to the something legally wrong in leaving Malta legal position in the different countries. for this purpose?’ I replied, and I quote: This is something protected under the ‘While I have publicly declared myself Treaty. against abortion, I consider that legally this woman has done nothing wrong, because I therefore have no problem at all, in spite she is going to a country where it is of my personal beliefs, with programmes perfectly legal to perform an abortion’. being adopted according to the laws of the Criminal law in Malta applies only to Member States – indeed not only the Malta itself. Member States of the European Union but also countries outside the European Union. Indeed, I was criticised for having said Otherwise, the principle of subsidiarity that. There was a statement which said: would be infringed, because the principle ‘Reacting to Dr Tonio Borg’s comments in of subsidiarity does not only mean that the Times yesterday, Mr so-and-so said he each country, whether it allows abortion or found it rather strange to hear Dr Borg – a not, should be allowed to do whatever it member of a Christian democratic political wants, but that no one should interfere with party – state that this woman had done choices which have already been made. I nothing wrong legally’. So I would like to
PE501.924v01-00 8/50 PV\921337PT.doc PT shall not interfere with those choices, We know that certain Member States do irrespective of my personal beliefs not regulate these relationships at all. because, if approved, I will be a European When this bill, which is already on the Commissioner. I will not be the Maltese parliamentary agenda, is approved, it will Commissioner – I will be the European mean that it will give rise to legal rights Commissioner nominated by Malta. and obligations and a partnership can be registered in the public registry and a (Applause) partnership certificate can be issued to same-sex couples or heterosexual couples. 2-013 Chris Davies (ALDE). – Commissioner- This is a big step forward in my view. It designate, I do not doubt your ability, but I will also mean in the law of leases, a tenant do question your views. Malta may be a would include, as part of his family, also socially conservative country, but even by partners. its standards your views seem to be on the extreme side. You are on record as making I did not pass any disparaging remarks on distasteful, some would say homophobic, same-sex couples or relationships. What I remarks against same-sex couples; you said in the debate – three years ago – was oppose Malta’s divorce law and tried to that it would be unfair in the law of leases weaken it and I personally do not agree in Malta to include a reform to cover with your views on abortion and sperm/egg relationships outside traditional marriage donation. without having a general framework law. To do that retroactively would have been Now, you are entitled to your own views, extremely unjust on the landlord. That is of course, but this hearing is the nearest we what I criticised: an amendment which was have in the European Union to a by- not approved by government, not by me election campaign and, inevitably, the only, but by government. But in the new views of candidates, individual candidates, law this will be settled in the law of leases come under particular scrutiny. So why for new lease contracts. I do not want to go should I vote for you? Why should I not into details on this question because it reject you and invite the Maltese Prime might sound a bit pedantic. Minister to submit the name of a candidate whose views more closely reflect those of But that is the only remark I made. I never myself? made any disparaging remarks, including one which has been circulated, that ‘we 2-014 shall have to put up with gays’; I never Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. said that. One can check with the official The choice is of course yours. I am here to transcript as to what criticisms I made. I try and see how I can clarify the things think that when I voted in favour of which I have said. I have never been increasing crimes against people for their against relationships outside marriage sexual orientation I never imagined that I being regulated. I myself co-sponsored, would be standing before you today, so I and helped in the drafting, and voted in did it because I believed in it. favour in Cabinet, and voted in favour of the party structures, to have these 2-015 extramarital relationships – heterosexual or Chris Davies (ALDE). – Thank you, same-sex – regulated, which means that Commissioner-designate, for your this will give rise to legal rights and response, but there will clearly be obligations. This is much better than what conflicting reports of what remarks you certain EU Member States have today. have made. There is always the opportunity for me to fall back on what I may call the Irish referendum answer,
PV\921337PT.doc 9/50 PE501.924v01-00 PT which is: ‘If you don’t know, vote no’, and to reject you and seek an alternative. I would like to know if you would support, Again, when it comes to the issue of your in EU development cooperation, the portfolio, can we be sure that your social importance of sexual and reproductive views will not be carried forward into the rights and healthcare programmes in interpretation of European legislation in a respect of women’s rights and discriminatory fashion? development as a whole. I would like to hear your views on these issues, when it 2-016 Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. comes, for example, to fighting the Mr Davies, I shall chart my course by the HIV/AIDS epidemic and ensuring the Charter of Fundamental Rights. This is the health of European citizens as a whole.
Charter of Fundamental Rights which, I 2-018 must add, I also endorsed in cabinet in Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. I Malta. I remember we had a big have been Foreign Minister for four years, discussion, as in other countries, as to but I have never been involved in matters whether this Charter should be ratified by relating to development, so this is Malta as well and I was in favour of something which one would have to ask endorsing it, not only because of my the Minister concerned, as development human rights record. comes under a different portfolio.
I piloted legislation to abolish the death I have already answered that I will abide penalty in Malta completely; I piloted by decisions which have been taken, legislation to remove discrimination according to the principle of subsidiarity as against children born out of wedlock; I was well. As regards HIV and other diseases, involved in landmark judgments in cases in thank God these are no longer the death Malta on human rights covering a period sentence today that they used to be. We of 20 years; I still lecture at the University should be proud of the achievements which of Malta on human rights. So this is ‘up have been made in the fight against HIV. my street’, as we say, this is something In this matter we should concentrate on which I cherish. prevention, on diagnoses and also on cures, and in particular on removing the stigma It is extremely clear in Article 21 of the against those persons who are suffering Charter that any discrimination, not only from what we might call a tragedy of on grounds of sex but also of sexual modern times. orientation, is prohibited. I will abide by this. This will chart my way forward – the I will therefore, if chosen, be attending the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the Conference soon to be held by UNAIDS European Union. on AIDS and human rights, because this is also a human rights issue. I can assure you, 2-017 Satu Hassi (Verts/ALE). – I would like to Ms Hassi, that I will be a European continue with the topics addressed by Commissioner in this regard as well.
Linda McAvan and Chris Davies. 2-019 Commissioner-designate, it is reported Satu Hassi (Verts/ALE). – I would like to that, during the time you have been clarify this a bit further. Maltese Foreign Minister, Malta has been the EU Member State which has blocked Do you agree with me and the Parliament strong EU support for important UN majority that respecting the rights of initiatives concerning women’s rights, like homosexuals and also education, the Cairo Platform. especially for teenagers, on sexual and
PE501.924v01-00 10/50 PV\921337PT.doc PT reproductive matters, are important issues 2-022 in combating HIV/Aids and also in Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. protecting the health of people as a whole? The Clinical Trials Directive, which is currently being discussed, was proposed 2-020 for the very purpose which you have just Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. mentioned. That is to say that there has Ms Hassi, I believe that there are still been a decline in the number of clinical pockets of discrimination in all Member trials conducted. The Commission States, which are in conflict with Article therefore had to intervene with this 21. We should identify them and remove directive – not to make it less safe, but on them. One of them, I believe, is pretty the contrary to cut red tape and have as obvious – it was raised by some Members many clinical trials as possible within the when I had discussions with them it – safety parameter. After all, the safety namely asking people whether they are gay parameter is important, but so too is the or straight before they give blood. I think informed consent of the person undergoing that the proper question should be: do you the trial. have a risky sexual behaviour, whether you are straight or gay? Because I could be May I add that, if you look at the statistics, married and still have risky social and most of the companies or institutions sexual behaviour. This is only one which request clinical trials do not relatively minor example – though for the necessarily belong to the pharmaceutical persons who are involved in this question, industry, but are ordinary academic it could be really important – of institutions. We need to cut red tape to discrimination which is present in a make these clinical trails more common – number of Member States right now. to increase the number while also
2-021 respecting ethical principles. Marina Yannakoudakis (ECR). – My group sees this hearing strictly as an I mention ethical principles because there opportunity to evaluate you on your has been some criticism to the effect that, knowledge of the portfolio. But before I now, there is no mandatory ethical testing begin, I would like to remind you that required by the directive. This was the national health policies and health service result, I am told, of a decision to respect provisions are areas which are exclusively the principle of subsidiarity, as today in the Member State competences. Member States there are enough organised, national ethics committees capable of Now to look at the Clinical Trials doing a good job themselves. Thus it was Directive, which is one of the most in deference to this principle of criticised pieces of legislation ever to subsidiarity that the question of ethics and emerge from the EU machinery. Despite ethics committees was not given a its laudable objectives, the number of mandatory mark in the directive itself. clinical trials in the EU has dropped by 2-023 25% since 2004, the time taken to launch EN new trials has increased by 90%, and the Marina Yannakoudakis (ECR). – burden of red tape has grown. Commissioner-designate, the proposal requires that each Member State must set How do you see the proposed new up national indemnification mechanisms to regulatory framework, taking into account help non-commercial sponsors comply the concerns that this raises, and how do with the insurance compliance you see it boosting areas that top scientists requirements for the clinical trials. are working on?
PV\921337PT.doc 11/50 PE501.924v01-00 PT How do you see this working? Who is Kartika Tamara Liotard (GUE/NGL). – going to end up funding it or bearing the If you become Commissioner for Health, cost? Because we do not want to see you will have a very important role to play Member States having to pay for this. in health and healthcare in Europe. It will What is your vision of it? not, of course, have escaped your notice that considerable inequalities still exist in 2-024 EN health and healthcare between men and Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. women, between heterosexuals and gays, The entire purpose is to cut red tape, not to and between indigenous residents and increase it, so the intention of the immigrants. You will be expected to seek Commission is to make it easier for the actively to eliminate this inequality; that institutions mentioned to adopt these means that you must also act to promote clinical trials themselves, and the inclusion the health rights of women. We have just of national identification bodies is part of been talking about this, but scientific the directive as well, in order to help in this studies show that, where abortion is not process. regulated, there is a significantly greater health risk for women. You say that you So I do not envisage any particular would act as a European Commissioner – difficulties. Of course, one has to discuss and I believe you – but you should also this further on in the process, when it defend the highest level of health reaches the legislative stage, which it is protection in the EU. Will you then, for now doing. I am sure that the controversies example in your own Member State, and difficulties which exist today will be defend the point of view that women must ironed out. I, as Commissioner, will help, not be exposed to certain health risks, and as an honest broker, to iron out any what do you think about the compatibility differences which might exist over the of this with your role as Commissioner and passing of this legislation. your credibility?
2-027 It is something which we should approve EN during the current mandate. It was Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. I proposed in July 2012, and work on it is believe that we should have a cohesion still on-going. So I would describe this as policy, in the same way as there is a work in progress, and hope that we can cohesion policy for economic matters. We achieve a position and an agreement during really need to think about a cohesion the current mandate. policy for health inequalities. If you look at the statistics, it is evident that there are 2-025 DE inequalities on very important health Chair. For the benefit of those who are matters – and this is just within the asking the next questions – I do not know European Union – with regard to infant whether you were here earlier – I would mortality, maternal mortality and healthy remind you that the procedure is as life expectancy. My country happens to be follows: a question is put and then you the first in the European Union as regards have an opportunity as questioner to refer healthy life expectancy and other areas. back to something if the question is not However, if you look at the map of answered in full. It is not in order, inequalities, while I would not say that it is however, to put a new question. I would ‘shameful’, it certainly gives rise to ask you to respect that, please, as we concerns. And as usual when there are proceed. inequalities, it is the vulnerable people, particularly at both ends of life – children 2-026 NL and the aged – who usually suffer the
PE501.924v01-00 12/50 PV\921337PT.doc PT most. not know of a case ever in Malta where contraception was not allowed. As regards the second part of your question, I refer to what I have previously (Applause) said: this is a matter for the Member States to decide. The Commission is not allowed I do not know of a case, so please visit to interfere in these decisions. Even if one Malta to see for yourselves that we do not wanted to interfere, one cannot interfere in have a campaign against contraception. these decisions, and we have to abide by the Treaties. I am bound by Article 168 of I remember in my student days there was a the Treaty, which makes it extremely clear state in the United States – Connecticut – that the delivery of health services is in the which prohibited contraception, but Malta hands of the Member States. This is a never did and never will. This is the pure, double-edged sword of course, but I have free choice of any individual. It would go to abide by it and I will abide by it as a against not only fundamental human rights, European Commissioner. In those the Fundamental Charter, but even the countries where practices are legal, of Constitution of Malta itself, so that is why course let us continue with the it is important that certain misconceptions programmes which we have. Where they are dismantled. are not allowed, let us leave the right to Member States to decide, in line with the Malta is part of the European Union; of Treaties. course it has its own traditions, and I am not here in a patriotic streak to defend my 2-028 NL country, but when certain red lines are Kartika Tamara Liotard (GUE/NGL). – passed I think I have to react. On other I should really like to hear, then, whether issues – relating to abortion and other you will also actively promote this sort of matters – as you know, the Commission thing in your Member State, and I should has always replied in the same way. That is really like to know whether, for example, to say, that these are matters to be you will promote the use of condoms in exclusively decided by the Member States. order to prevent STDs, AIDS and When answering questions from those who unwanted abortions? want to liberalise this practice and from those who want to restrict this practice, it (Reactions from the floor) has been the standard answer and that will be my standard answer as well. 2-029
DE 2-031 Chair. She is entitled to ask an IT additional question. That is what she has Giancarlo Scottà (EFD). – The just done, and I would like to hear the anonymity industry lobby has managed to answer. I would ask everyone to observe convince the Commission, on the grounds our own rules here, please, and also to that this will save around 360 000 euros in keep within the time limit. Otherwise, our administrative and financial costs across colleagues who are scheduled to speak in the EU – as calculated by the high level the final round of questions will not have group – to bring forward a proposal the chance to do so. abolishing the voluntary labelling of beef meat, which was introduced in 2000 in 2-030 EN response to the BSE emergency and has Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. come to be used to provide precise, As today is the International Day of certified information to consumers. Courtesy, I will courteously reply that I do
PV\921337PT.doc 13/50 PE501.924v01-00 PT We devote the utmost attention to between. It is like Schengen. Once you protecting the agricultural environment and enter, then you are free to roam within the animal welfare, but also wish to safeguard area itself. livestock farms, food safety and consumer health. We have heard complaints from EU And we must always remember that the livestock breeders, who do not want internal market was created for the voluntary labelling to be abolished because consumer, and not the consumer for the this would open the door to labelling that internal market. provides information which is not certified, 2-033 imaginary and difficult for the public DE authorities to verify, especially when the Chair. That brings us to the end of the meat comes from outside the EU, thus first round of questions. We come now to having a serious impact in terms of unfair the second round with nine short questions competition and raising question marks as from the Environment Committee, which to quality. means there will be 50 seconds for each question to be put and then up to two What stance would you adopt in the minutes for the answer. I would urge you College of Commissioners on this matter: once again to keep within the time limit would you support farmers and consumers because other colleagues also have or be in favour of abolishing voluntary questions to put later. So please observe labelling? the procedure.
2-032 2-034 EN FR Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. Françoise Grossetête (PPE). – I can be On the question of voluntary labelling, I very brief. We have now been thoroughly am informed that its abolition does not informed about your additional activities, mean that one cannot label even but I have not heard – and I really want a voluntarily, but that the label must not be very clear statement on this – what Mr deceitful. Borg intends to do about the adoption by the Member States of the Anti- I think this is something which is Discrimination Directive. Not the extremely important because, after all, this implementation of Article 21 but the information which we are distributing, Commission proposal for a directive which which we are labelling, only makes sense the Council is not prepared to agree to. if it is not deceitful and if the labelling is 2-035 not used for a purpose other than that EN which is intended. So I can assure the Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. questioner that in spite of this removal of Yes, this is my aim. If you were to ask me, the rule which he mentioned, labelling will Ms Grossetête, I would have preferred remain voluntary. It can be done, provided more money in the till for this health it abides by the rules which already exist programme. I think we have about EUR 64 not to deceive the consumer. million for 500 million consumers, that is something like EUR 2 per head, not much After all, when we speak about the internal investment per head, I would say. I would market, whether of foodstuffs or of prefer more. But we are living in the times everything connected with products, we we are living in today and we have to draft must always bear in mind that an internal our proposals and make our programmes market of 500 million consumers creates a and push our initiatives in the light of the heavier burden on us to protect consumers programme and the financing of the because there are no trade barriers in programme which we have today.
PE501.924v01-00 14/50 PV\921337PT.doc PT sexual and reproductive rights, ‘women’ I know that the trialogue process is meaning not only European women, but ongoing in this respect. I will stay very also those in developing countries? That is close to Parliament’s wishes in this matter, what we want to know, and we are looking not only because it is convenient to do so for a very clear and explicit answer. but because I believe it is also right to do 2-037 so, because you reflect what people feel. EN You are the democratic arm of the Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. It European Union itself. I am a is true that I am lawyer, but I am not parliamentarian, because I happen to seeking refuge in this. The Treaties are belong to a system where to be a minister there to be applied. Whether we like them you have to be a parliamentarian as well; or not is another matter. We have to apply but you have all been elected by the the Treaties. The Treaties are clear on the peoples of your countries and you know issues mentioned. I have replied in a very what the top priorities are as regards health frank way. I have not come here to programmes. abandon my personal views – that would be hypocritical and you would see through I would like to discuss perhaps even me immediately if I were to do that. further what I have in mind as regards the health programmes and the direction we (Applause) should go in – the sustainability of health systems, the differences and inequalities in What I certainly promise is to abide by my the health systems themselves, but also the oath of office, if I am approved. The oath fight against chronic diseases. The fight of office is very clear. As a European against chronic diseases should involve Commissioner you are bound by the rules dealing with the risk factors which affect a of collegiality – thank God, otherwise we number of diseases themselves, such as would have 27 different Commissions and nutrition, alcohol, and consumption of not one Commission! To abide by the rule tobacco, but also the promotion of physical of subsidiarity is not to protect those who activity, which would fight not just one have not followed the practices of the disease, but a number of diseases. But I majority of Member States. It is not about know that if I am approved I will certainly that. It is the other way round. The have a lot of time to discuss this with you, Commission cannot interfere in and also with others, in forging the way programmes relating to the legal situation ahead. I will go with you on this one as in countries where there are, as in the well, Ms Grossetête. majority of Member States, certain
2-036 practices. I will not interfere in these PT because I do not want to, I do not have the Edite Estrela (S&D). – As far as women’s right to do so, I would be in breach of the rights and abortion are concerned, your Treaties if I were to do so and I would personal beliefs, Mr Borg, are well known. have no remit to do so. That is not seeking In this hearing you are sheltering behind refuge, it is just quoting what exists in the the subsidiarity principle so as to avoid Treaties themselves. spelling out your answers to the more awkward questions. Mr Borg, what I will pledge to be a European guarantees of impartiality and Commissioner. In my political life, which independence could you offer, not just as spans over 30 years, I always fought for Health Commissioner, but as a member of Malta to accede to the European Union. the Commission, when there were Why? To get funds from the Structural decisions to be taken relating to women’s Funds or from the Cohesion Fund?
PV\921337PT.doc 15/50 PE501.924v01-00 PT Perhaps, but the primary purpose was that all have some member of the family – I of anchoring Malta within the European have as well – who has suffered from this Union because of the values of the disease. Of course, the primary thrust European Union. When a country is on the should not be to deal with this disease once periphery, it is has even more interest in we detect it – though of course that is anchoring itself to the centre. By the important as well – but to try and prevent centre, I mean in the political sense: the it. upholding of European values which we cherish because they are part of us as well. We know that there are a huge number of Joining the European Union meant cancers which can be prevented. If we look anchoring Malta, once and forever, to at the budgets of our national health European values. systems, we realise that 3% of all the public expenditure goes on prevention and (Applause) 97% goes on cure. It will not be easy to change that, but we have to improve those 2-038 DE figures. Chair. I would like to repeat what was In the specific disease which you said to the guests seated in the last couple mentioned, the most important programme of rows. You are not in a football stadium in which I feel SANCO online services can or at a pop concert, but are attending a help, apart from education campaigns, is in hearing. It is for MEPs – and not guests – the encouragement of screening. If I may to applaud or express their disapproval. cite something from what I know best in Please exercise some self-control so that my country, breast cancer screening can we can conduct the hearing in a dignified save the lives of many, provided it is done and courteous manner. in an organised way. We can help Member States in that respect. 2-039 SL Alojz Peterle (PPE). – Mr candidate, I Also, the general things which I mentioned would like to ask a question concerning before: fighting chronic diseases, diabetes, your area of responsibility. cancer, cardiovascular diseases – cancer and cardiovascular diseases are the two We know that the dynamics of cancer are main causes of death in the European stronger than our responses to it. I am Union – by fighting their causes, such as interested in where you see the poor nutrition, alcohol, tobacco and also opportunities for making the fight against encouraging physical activity. There are cancer more dynamic at European level, certain targets; they are not easy to reach, and what you intend to do to make but there are targets which could be set in prevention more effective. order to decrease the incidence of cancer itself.
In general, I am pleased with the ambitions 2-041 you have set out and with the fact that, as FR far as food safety is concerned, you give Gilles Pargneaux (S&D). – You have priority to the principle of safety ahead of indicated several times your wish to be a the principle of competition. Commissioner who speaks his mind honestly, frankly and openly. I would 2-040 EN therefore like to raise a matter with you Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. Is which, in my view, requires a greater there any family in the European Union degree of transparency than that shown by which is not affected by someone who your predecessor, that is to say public suffers from cancer? I do not think so. We safety in Europe, which is, I believe, being
PE501.924v01-00 16/50 PV\921337PT.doc PT jeopardised by conflicts of interest. health claims – or for being too lenient, and as usual the truth is somewhere in The question arises from the publication by between. the European Court of Auditors of a report on the management of conflict of interest So yes, I shall implement measures to situations in four EU agencies, two of guarantee that there is no conflict of which will be your responsibility as EU interest, particularly as regards Commissioner. The report indicates that employment and post-employment none of the agencies concerned has practices. But I also believe that we should succeeded in managing conflict of interest take up with other Commissioners (this is situations in an appropriate manner. How not only my responsibility) the matter of do you intend to set about achieving an in- creating common rules on conflicts of depth reform of the agencies in the light of interests for all agencies and not just for the conclusions and recommendations of one. the Court of Auditors, specifically relating to reassessment of the risks relating to Of course, each one would have its own bisphenol A and the safety of aspartame, peculiarities, but we need some common this being of particular relevance to the rules. However, this does not depend on concerns raised by our colleague, Alojz me alone. This is just a personal opinion Peterle regarding cancer? which I am sharing with you.
2-042 2-043 EN FR Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. Sophie Auconie (PPE). – I have two Thank you for this question, as I believe it questions. In this commission I am is a top priority. A top priority because, responsible for food-related issues in under health, we have two very important particular. As rapporteur on the labelling independent agencies: EFSA in Parma and of beef and beef products, I should like to EMA in London. know where you stand on the question of animal cloning for the purposes of food I am fully aware of the Court of Auditors production. In your introductory remarks, report on a number of independent you announced your intention of agencies. The report finds flaws in all of presenting a proposal next year. Could you them. Perhaps it is a consolation prize for give some indications as to your views on SANCO that EMA and EFSA were these developments, which are being amongst those who had the least number of followed very closely by Parliament? flaws, but that is no consolation. I shall abide by the recommendations of that My second question relates to sport, a new report, particularly because EFSA and area of competence given to the EU under EMA must not only be independent, but be the Lisbon Treaty. It is essential for us to perceived to be independent as well. As approach this field of activity in the you know, in politics perception is context of public health. What steps do you sometimes as important as reality itself. intend to take in this direction?
2-044 At the same time, let us uphold these EN institutions. Let us not denigrate them, Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. because it is not in our interest to do so. I On the cloning of animals, I have already said to someone recently, the moment said that we will push forward a proposal EFSA becomes popular, I will really so that by June 2013 we shall, hopefully, become worried, because it is either adopt in the Commission a directive on criticised for being too harsh – as in the cloning and on novel food. We all know
PV\921337PT.doc 17/50 PE501.924v01-00 PT the history of what happened last time, so used on products that have huge amounts let us learn from these experiences; I will of fat, salt and sugar in them, then quite not call them mistakes, but experiences. frankly they are of very little use. Today, there is nothing in European law to prevent animal cloning for food. I do not There is also an issue of health claims think that is right; I think that animal being used on follow-on formula, despite cloning for food should be prohibited in being banned on infant formula. This is the European Union. clearly being used by the industry as a way to circumvent the strict rules protecting But right now we do not have a law. Why parents from the misleading marketing of do we not have a law? We should ask formula milk. I would like to hear whether ourselves this question. We know what you will be bringing forward proposals on happened at the latest attempt; we need to nutrient profiles, speeding up the move on now with a new attempt so that assessment of claims on botanicals and animal cloning will be finally prohibited. extending the ban on health claims to The problem will not be in this area – follow-on formula milk. certainly not in Parliament, I think, and not 2-046 in the Council either, I believe. It will EN cover other areas such as the labelling of Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. food from cloned animals and up to which As I mentioned before, this is an area generation that should be continued. where the EFSA has been criticised a lot. Why? Because, when health claims on Of course, I would need to consult with the food were examined in the first wave, a other Commissioners as well, because this number of health claims were found to be also affects other areas and there would wanting, that is to say they were not a have to be an impact assessment there as health claim at all. Incidentally, when we well. However, my intention is to push mention health claims we should always forward this directive for adoption in June remember that we are not prohibiting or 2013. On novel food, I do not think there banning any food products, we are just should be any problem at all. preventing deceitful claims regarding health; sometimes the EFSA is criticised On athletic sports, I have already for what it has done as if it is banning food mentioned the importance of physical products. It is not banning food products, it activity for the prevention of disease itself is just saying that this particular health so, to the extent that we can, my services claim, that it improves digestion, or it will help in the promotion of sports – helps you to slim, is just not true and amongst the young first of all, but judging therefore the consumer should not be from my personal experience, it is never deceived. too late either. The human body can adapt to sporting activity, so I would also suggest Certainly as regards the nutrient profiles, I this measure to anyone in the room. will follow what is laid down in the law.
2-045 The nutrient profiles legislation was EN proposed by the Commission, approved by Glenis Willmott (S&D). – You mentioned the Council and approved by Parliament. health claims and there are many issues Of course now we have to implement it, around the legislation. The Commission but it is not as if we are creating new law. has still not proposed any maximum limits It is the implementation of something for nutrient profiles, despite having an which empowers us to implement itself. agreement between the Council and the Certainly we have to take care of Parliament in 2006. If health claims can be traditional foods in the process, to protect
PE501.924v01-00 18/50 PV\921337PT.doc PT them, but we have to move forward on this different ideas: freedom, justice, unity in file of nutrient profiles. The reason is that diversity. one can still make a false health claim by saying that this particular food product But it should also be associated with helps in one health aspect – but it increases solidarity; and solidarity not just by writing the danger in others. It could have less salt it in a textbook or a declaration – that is but it could have more sugar, so you are in very easy to do – but by applying it in one way deceiving yourself through the several areas. And there is also solidarity nutrient profile itself. in the health field. This is a perfect example of where we should address our 2-047 DE efforts as well. Chair. As we are talking about the EFSA, may we take this opportunity to As regards concrete action, I have one congratulate this Agency – which is very which is very clear in my mind: supporting important for our Committee – on its 10th the co-financing rates for those countries, anniversary that has been celebrated over those Member States, which have less than the last couple of days. 90 % of GNI, strengthening it, enforcing it and discriminating in their favour. 2-048 RO Elena Oana Antonescu (PPE). – Mr Discrimination is not always prohibited. Borg, thank you for this exchange of Sometimes there is positive discrimination views. As a result of these unprecedented as well. This applies not only to female financial austerity measures, people and male gender quotas, but it applies also increasingly at risk of poverty are, because to health. Those who need further of inadequate health insurance cover, assistance should be helped and that likely to have to meet the full cost of their discrimination is not discrimination at all, medical care and treatment. Throughout because the moment it is positive, it is not the European Union, the public regards even discrimination. It is solidarity. It unequal access to health services as a real metamorphoses from discrimination into problem, something which, as you pointed solidarity. out, is also affecting the treatment of chronic illnesses. So that is one of the programmes which I would follow on co-financing. Perhaps not Concerning unequal treatment regarding everyone is in agreement with me on this health care, I was pleased to note your issue, but I know that those who really previous observation regarding the need to need assistance as regards health and joint introduce cohesion policy in the health health products would be in favour. Also, sector similar to that existing with regard it should always be remembered that the to the economy. In this connection, I poor are entitled to health, not poor health. should like to ask you whether measures to ‘Poor’ – of course this is something remedy inequalities in the health sector and relative. Not necessarily poor in economic promote equal access to health care is one means; poverty is related also to of your priorities and whether you could vulnerability and vulnerability is relative. give us examples of specific measures to It can depend on age, it can depend on achieve this. other things as well.
2-049 2-050 EN DE Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. Horst Schnellhardt (PPE). – In the 2007– Yes, it will be one of my priorities because 2013 health strategy the relationship the European Union is associated with between human health and the health of
PV\921337PT.doc 19/50 PE501.924v01-00 PT farm animals is summarised under the ‘one financial prospects of an industry which health’ concept. That is the right way to plays a crucial role in the creation of new put it. Proposals for legislation were antibiotics to combat new strains. announced on the basis of this health strategy, for example the review of animal Certainly this package is on the cards; it is health law, rules on official controls and in the pipeline. We are giving it due veterinary medicinal products and attention, and I hope also that it will medicated feed procedures. strengthen our enforcement powers in this respect – not only on the particular issue of These have not yet been submitted. The antibiotics which I have just mentioned, animal health strategy expires in 2013. Are but in other areas relating to plant health, there perhaps any obstacles to recognising animal health and also seeds. Let us not the need for this issue to now be given forget that if we ignore seeds and do not active attention? Why the delays? Why control them properly, they have the would the Commission want to present potential to do harm through these highly relevant proposals requiring contamination. wide consultation in the one package? I promise that we should have a good 2-051 EN package by the first quarter of next year.
Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. 2-052 Yes, the intention of this package is to DE have a Commission proposal in the first Chair. The next speaker is Mr Griffin. quarter of 2013. It will be an important He is not here? In that case we have package: it will consolidate what is already reached the end of the second round, and there, and it will develop on the basis of we come now to questions from the what we already have. Committee on the Internal Market.
2-053 Just speaking off-the-cuff, there are certain EN issues which are of concern to everyone, IN THE CHAIR: MALCOLM particularly resistance to antibiotics in the HARBOUR area of animal health – an issue which also Chair of the Committee on the Internal affects human health. This is an area in Market and Consumer Protection which we really have to see to what extent 2-054 we are properly enforcing the current EN legislation. Giving antibiotics to humans or Malcolm Harbour (ECR), Chair of the to animals when it is not necessary Committee on the Environment, Public increases resistance to antibiotics, which is Health and Food Safety. – Thank you very not only a threat to our own health. There much, Matthias. I want to thank the are deaths which are occurring already Committee on the Environment, Public because of resistance to antibiotics. Health and Food Safety very much on behalf of the members of my committee All antibiotics have a natural life-span. By for giving us this opportunity to probe the overusing antibiotics, even in animals, we Commissioner-designate on the crucial are reducing this life span to the extent that issues relating to consumer policy and we are also affecting the pharmaceutical programmes for which he is responsible. industry, since the industry invests in a particular antibiotic for the purpose of I just remind my colleagues – seven of my making financial gain over a period of colleagues will have long questions – that time. That period is now being reduced to it is a one-minute question, a two-minute such an extent that it is ruining the answer, a 45-second supplementary, which
PE501.924v01-00 20/50 PV\921337PT.doc PT must be linked to the subject of the There are several tools at our disposal. question, and then a final reply. I think it is Whether we are using them properly or useful just to recap that. Then we have effectively or efficiently is something three short questions. I know that our completely different. If we were to be lax colleagues for the Environment Committee on enforcement it would be unfair on the will be very sharp on the time, by the way. consumer, but also unfair on those who Even though we are slightly distant, I will abide by the rules. If there is no difference keep a close eye on the time. between abiding by the rules and disobeying the rules, then everyone would I was very pleased to hear the disobey the rules themselves. Commissioner-designate, Mr Borg, say in his opening speech that he would be ‘a These are rules which have been made by champion of consumer interests’, and that the European Union through its codecision he wanted to see consumer interests procedure. That is already a very laborious represented in all single market policies of process. I learnt this before, but now I am the European Union. Those are the experiencing it directly. It would be even questions on which I know that the worse if, once we have a law which applies members of my committee will be to the entire internal market, there were focusing very sharply indeed in order to then huge differences in its application. probe the Commissioner-designate on those. I am going to open first of all with I intend to attend the summit for Ministers Mr Andreas Schwab. regarding the consumer, at which the subject will be enforcement. Of course, it 2-055 DE is impossible to enforce all laws at the Andreas Schwab (PPE). – That is exactly same time without exception, but we have what I wanted to ask. In your introduction, to strengthen our affairs, and there are Mr Commissioner-designate, you said: tools in this respect as well. For instance, ‘Consumer rights should become a reality.’ we already have the consumer protection I am delighted to hear that but I think at centres, where we actually coordinate the least two basic questions can be asked affairs of the different consumer societies, regarding this statement and putting it into but there are also tools as regards granting practice. redress.
The first is how do we manage to have acts In my legal experience – I worked as a already adopted actually enforced in the lawyer for 15 years in the law courts, in the Member States, especially when these are actual arena of law, not giving advice or Directives? How do we ultimately manage staying in an office but actually attending to apply them in the same way for all litigation – telling the consumer that he or consumers? she can go to court is OK on paper, but it is very difficult; it is costly. There is also a Secondly, a study published recently has stigma for some people in entering a court shown that many consumers find it more building. So we need to devise new and more difficult to understand all the methods – and I know that there is information they get, including legislation in the pipeline – where a information required by law. How do you consumer can challenge something through think we can help make sure that a less costly alternative method of consumers really are properly informed? resolution and have swifter redress, because enforcement also means redress. If 2-056 EN you were to ask me what my consumer Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. agenda is, I would say safety, information,
PV\921337PT.doc 21/50 PE501.924v01-00 PT education and enforcement, but also have to do this: we have to see the signs of redress. Here I think that the European the times. If we do not move along with Parliament, on the initiative of the the signs of what is happening on online Commission, is doing a fine job in commerce, we will fall back, and this is extending things into online trading. My dangerous in a free internal market of experience is that this is increasing, 500 million consumers because, the particularly in several areas like travel or moment there is a product which is unsafe, purchasing a book or purchasing a holiday it has the ability to roam about amongst package. If we do not move with the times 500 million consumers. we will be doing a disservice to the 2-059 consumer. DE
2-057 Evelyne Gebhardt (S&D). – Mr DE Commissioner-designate, you very Andreas Schwab (PPE). – Following on cleverly succeeded in not actually directly from what the Commissioner- answering the first round of questions designate has just said, this specifically dealing with the concepts of respect for means that in a number of cross-border fundamental rights and subsidiarity. For cases we do of course also have an that reason, I should now like to put two increasing need to standardise the legal very specific questions to you, which can status of consumer rights; otherwise be answered with a simple yes or no. consumer protection will vary considerably across different borders. First question: Commissioner Reding is currently preparing a legislative proposal What do you intend to do to encourage on quotas for women on boards of Member States to take further steps in this directors and supervisory boards. Will you area? support Ms Reding in the College, yes or no? 2-058 EN Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. Second question: the European Parliament There are further tools: I forgot to mention took a decision by a large, qualified in my first intervention the scoreboard, for majority calling on the Commission to instance. The consumer scoreboard is submit a legislative proposal on access to a important because sometimes it is basic account for every individual in the criticised that it costs too much money, but European Union. This is what was the scoreboard is an effective method not promised to us, but the Commission’s only of gauging your own performance, programme contains no such proposal. but to let others gauge your performance as Should you become Commissioner, will well. Shall I call it name and shame, or you support Commissioner Barnier in his name and praise? Because why should we efforts to draw up this legislative proposal, look at it only from the negative point of yes or no?
view? 2-060 EN When my country sometimes features Chair. – I am sure you would like to number one, I am proud to say so. When it answer. Let me emphasise that this is not is at the end of the list, of course you are the responsibility of this committee but I embarrassed. So this is a form of sanction am sure we would still be interested to hear which is not a legal, but – shall I call it? – your answers so I will allow it.
a political sanction, which is as important 2-061 as the legal one. So yes, there are ways and EN means of increasing the enforcement. We Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate.
PE501.924v01-00 22/50 PV\921337PT.doc PT Mr Harbour, I do not want to sound clever, introduced – and that was the question I but the answer is ‘yes’ and ‘yes’. This is put. the answer which I give you. Of course I 2-063 will not stop there. I would like to expand EN on why I am saying ‘yes’ and ‘yes’. Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. I fully agree. The three points are, in actual On quotas, it is partly covered by the fact, accessibility to an account – because Charter, because the Charter prohibits an account has become almost as important discrimination based on sex and gender, as an identity card – transparency as but it allows an exception for positive regards fees, and also the question of the discrimination for the under-represented switching of accounts. But yes, the title of sex. So, in certain situations it could the directive would probably be access to perhaps be male as well, but usually it is bank accounts, transforming this into a the female sex. So, no, I have no right in itself. difficulties with the quota issue. Of course 2-064 one has to see the elements of the proposal NL itself, because a lot of people have some Toine Manders (ALDE). – Mr Borg, we reservations about elective posts. But on are debating consumer protection. You are regulatory bodies, I say, why not? also a consumer, and so I feel you also Because, when everything fails, one has to need to be protected. There have already refer to and rely on the quotas themselves. been allegations made about you. Mr Dalli had to resign because of unproven On bank accounts, I thought I had already allegations – unproven so far at any rate. mentioned this in my introduction. It is a Do you think it would be a good idea for promise. The proposal will be launched – people who are appointed to an important of course I have to discuss it with post in the European Union to be screened Commissioner Barnier – and this is in advance by OLAF? That is my first something which can be a feather in question. everyone’s cap. I believe this is something which will make a lot of difference for I then have a question about your portfolio. consumers. It is not just something vague Mr Dalli was – as I hope you are – a great or ephemeral; it is something which will advocate of providing young consumers in influence the lives of the ordinary man and Europe with information as part of woman in the street, because it will preventive healthcare so that they can guarantee more transparency, better ability make the correct food choices and choose to switch accounts and transparency as safe products in full knowledge of the regards fees. I am informed by the services facts. I hope you will support this. that this initiative is targeted for adoption in February 2013. I have one more question: how will you
2-062 make it possible for patients and DE consumers to have easier access to Evelyne Gebhardt (S&D). – I have a innovative medicines? follow-up question on the second point. 2-065 The point at issue here is not transparency EN or the scope for transferring accounts. Chair. None of those are the What we need to do is ensure that every responsibility of our committee, but I will individual has access to a basic account. In be slightly indulgent to Mr Manders. On your answers and in your introductory the first question, I do not think the issue statement, you made only vague references about OLAF is really relevant to this to initiatives. I want to see a legal right hearing, but I will leave it to Mr Borg to
PV\921337PT.doc 23/50 PE501.924v01-00 PT decide how much of that he wishes to the freedom to choose, provided we can answer. ensure the safety of the medicine itself. That is the most important thing, as well as 2-066 EN to have a very good independent agency in Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. It the form of the EMA, which also has to be is not a question of being clever but of reformed as much as possible to guarantee being prudent, and I have to be prudent in not only its independence but also the this matter. I have worked with Mr Dalli, perception of its independence. But, as in Cabinet and outside Cabinet. I hope that usual, ‘the buck stops here’, and so the he is allowed space to defend his position, authorisation will always be that of the but that is all I can say. I am here because Commissioner.
there has been a resignation and there has 2-067 to be a substitution. My government DA proposed me as a substitute to Mr Dalli Emilie Turunen (Verts/ALE). – With and I will ensure certain continuity but I regard to consumer legislation in the EU will come out with my new ideas as well. you mentioned a number of issues we are pleased you have mentioned, such as OLAF can defend itself. I do not need to product safety and the right to a bank say anything about that. On courses for account. However, these are all existing food, provided these are voluntary – if we plans, so my question is: What new start imposing courses for better food we measures will you present to European will end up with mandatory courses on consumers? getting married and courses telling us to do this or that – it is important to educate I also need to ask – and I very much regret people, not by not telling them that they this, Chair – about something which in my cannot eat this or that, but by informing view is quite crucial for anyone who wants them on the ingredients in what they are to become a Commissioner, regardless of consuming and the effects of those their portfolio, since the Commission is a ingredients. collegiate body which takes common decisions in all areas. As you will be On new medicines, of course we must representing 500 million citizens, I must always be open to innovation, and to ask about your attitude to Article 21. You alternative medicines as well. There are have referred to it yourself, but I must ask some people who prefer not to take drugs this question in the light of the quotations but to adopt other procedures. Provided we have heard, for example about your that those alternatives are safe, we should attitude to equality for homosexuals and not interfere in the citizen’s and your attitude to women’s reproductive consumer’s right to choose the medicine he health and rights. In my view these are or she believes – because there is also a very critical quotations, and I simply must psychological element – can be palliative, ask you: Will you actively support the alleviate suffering or cure him or her. I Anti-Discrimination Directive?
know there is a directive on this issue of 2-068 alternative medicines, and we are also EN studying and refining a report on the Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. question of the availability of medicines Yes, and not because there is an internal themselves – be these new, old or market, but because it is the right thing to traditional medicines or alternative do. medicines. Article 21 is in our Charter. It is also So on this issue let us allow the consumer reflected today in Maltese legislation.
PE501.924v01-00 24/50 PV\921337PT.doc PT Article 21 has been copied now – lock, Commissioner thinks of the next stock and barrel – into our legislation Commission, because you can always lay through an amendment to the law on the foundation stones for future initiatives equality for men and women that we have as well. However, I would like to focus on in Malta, which I supported as well. certain initiatives, and I promise you that those on which I focus will be delivered. So if I supported this in my own country, 2-069 why should I not support it across the EN entire European Union? You have my Emilie Turunen (Verts/ALE). – A guarantee in that respect. I have already follow-up: there has been a long discussion mentioned concrete examples of how this on collective redress here in this House, can already be done, because – even your precise point… though we have Article 21 of the Charter – 2-070 no person here in this room can safely say EN that everything is done in line with Article Chair. Ms Turunen, follow up your first 21 of the Charter in his own country. question, please. Do not introduce a fresh question. So each Commissioner should see to it that 2-071 Article 21 is not limited to health or to EN freedom but to all policies of the European Emilie Turunen (Verts/ALE). – Yes, but Union. it is linked, because it is an ongoing issue in the consumer field. I ask which new I beg to differ slightly as regards the idea initiatives you would present. Could of having no new initiatives on consumers. collective redress be a new one? We have the ADR, which is in the process of trialogue; we have the ODR in the Secondly, I have to return to Article 21, process of trialogue. We also have the because that would also mean an active consumer programme, which may not be backing of an LGBT framework that could an initiative but which nonetheless also come forward via Mrs Reding. Would you contains actions. support that?
We have, coming up, the directive on Also, would you actively support access to banking accounts. We shall also development work that includes sexual and have, hopefully by January, a proposal on reproductive rights, and funding for that? product safety in collaboration with other That will also be your decision as Commissioners – I believe with Commissioner. Commissioner Tajani – so there are 2-072 initiatives. EN Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. I prefer to focus on a few initiatives which That is a tall order, but I will try to reply. could succeed, rather than running after a Yes, if there is an initiative by Mrs Reding, large number of initiatives and not who is responsible for rights, there is no concluding any of them. I believe in focus. reason why I should not support such If I am appointed by you, if I am approved programmes if they are in line with Article by you, I will have a limited period of time 21 of the Charter and with the Charter as a left in this mandate. Of course I will be a whole. full Commissioner like all the others, but there is only one year and ten months left, On the development programme, which and I like to plan according to the time falls under the remit of the Commissioner available. This does not mean that no
PV\921337PT.doc 25/50 PE501.924v01-00 PT for Development, I believe I have already Commission takes proper account of their answered the question. I will not attempt to interests in the legislative proposals it do remove anything from the programme, submits in other areas, given that this is provided that the programme is consonant one of the priorities of the consumer with the laws of the Member States. strategy?
2-074 On collective redress, I would have EN preferred it if you had asked me for my Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. I personal opinion. My personal opinion is shall be guided by Article 38 of the very clear. I am in favour of collective Charter, which provides that ‘Union redress and I voted in the Maltese policies shall ensure a high level of Parliament – last summer, I believe – for consumer protection’. the introduction for the first time in Malta of collective redress legislation. I have So it is not a question of departmentalising examined the statistics. I believe there are or pigeon-holing consumer protection for 18 out of the 27 Member States who have the Consumer Protection Commissioner already adopted collective redress. Of alone, as each and every DG working in course, you will appreciate that any the policies areas of the European Union directive in this regard needs cooperation has to ensure, and I quote again, ‘a high with other Commissioners so it would be level of consumer protection’. too ambitious, audacious and presumptuous of me to say that we will The worst thing which could happen would follow any particular line. But action has to be to say that consumer protection is Mrs be taken, and I agree with you that the time Reding’s responsibility or, if you approve has come to take some kind of step in this me, Mr Borg’s responsibility, and that the regard. other Commissioners will ignore consumer
2-073 protection. PL Adam Bielan (ECR). – Mr This is a mandate from the Charter, under Commissioner-designate, our committee which we have to apply consumer has long been working to put EU protection across the board. The consumer consumers in a stronger position, so as to agenda is based on the four principles ensure that they are able make an informed which I mentioned: safety, education and choice when purchasing goods and information, but also enforcement and services and are properly protected when redress. making that choice. I know that you have a good deal of experience in working I look forward to this redress. I do not want together with the Maltese Parliament, and to labour the point too much, but the key to thus hope that you will also establish good everything – while I have mentioned the cooperation with the European Parliament four principles – lies in redress itself. This and that this House will be able to count on is because it is useless to have a right and your support within the Commission. then not to have quick redress to enforce it.
In this connection, I should like to ask how So my two priorities will be redress, but you intend to ensure that consumer policy also to see to it that consumer protection is and the interests of EU consumers are a a matter for everyone in the Commission central concern in all EU policy-making. and in its DGs, and that it is completely As an advocate for consumers – a role you pervasive. acknowledged in your introductory 2-075 remarks –, how will you make sure that the PL
PE501.924v01-00 26/50 PV\921337PT.doc PT Adam Bielan (ECR). – Thank you for will continue using these tools in this your answer. I should like to ask one more respect. question, on the subject of consumer 2-077 information and education. In your view, NL do the existing mechanisms for improving Cornelis de Jong (GUE/NGL). – Mr consumer awareness and knowledge and Borg, unfortunately same-sex couples still the activities of bodies such as consumer suffer from discrimination, including as advice centres and the European Consumer consumers – for example, in obtaining a Centres Network go far enough? In your reduction when they want to sleep in one view, can the interaction between them be room in a hotel and are told to book two seen as satisfactory? If not, what approach rooms. To this end the Commission has should we adopt, and what would you do proposed the Anti-Discrimination as Commissioner to improve the structures Directive, but as Ms Turunen has said, the currently in place? negotiations are having a very bumpy ride.
2-076 Can you promise us that, as Commissioner EN responsible for consumer affairs for Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. everyone, you will make a special effort do Yes, there is still much to do. If there were get this directive adopted, and will go not much to do, we would all be redundant around the Member States lobbying for the as Commissioners, but I believe we have adoption of this directive? That is my first certain tools which we have to make more question. perfect and sharpen a bit. I mentioned already the consumer protection centres, My second question is this: as your which form the network of national bodies predecessor was aware, integrity is very for consumer protection. This needs to be important. Can you give me an idea of the strengthened, particularly in an internal additional positions which you currently market of 500 million. hold, which you would give up so as to avoid a conflict of interests, and how do I already mentioned the scoreboard, and you define ‘conflict of interests’ as may I mention the studies, because Commissioner for consumer affairs? sometimes there is a certain allergy 2-078 towards studies: they cost too much, they EN do not produce enough. But I will just give Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. you one example of a study on consumer The only posts I have at the present time behaviour which led to a directive are that of a parliamentarian in Malta, that regarding deception in online commerce. of a Minister, and I am also an honorary Thanks to this study on consumer member of some band clubs in Malta. I behaviour, a directive was issued regarding hope that the tunes of the band clubs will these tick-boxes on online commerce sites not disrupt the functions of my office. where you buy a product through the Internet, which is becoming ever more I am not a director of any commercial common, and where without realising you company at the present time. I used to be, have already ticked – without ticking it – but I am no longer a director of a company. something referring to your own rights, I have no business interests of any sort. As which you are either renouncing or soon as I became a minister in 1998, I curtailing. Of course you should tick the completely abandoned my legal office. So box, the box should not tick itself. This I have no links to my legal office. I do not was the result of a study which our receive any payment from my legal office. services did in the field of consumer I just abandoned my clients to their fate for protection and which gave real results, so I a very simple reason: I was Minister of
PV\921337PT.doc 27/50 PE501.924v01-00 PT 2-081 Justice. You can imagine the conflict of EN interest which would arise if I held even Chair. Well, we will not ask which the slightest link to my legal office and instrument you play. someone were acquitted or found guilty. 2-082 NL I have already replied to the question of Cornelis de Jong (GUE/NGL). – I can be what we should do with Article 21. Do we very brief. We have now been thoroughly just frame it in our offices or in our informed about your additional activities, homes? No, we should implement it. We but I have not heard – and I really want a can implement it through particular very clear statement on this – what Mr measures. I have already mentioned one – Borg intends to do about the adoption by which jars a bit in my view – regarding the Member States of the Anti- blood donation, but there are others as Discrimination Directive. Not the well. In Malta, as regards health, with the implementation of Article 21 but the new law which I co-edited with the Commission proposal for a directive which Minister of Justice, it will be possible in the Council is not prepared to agree to. any hospital to regard a partner – heterosexual or same-sex – as next of kin 2-083 for the purposes of giving permission for EN an operation to take place or for a surgical Chair. That again is not technically part procedure to be performed. So, wherever of our remit but I will be happy to allow there are these pockets of discrimination – you to answer it, if you wish to do so. provided that they are pigeonholed in 2-084 Article 21 of the Charter – I will support EN those changes which are necessary. Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. Mr Chairman, I have come across 2-079 EN discrimination in several forms throughout Chair. I have just been passed, on behalf my political and legal career. There is no of the Chair of the whole hearing, a letter reason why I should not do so today as from Klaus-Heiner Lehne to confirm that well. the Committee on Legal Affairs has scrutinised Mr Borg’s declaration of I have already mentioned certain initiatives interests. They say that, apart from an which I undertook when I was a lawyer obvious typographical error about certain and when I was a minister, when I fought financial bonds, the committee had no against discrimination by removing it from further comment. So that scrutiny has been the statute book. I removed it by piloting carried out. legislation to that end because I believe in the dignity of the human being, which Mr Borg, we could not quite understand means that there can be no unjustified which clubs you were a member of. It was discrimination. not very distinct. Was it pet clubs or boat clubs? We were not quite sure. Of course some discrimination is acceptable. If I am granted a parking space 2-080 in front of Parliament, that is not a EN discrimination because it has a reason Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. behind it. But when there is unjustified Band clubs; we love music, and each discrimination in any field on the various village has its own band club. Of course, I grounds which exist in the Charter, as well am an honorary member of the band clubs as in the European Convention on Human which, just by pure chance, happen to be in Rights, I shall fight that discrimination. I my constituency.
PE501.924v01-00 28/50 PV\921337PT.doc PT think I am very clear on this point, because when a product that is not an agricultural I believe in the dignity of the human being. or food product is imported into the EU market, where there are 500 million 2-085 IT consumers, it can potentially be hazardous Mario Borghezio (EFD). – for all those 500 million people. Commissioner-designate, please accept my congratulations. I am among those who So, although I cannot enter into details – I admire your island, which I see as an do not know them – on the question of the island of freedom – in many ways – which CE mark, I will do all I can to ensure that is proud of its own identity. safety is a priority for myself and for the rest of the Commission, and perhaps also My first question is this: in a recent move further ahead. But what about the judgment, the Court of Justice found that safety of services provided in the European Member States cannot stop the marketing Union? Why is it that we are always and use of community products that do not talking about products and not services? I bear the CE mark. Do you not feel this to am thinking, for example, of fire safety, be restrictive from a consumer protection and of people being able to stay at hotels in standpoint, since it is in the very best the European Union whose fire safety is interests of consumers to know where guaranteed. Just think how many deaths products have come from? could be prevented by taking steps in that direction. I would therefore devote much As regards ‘made in’ labelling, would you time to the drafting of a green paper in this agree with your future colleague, the Trade area. Commissioner, when he said that he wants to shelve the ‘made in’ dossier? Do you My idea would be – and it is mine alone; I not feel that ‘made in’ labelling is do not want to commit my colleagues in necessary in order to provide information the College – to move forward with a to consumers, including on geographical proposal which goes beyond what you and geo economic origin? In my country, have suggested, which is to say a proposal pharmaceutical products, and even that includes services in the safety net. children’s toys that in some cases are That will enable us to have the safer hazardous for children’s health, originating internal market that you desire. from countries – we all know which these 2-087 are – such as China, are continually being IT impounded. Mario Borghezio (EFD). – Very briefly, on the issue of on line trade and on line Lastly, we need transparency in on line gambling, the Committee on Organised trade and on line gambling. Crime, Corruption and Money Laundering was recently informed by experts of the 2-086 IT very worrying and extremely dangerous Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. involvement of criminal and mafia type Mr Borghezio, I agree with you that we organisations in this sector. Do you not must do more to guarantee that products feel that greater emphasis should be placed imported from countries outside the on safeguarding not only the general public European Union are safe. against criminal activities, but also, more specifically, consumers who literally place Unfortunately, we do not have the same themselves in the grip of such verification system that we have for food organisations? Let us think about betting products entering the EU market. This is and about products – about what type of despite the fact that dangers exist, because products might emerge from companies
PV\921337PT.doc 29/50 PE501.924v01-00 PT run by these ‘gentlemen of honour’. purely personal opinion; I am not committing the Commission in any way. I 2-088 IT have seen this plain packaging, and if you Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. I ask me, it could be effective as well. certainly agree with you, not least because, Whether we have reached the stage of while on line trade is an asset, and a good obliging an inclusion in the Tobacco and fair thing, it is also a double edged Directive of this plain packaging I do not sword. It can be very worthwhile, but it know. There has to be, however, can also encourage organisations with bad something on packaging which is effective. intentions to use the internal market, just as I have said already that tobacco products they can use the Schengen system, in order should look like tobacco products, not like to violate consumer rights. We must be something else, and should taste like very alert to this. I know that there is a tobacco products too. So I think the directive in this respect, but I am not sure direction in which I would go is pretty that it is being correctly implemented. This clear, without leaking any provisions of the will be one of my priorities during my two directive, although there is nothing like a years in office, if you see fit to approve my secret in the European Union and already nomination. some details have leaked out on the directive itself, on which I will not 2-089 DE comment. Franz Obermayr (NI). – In August I put a question to the Commission on plain The only country which has already packaging, suggesting that cigarette introduced plain packaging is Australia, I packets and cigarettes themselves should believe. I have seen some packets which be devoid of all brand logos. Your make it more unattractive to purchase predecessor, Mr Borg, answered stating tobacco products. There was a challenge in that the Commission intended to submit a the Australian Supreme Court and on 15 proposal by the end of 2012, in other August of this year that challenge was words soon. rejected. Of course now Australia is being challenged in the WTO, so there are all My question is this: do you already have these complications. What I would favour any information about the status of that is to leave Member States free individually working paper? It is important, because if they want to introduce plain packaging thousands of jobs in the packaging and but not, perhaps, at this stage to impose it paper industry are at stake. Secondly, do from the centre, but this is purely my you think this uniform packaging will personal view. It could well happen that increase the risk of cigarette smuggling when the Tobacco Directive is launched – and product piracy? Thirdly, what view do well, a bill in Parliament starts in one you take of this attack on trademark rights, direction and it could become stronger, or as enshrined in Article 17 of our Charter of weaker as well. I will be against Fundamental Rights. And finally, do you weakening the current Tobacco Directive have any comment to make on the lack of which is in the pipeline.
evidence that plain packaging is effective 2-091 in reducing tobacco consumption? EN Simon Busuttil (PPE). – Dr Borg, I claim 2-090 EN to know you personally, not only because I Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. come from the same political party as you, The difficulty in answering this question is but also because I live just three streets that the directive is still under the rule of away from you and, yes, there is a band confidentiality, so I can just give my club between us. I have to tell you that I
PE501.924v01-00 30/50 PV\921337PT.doc PT have always admired you for your I have already mentioned the tools – integrity, but also because in our country redress, ODR, ADR, scoreboards and the you are a symbol of human rights and consumer protection centres. But we also democracy, which are core common have to study the reports which are coming European values that everyone in this room in on what is happening in online cherishes. I want to thank you for that commerce, and what is happening is not because, without people like you, our always pleasant, so we have to be country, my country, would not be extremely vigilant in this regard. I promise embracing these European values. you and Parliament to be vigilant in this respect and, just as we remove the My question is this. How will you, as a deceitful claims and adverts in the health Commissioner, protect consumers from claims, we should do the same in online misleading practices? I have in mind, for commerce, and are very careful about this instance, aggressive practices of method for the reasons that I mentioned misleading business directories that entrap before. consumers into buying something that they 2-093 never wanted to buy. What concrete MT measures are you envisaging to protect Louis Grech (S&D). – Not all sessions of consumers from misleading practices? Parliament will be this difficult, Dr Borg.
2-092 My question is: how successful do you EN think you will be in carrying out the Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. holistic plan on consumer affairs when we Yes, Mr Busuttil, thank you for your kind know from experience that the fact that remarks, but I would also like to add that this portofolio is shared among various what you have mentioned in particular is Commissioners has always made this something which I used to encounter in my process difficult. An example is that legal practice – that is years ago, of course, mentioned by the colleague who spoke between 1980 and 1995 – when someone earlier regarding the mechanism of used to come to my office with a bill in his collective remedies, that were in fact hand for something which he had had no excluded from the recently presented intention of ordering; it used to be legislative packet on consumer protection encyclopaedias at that time, but it was not regarding financial products. So what online then. With online ordering today it measures will you take to ensure that has become even more dangerous. European citizens, especially vulnerable ones, enjoy the necessary remedies I rarely, for instance, purchase a book regarding that financial packet? without going online; I go to bookshops as well, but usually I purchase a book online. And finally, on a number of occasions More and more people are booking their today, you mentioned your commitment to holidays online, as well. So if we do not the Charter of Fundamental Rights. Do we tackle these misleading adverts, whether it understand you rightly: will your is directories, whether it is even commitment be unreserved? pharmaceuticals – because some 2-094 pharmaceuticals are sold online – if we are MT not actually going out to see what is Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. I happening in the Member States, we will know how committed you are to consumer lag behind in enforcement and we will not affairs, as I know that you are this be true to our commitments to the Parliament’s rapporteur on ADR, which, if consumers. adopted, will make a real difference in the European Union.
PV\921337PT.doc 31/50 PE501.924v01-00 PT rights and the Charter, these are documents As regards collective remedies, I have with which I feel close affinity. already stated that I am in favour, 2-095 personally in favour. I know that the EN majority of Member States are in favour, Chair. I would like to thank very much but I have to work with other all my Members for keeping to time and Commissioners. You made critical for the very sharp questions. I now hand reference to the fact that the portofolio is the gavel back to Matthias Groote. split, but I cannot comment on that as, if I 2-096 am approved, I will be part of the DE Commission, and will therefore defend IN THE CHAIR: MATTHIAS decisions even if they were taken earlier in GROOTE the Commission. But I will answer the Chair of the Committee on the same way as my predecessor did, I think, Environment, Public Health and Food when he was asked a similar question Safety about this split, namely that I take the view 2-097 that responsibilities are split such that Ms DE Reding takes care of consumer rights as Chair. – We now come to the fourth round such, whereas our role is more concerned of questions, by our colleagues from the with coordination and cooperation between Agriculture Committee. This will involve the Member States, which is a very five short questions, i.e. questions lasting important part of consumer affairs 50 seconds, with two minutes for Mr regarding the consumer affairs agenda Borg’s answers. itself. 2-098 DE You ask me whether I will be committed Albert Deß (PPE). – Dr Borg, I have one unreservedly to the Charter of Human simple question. On 18 October 2010 the Rights. The Charter of Human Rights European Parliament took a decision provides for no exceptions, being rather calling for agricultural imports into the EU drafted in the American style, whereby you to be authorised only if the products in enunciate principles and then leave question are manufactured in accordance exceptions, if any, to be established by the with European consumer protection, Court, and not Commissioners. I therefore animal welfare and environmental have neither mental reservations regarding protection standards and European the Charter of Human Rights nor effective minimum social standards. What action reservations, and I am pleased to see that will you take to ensure that this decision, the Charter itself, at least, does not impose adopted with 535 votes in favour, is many reserves or exceptions. It is true that implemented? each right is bounded by obligations: were 2-099 we to speak of rights exclusively without EN obligations, those rights themselves would Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. come to nothing. But no, I have no There is the law to apply and the law is reservations and I make this statement with very clear in this regard: that it would be the greatest tranquillity and honesty, unfair to close our eyes to imports which because my whole life has been bound up do not satisfy certain food safety standards with the struggle for human rights. I have and then impose them on our own farmers. made mistakes in my life too: it’s only those who never do anything who never This is I know a controversy which is make mistakes, but then their whole life is ongoing, which is sensitive. I understand a mistake. However, as regards human
PE501.924v01-00 32/50 PV\921337PT.doc PT why it is sensitive: because the single was again authorised for use as feed for market, this free market of 500 million non-ruminant animals, and that – consumers, should not discriminate now obviously – caused no problems at all. against EU farmers themselves. However, because the risk of cross- contamination still exists within farms, the But unlike the safety of products which are inspection system has to be very effective not agricultural, on agricultural products and thorough, and consumers must be kept we have the means to enforce these regularly informed in order to dispel all standards. We have the FVO, the Food and doubts. I should therefore like to know, Veterinary Office, in Grange in Ireland, Commissioner, how you intend to proceed which has a group of inspectors which do on this point once you have taken up your inspections not only within the European duties. Union but outside the European Union 2-101 itself. So they visit Argentina, Brazil and EN other countries, trying as much as possible Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. I to see to it that what enters this market of know something about this problem 500 million consumers is in accordance because I know the difficulties which were with the same standards as those we faced when there was the BSE outbreak, require of our own farmers. which created huge economic difficulties in those countries which were hit by the Can we increase this enforcement? We disease. I also know that certain harsh or, can. We have this package also on plant rather, important measures were health, animal health, seeds and official introduced to prevent the element of controls, which should enable us in this proteins in feed which is given to animals respect, and also the trade agreements which do not eat meat but are ruminants. which Europe signs with other countries. I appreciate that there are those who are I know that Russia has acceded to the saying: ‘Why do we not remove this ban – WTO. I know that there are some at least for those animals which can eat controversies regarding what is imported meat – so that we can introduce the protein and what is not allowed for us to export for element in their feed?’ But I also technical reasons. We should never use understand the difficulty of enforcing such these rules for protectionist purposes, but a repeal of the ban and mixing protein feed at the same time we should insist on other for animals which do not eat meat countries abiding by the obligations which (ruminants). they have assumed on entering the WTO, and I can assure you that I will insist on the There I will abide by the highest safety assumption of those obligations. standards, because the incidence of BSE
2-100 has decreased over the years rather PT significantly, thanks to the measures which Luis Manuel Capoulas Santos (S&D). – we adopted. To reopen this question – or to Just over a decade ago, as you know, be more lenient with regard to this ban – Commissioner, the EU had to deal with a could give rise to a future outbreak, which very serious public health problem, namely no one needs for a number of reasons. We mad cow disease. A lot of money was also have to be extremely conscious of spent on eradicating the disease, and meat safety with regard to our own food. It is and bone meal had to be banned, given that my opinion that, on these matters, we this was what caused the problem when we should proceed with the utmost caution. took it into our heads to turn ruminants 2-102 into carnivores. Later, meat and bone meal EN
PV\921337PT.doc 33/50 PE501.924v01-00 PT George Lyon (ALDE). – Dr Borg, animal working on it – is whether we should welfare is a very important topic within reopen in our animal welfare law this your portfolio, and especially the welfare question of whether the current rules are of animals during transport. Your enough, or whether they are enforceable. predecessor stated in the structured But perhaps I could continue with the dialogue in May that he did not support the supplementary question if it is on these idea of a general ban on transporting same lines. animals for slaughter for longer than eight 2-104 hours. Can you confirm whether you hold DE the same view? Martin Häusling (Verts/ALE). – Mr
2-103 Borg, you have called for Europe to EN become the world champion in the area of Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. consumer protection. Can I assume, First of all, Mr Chair, I must admit that I therefore, that you will also advocate the admire your efforts in this respect, whether retention of the zero-tolerance rule for you agree with them or not, because imports of non-authorised GMOs into sometimes animal welfare is considered to Europe? be something subsidiary, something which is not important, something which is Second question: there has been justified actually obstructing progress in several criticism of the EFSA – excessive fields as well, particularly in times of influence exerted by lobby groups, non- economic crisis. In times of economic transparent procedures and, above all, crisis the arguments are more: let us be problems in connection with the risk pragmatic, let us be utilitarian. assessment of GMOs. Will you advocate a reform of the EFSA and a revision of its I will be very honest with you, I will not risk assessment procedures for GMOs? promise something which I cannot deliver, And until such time as that reform is but I can promise two things. First of all, implemented and authorisation procedures the current animal transport regulations are have been reorganised at European level – not being enforced. Proof of this is the fact the key word here being renationalisation that I have never heard – perhaps you have of authorisation procedures – will you heard, but I did not hear – of any advocate a moratorium on the cultivation infringement proceedings against anyone, of GMOs?
against any Member State, regarding 2-105 animal transport according to the current EN regulations, let alone future ones. There Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. are, I think, more modern ways of doing On the unauthorised GMO level which we things better. have today, we have to be very careful. It has already been applied to food and the Why, for instance, should animal transport issue of whether it should be applied to vehicles not have navigation systems – feed and to other things is very today everyone has a navigation system – questionable to check whether the current rules of animal welfare as regards transport for Do I have to rely on EFSA or not? Well slaughter are being abided by or not? first of all, EFSA exists for a purpose: to provide real, solid, independent scientific The second thing – because I think I advice. It is always right to see that the should say that there is a proposal for a perception of this independence is general framework animal welfare law to something real and I will work hard on be launched next year, we are already that. But I will not abdicate my
PE501.924v01-00 34/50 PV\921337PT.doc PT responsibilities, because it is not EFSA think it is 0.9%, and that one has to adopt which authorises, but the Commissioner certain scientific criteria. himself. So the buck, as we say in English, stops here. As regards cultivation itself, I know that there is a Séralini report which I have to I shall not use EFSA for any purpose other consider and which is currently awaiting than that of seeking solid scientific final assessment by EFSA. But with regard evidence, but then it is up to me to decide to imports, I will abide by the rules as they on whether there should be an are today, unless EFSA indicates authorisation – general or conditional. By otherwise, in which case I will have to conditional, I mean either conditions in the authorise and decide myself. authorisation itself, or in its application. So my answer to your question is no, I shall I know that there are hectares – millions of not be a slave to EFSA, but neither should hectares – outside the European Union I ignore what EFSA says. where GMO products are cultivated. However, I also know that there is On GMO, I know the sensitivities of this resistance in this Parliament on this very file. I know the controversies which have sensitive issue, and it would therefore be occurred. I know how convenient it is for irresponsible for me not to take all views the Council to leave this matter in the into account, particularly those coming hands of the Commission and not push from this Parliament. forward any proposal, not even that of applying subsidiarity in cultivation I will not rush where angels fear to tread in proposals themselves. That is to say that a this matter. I will abide by what is called country will be free to allow cultivation or the precautionary principle, which I will not in its country on matters other than apply in a reasonable way: in matters health and environment, because health where there is no clear scientific evidence, and environment remain in the hands of one acts by keeping one step behind rather the Commission itself. than one step ahead.
2-106 2-108 EN DE James Nicholson (ECR). – Chair. That concludes the fourth round, Commissioner-designate, rather in a consisting of questions from our similar vein, I would like to ask you this colleagues in the Agriculture Committee. question. We in Europe do need and We now come to the final round, involving require to import a substantial amount and questions from nine colleagues. We will tonnage of grain and soya for our first have three long questions, i.e. with compound feed each year, mainly from the five minutes for each question and the United States and South America. Where possibility of putting a follow-up question. do you stand on GM imports to the EU and Then we will have six short questions. the need for more efficient licensing within 2-109 the European Union in order to tackle the EN high cost of food facing the industry at this Marina Yannakoudakis (ECR). – We moment in time? have talked about the EU budget, and I am
2-107 pleased you are not against sensible cuts. EN This is something my constituents demand. Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. I We have also talked about EU agencies, know the sensitivities on this issue, and I and I am pleased with your stance on also know all about labelling regarding conflicts of interests. I hope your band club GMO content above a certain amount, I work will not interfere with your work as
PV\921337PT.doc 35/50 PE501.924v01-00 PT Commissioner if confirmed. be utilised. For instance, I am informed that a huge number of patented medicines But what concrete plans do you have to will become generic medicines in a few combat the conflict of interests, revolving years’ time, which means that expenditure doors, poor management and questionable on medicines will be reduced. auditing at EU agencies? In the interests of value for money, will you propose sensible On conflicts of interest, I have already said cuts to their budgets? that the recommendations of the Court of Auditors as regards the two agencies which 2-110 DE come under my portfolio – they are not Chair. Mrs Yannakoudakis, it is good part of SANCO, as such, because they are that you are again asking a second independent – will be implemented, but I question, but perhaps we should return to will also consult the other Commissioners the subject in hand. I do not know if the to see whether we can have common rules Commissioner-designate will care to for all the independent agencies within the answer, as the question was not relevant to European Union.
the central theme. I leave it to you, Mr 2-112 Borg, to decide what to do in this case. DE Chair. Perhaps we could lower the noise 2-111 EN level a little, as it is very difficult for the Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. person sitting here – who has to reply to First of all, I will say one thing: I am a questions for three hours – and for those member of a band club, but I am not a who want to listen. If you do need to have bandsman myself. I do not actually play conversations – during this round – please music, I just support them. I do not think do so in the corridor but not here in the that would come into conflict with my room.
health and consumer affairs portfolio. If 2-113 there is even a remote chance of it doing SV so, I am sure that they would understand if Carl Schlyter (Verts/ALE). – You have I resigned from being an honorary already answered questions on issues member. This does not mean that I would including tobacco, GMOs and animals. not attend the band club on particular You have not given an answer on what occasions. legislative proposals you will use to implement the alcohol strategy. However, On sensible cuts, the problem is: what is in my view the main problem with your sensible? And in which areas should candidacy for Commissioner is your expenditure be reduced? When it comes to values. health, if you make cuts in an arbitrary manner, it is the usual people who suffer: If we are honest, all your sister parties in those who are vulnerable, either due to age Malta are against abortion. You say in your or circumstances. defence that this is an exclusive national competence. In spite of that, as Foreign But there are ways of reducing expenditure Minister you are responsible for Malta without necessarily reducing health insisting on unanimity in the EU so as to standards and healthcare, by using modern remove demands relating to sexual and technological methods. Today we have reproductive health from Beijing15+, the e-health scoreboards and e-health UN Foundation Fund for AIDS, networks, whereby the elderly can be Tuberculosis and Malaria, and the UN monitored from their own home. There are Ministerial Declaration on the new initiatives and innovations which can implementation of public health goals.
PE501.924v01-00 36/50 PV\921337PT.doc PT 2-116 EN How can we be sure that you do not intend Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. I to use your power as a Commission to have never addressed the United Nations achieve the same objectives, namely to on this issue. I have addressed it on several alter the EU’s whole policy in this area? issues regarding the Middle East and the 2-114 Mediterranean and the importance of EN having a Mediterranean policy but I, as Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate I Foreign Minister, have never addressed was not involved in Malta on anything health issues at all. They did not come connected with HIV, as far as I know. under my immediate remit. I attended the There the commitment is clear: we have General Assembly the last time I was at the the programmes, which would include the United Nations, but I did not mention this fight against HIV/Aids on the lines I subject at all. I was representing the Prime mentioned, that is to say diagnosis, Minister, as Deputy Prime Minister, and I prevention and cure and the removal of the talked mostly about political issues, stigma for HIV patients. This is a tragedy: because that is my strength. we should not play with people’s lives. So my opinion here is extremely clear. Now, of course, with all these dossiers regarding health and consumers which are As regards alcohol, I know this is so different from foreign affairs, I am something which exists in the same way getting used to these dossiers. I would like that cigarettes exist. I mentioned already to apologise if I have not understood each that this is something which has to be and every tiny detail of these dossiers. I implemented in our fight against diseases had only three weeks to prepare for this because, rather than fighting a disease in hearing, but please inform me if I said particular, we should fight the risk factors something for which I was not responsible themselves. I mentioned alcohol in or regarding the subject, because I do not particular, which does not mean that we recollect it. prohibit alcohol or ban alcohol, but we 2-117 must explain to those who consume FR alcohol the dangers and what happens Corinne Lepage (ALDE). – I should like when they consume alcohol, although we to return to the question of GMOs, the do not, of course, know exactly what expert report and the EFSA and ask you a happens within the system when alcohol is number of very straightforward questions. consumed in excessive amounts. Firstly, Parliament adopted on first reading 2-115 a text amending the GMO directive and is EN now awaiting the Council position. Are Carl Schlyter (Verts/ALE). – you in favour of us commencing the Commissioner-designate, I think you were second reading of a text approved by the not clear on my question on the fact that Council? Secondly, you indicated that you you have used your power as Foreign attached great importance to the Minister in Malta to change the whole of independence of the EFSA, which is very the EU position on sexual and reproductive gratifying. Will you take specific measures health on at least three occasions in the to ensure that this body is not only United Nations. endowed with the external trappings of independence but is also truly How can you convince me that you are not independent? In addition, do you intend to going to use your powers as EU review the assessment procedures, in Commissioner to do that to EU policy, on particular with regard to GMOs, as that basis?
PV\921337PT.doc 37/50 PE501.924v01-00 PT 2-119 requested by a number of European FR countries? Are you willing to review the Corinne Lepage (ALDE). – Do you relevant guidelines? intend to call for long-term toxicity studies 2-118 to establish the effects of GMOs on public EN health or will you be satisfied with short- Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. term studies covering a period of 90 days? Yes, it is important that the perception is This is extremely important. real but that the reality is real as well. I 2-120 mean, when I mentioned perception, I was EN not saying that we should have a good Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. perception and in reality there will be no As you know, Ms Lepage, when the independence at all. On the contrary, the Commission tried to impose a mandatory two should be linked together. So if I was 90 days on the companies who apply, there understood in that way, I would like to was no agreement on this issue either. So, clarify this question. I shall not be a slave if the 90 days were increased, you can of the EFSA, Ms Lepage. I mean, I am imagine the difficulties which would arise. very clear on this, which does not mean But I will abide by scientific evidence on that I will not give due consideration this point and also by the precautionary whenever the EFSA gives clear advice and principle in a reasonable way, namely that, solid scientific evidence on this question. in matters of doubt, one has to refer back.
On GMOs, I will not rush where angels Whether this means changing the methods fear to tread. Which does not mean that I of EFSA to ask it to detach itself from the will not take decisions on this matter; 90-day rule for testing in order to have a because there are implications in not taking longer period, is something which a decision, there are legal implications as scientific evidence has to support. But I am well. As you know, in the European Court sure that an independent EFSA would of Justice there is this possibility of change its methods if it felt that this was proceedings being brought forward for the right thing to do. I do not think that this failure to act. But let me give you an should be imposed by the Commission example: there is the Séralini report on itself. cultivation, which has been criticised not only by the EFSA, but also by national 2-121 PL agencies as well, as to its method of Jolanta Emilia Hibner (PPE). – Thank conducting research. If I do not have a you for your answers. I have just a short final assessment of that Séralini report, it is question: we already have an influenza important to have that final assessment vaccination period, and the annual report from the EFSA before moving to vaccination programme is set to continue any further action on this file. So we are in in the coming years. What role do you see the situation – you know what the situation yourself playing in stabilising the situation is – that the Council is leaving it up to the on the vaccinations market so as to ensure Commission to take decisions. After all, that positive recommendations are issued the authorisation is issued by the only in respect of firms whose vaccines Commissioner himself and not by the have been properly tested and are safe? EFSA. We have to be very careful with And one more quick question: do you regard to taking the right decisions, think that there is likely to be a repeat of because if we take the wrong decisions the recent panic about vaccines, and if they will have a lot of harmful effects there were, how would you react? either way. But at a certain moment in time a decision has to be taken.
PE501.924v01-00 38/50 PV\921337PT.doc PT 2-122 EN been pointed out that the counterfeiting of Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. products is seriously prejudicial to our We cannot live without vaccinations. Of manufacturers, especially in times of crisis. course we have to analyse all reports, all However, I feel that our prime concern scientific evidence, to ensure that when talking about counterfeit food vaccinations are safe. And sometimes we products or medical devices is that of also have to fight against any prejudices safety. there may be against vaccinations, because vaccinations save lives as well. By way of example, despite our rules and regulations, 24 million kilos of counterfeit What I was particularly perturbed about, food products worth a total of EUR 840 when there were health threats in the past million were impounded in my country, as regards outbreaks of diseases, was that Italy, last year. I would like to know what we as the European Union did not react in you plan to do to rectify this situation, a wholesome way. Each one of us thought which is so prejudicial to health and safety that we could fight it alone, until we in the EU and to its economy. realised that we could not. In accordance 2-124 with the subsidiarity principle too, when IT matters cannot be decided by the States Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. I themselves, I believe that the Commission am aware of this problem. Such problems and the Centre should intervene to protect also beget unfair competition, because the health of 500 million consumers, that is people who abide by the law are 500 million people. Therefore, even on the discriminated against to the benefit of specific subject of vaccination which you people who do not. mentioned, one should address it in the Health Threats Directive which is being I am also aware of the problems stemming discussed in Parliament already. We will, I from the fact that we have very stringent hope, continue with this discussion later on rules on inspections outside countries for if I am confirmed. agricultural products, whereas this is not an option for the non agricultural products Can we find a legal basis to have common we import. I cannot say I am satisfied with procurement for vaccines so that there will the way the rules are being implemented, not be a repeat of last time, when some but I am impressed at the fact that several Member States had huge quantities of million counterfeit – and sometimes vaccines, more than they required, and hazardous – products have been others did not? And of course to prevent impounded by our agencies. We must speculation, which arises each time there is work more closely with them, because an outbreak of disease and prices shoot up. counterfeit products are causing major Some Member States – I remember the economic damage in some countries. experience of my country in this regard – were literally fleeced in the prices which There is even greater danger when those they had to pay for vaccines. This could be products are medical devices, because at prevented through this joint procurement, that point this becomes a human health which would also be an example of issue. In the case of some medical devices solidarity on vaccines between the there is a high risk, and we need a swifter Member States. and more flexible control system than we have at the moment. There have been 2-123 IT dreadful cases of children being injured by Elisabetta Gardini (PPE). – It has already imported non agricultural products, and we also know that certain medical devices
PV\921337PT.doc 39/50 PE501.924v01-00 PT have led to the deaths of hundreds of and in some areas, as in the delivery of women in the EU. health services, whatever I think and whatever you think and whatever we all 2-125 SV think, it is a question where my services, if Åsa Westlund (S&D). – You have I am confirmed as Commissioner, do not answered very cleverly, Mr Borg. You involve themselves. They cannot be refer to current legislation and to the fact involved in the delivery of the services that the issue of abortion is one for every themselves or in which kind of health Member State to decide, and you say that services and whether it is for the purpose you will comply with what the of a cross-border healthcare directive Commission has already decided. But I am which we have to implement. This is a sorry, with that attitude we could just as decision of the Member States. well appoint a puppet as Commissioner. Being a Commissioner means taking And I am not saying it today because I responsibility for the future, for prepared my dossier. It is a question that forthcoming legislation, and that is what has been put repeatedly to different we are interested in. Commissioners. I have looked up all the parliamentary questions which most MEPs You have repeatedly said that the issue of have asked on these sensitive issues. The abortion is a question for the Member answer has always been the same, States. In my view it is a question for each irrespective of whether one has one view individual woman. As you know, or the other: that these are matters which throughout the world nearly 70 000 women have to be decided by the Member State. a year die owing to the absence of safe and legal abortions. And I am sure that this is Each one of us has his own personal views. also a problem within the EU. So how will God forbid that we should all be you, as Commissioner for health, work to regimented into thinking in one way. God ensure that the state of women’s forbid. But I will abide by the Treaties. I reproductive health in Europe becomes will not interfere with programmes which better than it is at present? We do not want already exist because it would be illegal the status quo; we want to improve the for me to do so, and also I have no situation. intention of doing so.
2-126 2-127 EN DE Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. It Karl-Heinz Florenz (PPE). – Dr Borg, as is not a question of being intelligent, smart we approach the finish, let me congratulate or clever. It is a question of abiding by the you on your presentation. Treaties and it is very clear that on these issues, whether to allow or not allow I have one question (or rather, two small certain practices, this is in the hands of the ones): we have in environment policy the Member States. I did not make these principle of producer responsibility. Could Treaties. These Treaties have been you imagine a situation whereby the sanctioned by all Member States because, healthcare and treatment costs resulting as you know, we are not a federation. from tobacco consumption were passed on in future to tobacco products? We are a sui generis kind of organisation of sovereign states which have pooled their My second question, which I cannot sovereignty. In certain respects there is refrain from asking, is this: I enjoyed a exclusive competence of the Commission. successful working relationship with your In other areas there is shared competence predecessor. How can you ensure that he
PE501.924v01-00 40/50 PV\921337PT.doc PT will have proper access to documents in that is for the co-decision makers – order to defend himself? Parliament and the Commission – to decide. I will certainly not weaken the 2-128 EN directive that is currently in the pipeline.
Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. 2-129 The second question, Mr Florenz, is very EN difficult for me to answer because I abide Dagmar Roth-Behrendt (S&D). – by the laws of this Institution and will Commissioner-designate, a question in two accede to any request which is made parts on animal welfare. First, do you according to the laws of this Institution. agree with me that existing legislation like You understand that it is very the cosmetics legislation has to be embarrassing for me to say anything. It is implemented and enforced as it stands not prudent for me to say anything on this without any changes and that the last bit of case. it will apply and be implemented next year in March? I already stated at the beginning that there has been a resignation; the resignation For the second part, coming back to animal means there has to be a substitution and the transport, we had assurances from two of two issues, as the Presidency has said, your predecessors that there would be a should be kept completely distinct from revision of the animal transport time and one another. They do not influence each that we would get a legislative proposal other. going beyond what you said about enforcement. Could you again try to I can assure you, Mr Florenz, that my door commit yourself so that we will get a piece will be open not only to you but to all of legislation on the transport of animals?
MEPs on matters of relevance to my 2-130 portfolio. This is not – I repeat – because it EN is politically convenient for me to do so, Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. but because it is the right thing to do. I On the first issue of animal welfare and have been a parliamentarian for twenty cosmetic legislation, I have already said years, I am used to scrutiny by parliament, that it is such a laborious process for but I am used also to collaborating with legislation to pass through this procedure. parliament because I am a parliamentarian There is a reason for this, because this is a myself. We have the British system, law which will not only apply in Germany whereby in order to be a minister, one also or in Malta, it will be a law for an entire has to be a parliamentarian. Now some continent, so it makes sense that there is a people criticise that system; I like it long, laborious process. because it means that you always have to be on your toes and test what you are Then when a law is passed, sometimes also proposing in parliament with your with a transitional period, we try to invent constituents. something to avoid its implementation. I think this is not fair. There is a Latin Regarding the Tobacco Directive, you maxim, facta lex, inventa fraus. The understand that this is something that moment a law is passed, we try to find everybody is expecting, partly as a matter something to derogate from it. of credibility; because there are some who think that what has happened will delay the I do not think it would be right to do so launch of the directive, and we have to with this dossier. I believe that the ban beware of proving them right. As to what should enter into force as Parliament and will be contained in the Tobacco Directive, the Council have already decided. We
PV\921337PT.doc 41/50 PE501.924v01-00 PT should monitor the effects of that ban Environment be? Will you first consult us because we all do things here on an impact before making a submission? How often assessment basis, even after they are will you visit us and how intensive do you implemented. I would add another reason: intend contact with us to be? I think it is if we do not do so, the industry will never vital for us to know that you are taking try and find alternative means of testing Parliament seriously and are listening to rather than animal testing for cosmetics. In us. We know that we have no right of the English language there is a dictum initiative in the interinstitutional which says, ‘necessity is the mother of framework. Will you listen to us, and what invention’. When you are forced to look will your approach to Parliament be? for alternative things, you will find them. It 2-132 could take some time but you will find EN them. So yes the ban has to enter into force Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. in March 2013. Of course no person in their right senses sitting in my place today, or on any other On animal transport, I am used to promises day, would say that he would not come to coming back like boomerangs and I do not consult. But I have to be honest with you. I want you or anyone else to throw this will use my time, as much as possible, to boomerang at me to elicit a promise, but I maintain this link with the only real will certainly see what we can do with democratic institution inside the European other Commissioners, apart from Union, which is directly elected by the enforcement, and assess the impact of people and has increased powers in the co- improving the current rules – not decision procedure after the Lisbon Treaty. committing myself to the eight-hour transport rule, but to improving that rule. But I would like to persuade each one of That I can promise. you – those who agree with me and those
2-131 who do not agree with me, those who DE would be in favour of my approval and Richard Seeber (PPE). – Dr Borg, as the those who would feel hesitant about it – final speaker, let me say that your that I feel comfortable in Parliament performance here has been most because I am a parliamentarian myself. impressive. I think you have not only That makes a difference. worked intelligently but you have also shown that you will act in accordance with I am not saying that technocrat ministers or the European Charter of Fundamental Commissioners who have never contested Rights. And I think this is the most election and who have never gone to knock important thing for us here in Parliament. on the doors of constituents, as I have, are not capable of understanding people’s Your political career also encompassed the needs. It would be like saying that a role of environment minister. I would be gynaecologist does not know about the interested in knowing what your approach birth of children because he never gave in the College of Commissioners will be birth to a child. But the fact that I sit in when environmental matters are being Parliament, that I am accountable to discussed. This is, after all, the Committee Parliament and that I am scrutinised by on the Environment and Health. Will you Parliament gives you a slight advantage. give your support to these matters? You have to use it. If you do not use it, if you ignore it or let it die, of course it does My second question is this: what will the not make any difference. But, if you really nature of your specific relationship with feel that you are a parliamentarian elected Parliament and the Committee on the by the people for a purpose – as I do – then
PE501.924v01-00 42/50 PV\921337PT.doc PT it makes a difference in one’s relations that, when we present a proposal, it has with Parliament. already been sifted, even within Parliament, to assess the impact on I always tell my collaborators back in industry. We are not people with power Malta not to complain when they receive without responsibility. I agree fully with parliamentary questions because usually this comment which was made to me, and you receive parliamentary questions on each time that we meet – if I am points in which your department is weak, confirmed, and if I have the pleasure of and we can deal with that weakness. So I serving you as well – I will always hope that these words will be turned into remember this remark. When Parliament action, but you will have to decide decides something, it has behind it also the afterwards, if you approve me, whether I democratic cachet of millions of citizens, have fulfilled this promise or not. and it also takes into consideration other matters which are not traditionally linked (Applause) to Parliament.
2-133 DE My ambition, if I am approved – I repeat – Chair. We have reached the end of the is first to submit an ambitious tobacco question round. You now have the floor for proposal in January; second – a promise five minutes (or less, if you so wish) for a which I shall keep – to respect the March closing statement, after which Mr Harbour 2013 deadline on animal testing for will speak and then I will finish. cosmetics; third, to present a proposal on cloning by mid-2013 which fully addresses 2-134 EN the animal welfare issues; and fourth – and Tonio Borg, Commissioner-designate. this will be the most difficult part – to Mr Chair, thank you for the indulgence on invest even more in better enforcement. this international day of courtesy. I think it was a proper dialogue. It is not a question I hope that I have succeeded in of being smart or clever; it is just a demonstrating that, since my early political question of being myself. career in Malta – I joined the National I must say that – and please believe me Party at the age of 17 – I have been an when I say it – what you see is what you ardent defender and promoter of the get. There is no hidden agenda, there is no European idea, both in easy times and in hidden anything. I have tried to answer difficult times, and that I fully abide by the your questions as comprehensively as key European values, including those of possible. Please forgive me for my non-discrimination. I would be ready for, mistakes, since perhaps I could not answer and indeed count on, very close all of your questions. There is, after all, a cooperation with Parliament. Thank you certain limit to what one can do in three very much. Thank you for your courtesy, weeks. But the enthusiasm behind your and I hope that we will have the questions helps me to understand that this opportunity to work together in the near is really a people’s portfolio. This is not future. discussing general things as we usually do in Foreign Affairs; this is actually the real (Applause) thing. Parliamentarians all over the world, 2-135 if they fulfil their duties as they should, EN always have a direct hotline to their Malcolm Harbour (ECR), Chair of the constituents. Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection. – First of all I just Someone told me in the rounds I was doing want to thank the Committee on the
PV\921337PT.doc 43/50 PE501.924v01-00 PT Environment, Public Health and Food Dr Borg. Safety once again and you, Mr Groote, as Chair, for allowing members of my Given the short period of time you had to committee to play a very focused role in prepare – less than three weeks – I believe this hearing. I think that was important as you have answered all the questions. You we take our responsibilities for consumers have showed that you have mastered your very seriously. brief, but also that you are a person to be reckoned with. What we have managed to I would just reflect on what Dr Borg said do today, I believe, is to separate the issue right at the beginning where he talked of your suitability from the case of John about the portfolio being ‘Europe on the Dalli, with whom we in the European ground’ and really meaning something to Parliament had a good working citizens. I think we have covered a huge relationship, who is always welcome here amount of ground between us this and who enjoyed a good reputation here. afternoon. You have given us a lot to Today, however, it has been emphasised reflect on at our meetings, Dr Borg, but once again that he should be granted fair what I would say is that you have made a access to documents concerning the case, lot of important commitments to us this that this chapter should finally be closed, afternoon and we will certainly, if you are but in a fair manner. approved, be recording those. You said you wanted an honest and frank Today you have dealt with four aspects of relationship with Parliament, but it will be your work. For us it is very important that based around a lot of those commitments, the tobacco directive should come into if that is what Parliament decides. force. You have made other pledges, and – although I am in no way anticipating the I think, Mr Groote, that it is has been the assessment – you will be judged on the mark of a very successful and well way that you honour those pledges. You organised hearing that we have managed to will be the Commissioner for 500 million explore a lot of issues related not just to EU citizens. The most important thing that the portfolio of the Internal Market these people have is their health. For that Committee and the other committees, but reason, this is a very sensitive area. You also a number of other issues as well in a will have a huge amount of responsibility, relatively short time. So thank you for that. and I should like to express my heartfelt gratitude at the fact that we have Just on an administrative announcement, conducted a fair hearing today, at the fact can I invite all the coordinators from the that politeness prevailed, on the day of Internal Market Committee to meet politeness. Mr Pargneaux made this very upstairs in Room 6Q2 at 18.15, when we point this morning. will consider our analysis of the hearing, which I will then be able to deliver to the In conclusion, I should like to thank the 15 Environment Committee Coordinators at Parliament departments, which, despite the their meeting at 19.00. Thank you once time constraints, worked together to again. I think it has been a really important arrange this hearing in a manner which afternoon’s work that we have done reflects its importance. I should like to together. inform the coordinators from the Committee on the Environment that we 2-136 DE will meet in this room, 2Q2, at 19.00 to Chair. In conclusion, I should like to say draw up the assessment. Take this that today has been a good day, that you opportunity to relax, and I wish everyone have given a good performance here today, whose work is now complete a pleasant
PE501.924v01-00 44/50 PV\921337PT.doc PT evening.
(Applause)
(The hearing closed at 18.10)
PV\921337PT.doc 45/50 PE501.924v01-00 PT PE501.924v01-00 46/50 PV\921337PT.doc PT ПРИСЪСТВЕН ЛИСТ/LISTA DE ASISTENCIA/PREZENČNÍ LISTINA/DELTAGERLISTE/ ANWESENHEITSLISTE/KOHALOLIJATE NIMEKIRI/ΚΑΤΑΣΤΑΣΗ ΠΑΡΟΝΤΩΝ/RECORD OF ATTENDANCE/ LISTE DE PRÉSENCE/ELENCO DI PRESENZA/APMEKLĒJUMU REĢISTRS/DALYVIŲ SĄRAŠAS/JELENLÉTI ÍV/ REĠISTRU TA' ATTENDENZA/PRESENTIELIJST/LISTA OBECNOŚCI/LISTA DE PRESENÇAS/LISTĂ DE PREZENŢĂ/ PREZENČNÁ LISTINA/SEZNAM NAVZOČIH/LÄSNÄOLOLISTA/DELTAGARLISTA
Бюро/Mesa/Předsednictvo/Formandskabet/Vorstand/Juhatus/Προεδρείο/Bureau/Ufficio di presidenza/Prezidijs/Biuras/Elnökség/ Prezydium/Birou/Predsedníctvo/Predsedstvo/Puheenjohtajisto/Presidiet (*)
Matthias Groote, Christa Klaß, Carl Schlyter
Членове/Diputados/Poslanci/Medlemmer/Mitglieder/Parlamendiliikmed/Μέλη/Members/Députés/Deputati/Deputāti/Nariai/Képviselõk/ Membri/Leden/Posłowie/Deputados/Deputaţi/Jäsenet/Ledamöter
Elena Oana Antonescu, Sophie Auconie, Pilar Ayuso, Nessa Childers, Chris Davies, Anne Delvaux, Bas Eickhout, Edite Estrela, Karl- Heinz Florenz, Elisabetta Gardini, Françoise Grossetête, Satu Hassi, Jolanta Emilia Hibner, Karin Kadenbach, Eija-Riitta Korhola, Holger Krahmer, Corinne Lepage, Peter Liese, Kartika Tamara Liotard, Linda McAvan, Zofija Mazej Kukovič, Gilles Pargneaux, Andres Perello Rodriguez, Pavel Poc, Frédérique Ries, Dagmar Roth-Behrendt, Daciana Octavia Sârbu, Horst Schnellhardt, Richard Seeber, Bogusław Sonik, Anja Weisgerber, Åsa Westlund, Glenis Willmott, Sabine Wils, Marina Yannakoudakis
Заместници/Suplentes/Náhradníci/Stedfortrædere/Stellvertreter/Asendusliikmed/Αναπληρωτές/Substitutes/Suppléants/Supplenti/ Aizstājēji/Pavaduojantys nariai/Póttagok/Sostituti/Plaatsvervangers/Zastępcy/Membros suplentes/Supleanţi/Náhradníci/Namestniki/ Varajäsenet/Suppleanter
Cristian Silviu Buşoi, Minodora Cliveti, Christofer Fjellner, Romana Jordan, Filip Kaczmarek, Miroslav Mikolášik, Alojz Peterle, Vittorio Prodi, Britta Reimers, Michèle Rivasi, Christel Schaldemose, Birgit Schnieber-Jastram, Edward Scicluna, Giancarlo Scottà, Rebecca Taylor, Marita Ulvskog, Kathleen Van Brempt, Anna Záborská, Andrea Zanoni
187 (2)
Adam Bielan, Mario Borghezio, Simon Busuttil, Luis Manuel Capoulas Santos, Evelyne Gebhardt, Louis Grech, Malcolm Harbour, Martin Häusling, Cornelis de Jong, George Lyon, Toine Manders, James Nicholson, Franz Obermayr, Andreas Schwab, Emilie Turunen
193 (3)
Michael Cashman, Carlo Casini, Birgit Collin-Langen, Marije Cornelissen, Albert Deß, Marielle Gallo, Béla Glattfelder, Ingeborg Gräßle, Małgorzata Handzlik, Elisabeth Jeggle, Astrid Lulling, Antonio Masip Hidalgo, Alajos Mészáros, Gay Mitchell, Rolandas Paksas, Jaroslav Paška, Paul Rübig, Petri Sarvamaa, Róża Gräfin von Thun und Hohenstein, Corien Wortmann-Kool, Olle Schmidt, Barbara Weiler, Cecilia Wikström, Bernadette Vergnaud, Petri Sarvamaa, Heide Rühle, Ulrike Lunacek, Edvard Kožušník, Anna Hedh, Herbert Dorfmann, Joseph Cuschieri, David Casa, John Attard-Montalto, Pablo Arias Echeverría, Csaba Sógor, Ana Gomes, Ingeborg Gräßle, Jörg Leichtfried
49 (6) (Точка от дневния ред/Punto del orden del día/Bod pořadu jednání (OJ)/Punkt på dagsordenen/Tagesordnungspunkt/Päevakorra punkt/Ημερήσια Διάταξη Σημείο/Agenda item/Point OJ/Punto all'ordine del giorno/Darba kārtības punkts/Darbotvarkės punktas/ Napirendi pont/Punt fuq l-aġenda/Agendapunt/Punkt porządku dziennego/Ponto OD/Punct de pe ordinea de zi/Bod programu schôdze/ Točka UL/Esityslistan kohta/Föredragningslista punkt)
Наблюдатели/Observadores/Pozorovatelé/Observatører/Beobachter/Vaatlejad/Παρατηρητές/Observers/Observateurs/Osservatori/ Novērotāji/Stebėtojai/Megfigyelők/Osservaturi/Waarnemers/Obserwatorzy/Observadores/Observatori/Pozorovatelia/Opazovalci/ Tarkkailijat/Observatörer
Romana Jerković
PV\921337PT.doc 47/50 PE501.924v01-00 PT По покана на председателя/Por invitación del presidente/Na pozvání předsedy/Efter indbydelse fra formanden/Auf Einladung des Vorsitzenden/Esimehe kutsel/Με πρόσκληση του Προέδρου/At the invitation of the Chair(wo)man/Sur l'invitation du président/ Su invito del presidente/Pēc priekšsēdētāja uzaicinājuma/Pirmininkui pakvietus/Az elnök meghívására/Fuq stedina tal-President/ Op uitnodiging van de voorzitter/Na zaproszenie Przewodniczącego/A convite do Presidente/La invitaţia preşedintelui/Na pozvanie predsedu/Na povabilo predsednika/Puheenjohtajan kutsusta/På ordförandens inbjudan
Съвет/Consejo/Rada/Rådet/Rat/Nõukogu/Συμβούλιο/Council/Conseil/Consiglio/Padome/Taryba/Tanács/Kunsill/Raad/Conselho/ Consiliu/Svet/Neuvosto/Rådet (*)
Комисия/Comisión/Komise/Kommissionen/Kommission/Euroopa Komisjon/Επιτροπή/Commission/Commissione/Komisija/Bizottság/ Kummissjoni/Commissie/Komisja/Comissão/Comisie/Komisia/Komissio/Kommissionen (*)
Други институции/Otras instituciones/Ostatní orgány a instituce/Andre institutioner/Andere Organe/Muud institutsioonid/ Άλλα θεσμικά όργανα/Other institutions/Autres institutions/Altre istituzioni/Citas iestādes/Kitos institucijos/Más intézmények/ Istituzzjonijiet oħra/Andere instellingen/Inne instytucje/Outras Instituições/Alte instituţii/Iné inštitúcie/Druge institucije/Muut toimielimet/Andra institutioner/organ
Други участници/Otros participantes/Ostatní účastníci/Endvidere deltog/Andere Teilnehmer/Muud osalejad/Επίσης Παρόντες/Other participants/Autres participants/Altri partecipanti/Citi klātesošie/Kiti dalyviai/Más résztvevők/Parteċipanti oħra/Andere aanwezigen/ Inni uczestnicy/Outros participantes/Alţi participanţi/Iní účastníci/Drugi udeleženci/Muut osallistujat/Övriga deltagare
Секретариат на политическите групи/Secretaría de los Grupos políticos/Sekretariát politických skupin/Gruppernes sekretariat/ Sekretariat der Fraktionen/Fraktsioonide sekretariaat/Γραμματεία των Πολιτικών Ομάδων/Secretariats of political groups/Secrétariat des groupes politiques/Segreteria gruppi politici/Politisko grupu sekretariāts/Frakcijų sekretoriai/Képviselőcsoportok titkársága/Segretarjat gruppi politiċi/Fractiesecretariaten/Sekretariat Grup Politycznych/Secr. dos grupos políticos/Secretariate grupuri politice/Sekretariát politických skupín/Sekretariat političnih skupin/Poliittisten ryhmien sihteeristöt/Gruppernas sekretariat
PPE Gersony, Dentler, Wynands, Masson, Gölz, Roig, Lejko S&D Bertulessi, McCone, Dimitrakoudi, Schöner ALDE Gierstorfer, Bargum, Sauerteig, Hal'ko ECR Milackova, Lindsay Kirkman Gilbert, Majerczyk, Healy, Cassidy Verts/ALE Wylie, Hundsdorfer, Singhofen GUE/NGL Pantazidou, Manta EFD Campomenosi, Bonomo NI
PE501.924v01-00 48/50 PV\921337PT.doc PT Кабинет на председателя/Gabinete del Presidente/Kancelář předsedy/Formandens Kabinet/Kabinett des Präsidenten/Presidendi kantselei/Γραφείο Προέδρου/President's Office/Cabinet du Président/Gabinetto del Presidente/Priekšsēdētāja kabinets/Pirmininko kabinetas/Elnöki hivatal/Kabinett tal-President/Kabinet van de Voorzitter/Gabinet Przewodniczącego/Gabinete do Presidente/ Cabinet Preşedinte/Kancelária predsedu/Urad predsednika/Puhemiehen kabinetti/Talmannens kansli
Кабинет на генералния секретар/Gabinete del Secretario General/Kancelář generálního tajemníka/Generalsekretærens Kabinet/ Kabinett des Generalsekretärs/Peasekretäri büroo/Γραφείο Γενικού Γραμματέα/Secretary-General's Office/Cabinet du Secrétaire général/Gabinetto del Segretario generale/Ģenerālsekretāra kabinets/Generalinio sekretoriaus kabinetas/Főtitkári hivatal/Kabinett tas- Segretarju Ġenerali/Kabinet van de secretaris-generaal/Gabinet Sekretarza Generalnego/Gabinete do Secretário-Geral/Cabinet Secretar General/Kancelária generálneho tajomníka/Urad generalnega sekretarja/Pääsihteerin kabinetti/Generalsekreterarens kansli
Fernandez Perles
Генерална дирекция/Dirección General/Generální ředitelství/Generaldirektorat/Generaldirektion/Peadirektoraat/Γενική Διεύθυνση/ Directorate-General/Direction générale/Direzione generale/Ģenerāldirektorāts/Generalinis direktoratas/Főigazgatóság/Direttorat Ġenerali/Directoraten-generaal/Dyrekcja Generalna/Direcção-Geral/Direcţii Generale/Generálne riaditeľstvo/Generalni direktorat/ Pääosasto/Generaldirektorat
DG PRES O'Beara, Frechauth, Kaiser, Freedman, Schenk, DG IPOL DG EXPO DG COMM Coakley, Chatain, Schranz DG PERS DG INLO DG TRAD DG INTE DG FINS DG ITEC Правна служба/Servicio Jurídico/Právní služba/Juridisk Tjeneste/Juristischer Dienst/Õigusteenistus/Νομική Υπηρεσία/Legal Service/ Service juridique/Servizio giuridico/Juridiskais dienests/Teisės tarnyba/Jogi szolgálat/Servizz legali/Juridische Dienst/Wydział prawny/ Serviço Jurídico/Serviciu Juridic/Právny servis/Pravna služba/Oikeudellinen yksikkö/Rättstjänsten
Gomez-Leal
Секретариат на комисията/Secretaría de la comisión/Sekretariát výboru/Udvalgssekretariatet/Ausschusssekretariat/Komisjoni sekretariaat/Γραμματεία επιτροπής/Committee secretariat/Secrétariat de la commission/Segreteria della commissione/Komitejas sekretariāts/Komiteto sekretoriatas/A bizottság titkársága/Segretarjat tal-kumitat/Commissiesecretariaat/Sekretariat komisji/ Secretariado da comissão/Secretariat comisie/Sekretariat odbora/Valiokunnan sihteeristö/Utskottssekretariatet
A. Huber, Romano, Kovacheva, Laky, Vervloet, Leraillez, DellaFaille
Сътрудник/Asistente/Asistent/Assistent/Assistenz/Βοηθός/Assistant/Assistente/Palīgs/Padėjėjas/Asszisztens/Asystent/Pomočnik/ Avustaja/Assistenter
Kurittu
* (P) = Председател/Presidente/Předseda/Formand/Vorsitzender/Esimees/Πρόεδρος/Chair(wo)man/Président/Priekšsēdētājs/Pirmininkas/ Elnök/President/Voorzitter/Przewodniczący/Preşedinte/Predseda/Predsednik/Puheenjohtaja/Ordförande (VP) = Заместник-председател/Vicepresidente/Místopředseda/Næstformand/Stellvertretender Vorsitzender/Aseesimees/Αντιπρόεδρος/ Vice-Chair(wo)man/Vice-Président/Priekšsēdētāja vietnieks/Pirmininko pavaduotojas/Alelnök/Viċi President/Ondervoorzitter/ Wiceprzewodniczący/Vice-Presidente/Vicepreşedinte/Podpredseda/Podpredsednik/Varapuheenjohtaja/Vice ordförande (M) = Член/Miembro/Člen/Medlem./Mitglied/Parlamendiliige/Μέλος/Member/Membre/Membro/Deputāts/Narys/Képviselő/ Membru/Lid/Członek/Membro/Membru/Člen/Poslanec/Jäsen/Ledamot (F) = Длъжностно лице/Funcionario/Úředník/Tjenestemand/Beamter/Ametnik/Υπάλληλος/Official/Fonctionnaire/Funzionario/ Ierēdnis/Pareigūnas/Tisztviselő/Uffiċjal/Ambtenaar/Urzędnik/Funcionário/Funcţionar/Úradník/Uradnik/Virkamies/Tjänsteman
PV\921337PT.doc 49/50 PE501.924v01-00 PT PE501.924v01-00 50/50 PV\921337PT.doc PT