Tag Archives: TE

Technical implications of road safety

Leave a reply

Technical implications of road safety

Outline of the Community (European Union) legislation about Technical implications of road safety

Topics

These categories group together and put in context the legislative and non-legislative initiatives which deal with the same topic.

Internal market > Motor vehicles > Technical implications of road safety

Technical implications of road safety

The technical implications of road safety cover both vehicle and infrastructure safety. By 2020, the European Commission aims to halve the number of deaths on the roads (in relation to the 2010 figures) in the European Union (EU).
To achieve this objective, the Commission promotes the use of modern technologies to improve road safety. It defines a legislative framework which aims to make vehicles and road infrastructure safer. The protection of vulnerable passengers is also a policy priority.

GENERAL PROVISIONS

  • General safety of motor vehicles
  • Road safety: Road Safety Action Programme (2003-2010)
  • Road safety: cross-border application of the legislation
  • EC type-approval system for motor vehicles

SPECIFIC PROVISIONS

Restraint devices for passengers

  • Passenger restraint devices on two-wheel vehicles
  • Compulsory fitting of safety belts

Vehicle protection in the event of impact

  • Motor vehicles with trailers: front underrun protection devices (until 2014)
  • Motor vehicles with trailers: protection of occupants in the event of a frontal impact (until 2014)
  • Motor vehicles with trailers: behaviour of steering device under impact (until 2014)
  • Motor vehicles with trailers: lateral protection for goods vehicles (until 2014)

Reduction of blind spots

  • Rear-view mirrors and supplementary devices for indirect vision (until 2014)

Protection of vulnerable road users

  • Protection of pedestrians and vulnerable road users
  • Protection of pedestrians and other vulnerable road users
  • Vulnerable road users and frontal protection systems

Control devices

  • Speed limitation on-board devices of certain categories of motor vehicles (until 2014)
  • Maximum authorised settings for speed limitation devices in commercial vehicles
  • Driving time in the road transport sector

Intelligent automobile security systems

  • Le service eCall
    (FR)
  • eCall: Time for deployment
  • eSafety: the use of information and communication technology (ICT) for road safety
  • In-vehicle emergency call system “eCall” (Second eSafety Communication)
  • i2010 Intelligent Car Initiative (third eSafety communication)

Television in the 16:9 screen format

Leave a reply

Television in the 16:9 screen format

Outline of the Community (European Union) legislation about Television in the 16:9 screen format

Topics

These categories group together and put in context the legislative and non-legislative initiatives which deal with the same topic.

Other

Television in the 16:9 screen format

1) Objective

To ensure the accelerated development of the market for advanced television services in the 16:9 format, using 625 or 1250 lines to contribute to the market penetration of television receivers in the 16:9 format.

2) Document or Iniciative

Council Decision 93/424/EEC of 22 July 1993 on an action plan for the introduction of advanced television services in Europe [Official Journal L 196, 05.08.1993].

3) Summary

The Decision provides for an action plan for the introduction of advanced television services in Europe. The programme covers the period from 22 July 1993 to 30 June 1997.

The objectives of the action plan are two-fold:

  • to achieve a critical mass of advanced television services in the 16:9 format;
  • to arrive at a sufficient and increasing volume of programming in the 16:9 format with high technical quality to facilitate an optimum audience rating.

Funds amounting to ECU 405 million have been earmarked for these objectives; these are Community funds (ECU 228 million) and funds from other sources (own funds, national funds, equipment manufacturers, satellite operators and others with interests in the sector). Funds will partly cover the additional costs to broadcasters and programme producers of providing advanced television services. Preference will be given to projects receiving parallel funding from economic operators. No funds will be given to support manufacturers of receivers for the consumer market.

4) Implementing Measures

–

5) Follow-Up Work

First annual report on progress on implementing the Action Plan for the introduction of advanced television services in Europe. Report from the Commission to the Council, the European Parliament and the Economic and Social Committee of 16 June 1995 [COM(95) 263 final].

This report essentially covers two aspects: the production and conversion of programmes and broadcasting.
As regards the production and conversion of programmes, the following preliminary conclusions can be drawn with regard to the performance of the Action Plan:

  • the Action Plan has made it possible to inform programme producers and broadcasters in Europe about the new technologies and the new generation of television. They have been encouraged to think European. The circulation of programmes in Europe is a crucial matter in a market where programmes are still very few and far between in some countries;
  • the independent production sector is showing encouraging signs of development;
  • the European Union’s contribution has helped to arouse the interest of and obtain support from economic operators, opening up other sources of funding;
  • however, the independent producers are still in a difficult economic position and their cash flow is often subject to constraints which makes Community aid vital. Community measures to reinforce the diversity of this sector must go hand in hand with structural reinforcement.

On the subject of broadcasting, two elements have to be taken into consideration:

  • from a supply side perspective, the achievement of 22 services in eight Member States testifies to the interest of the broadcasters and their willingness to participate in offering 16:9 to the public under the conditions set out in the Council’s Decision. It is however too early to assess the impact of Action Plan broadcast funding. There is a lag between the time when broadcast funding is committed and when it affects the market. The impact on the consumer electronics market should become evident towards the end of 1995 and during the first quarter of 1996;
  • the Commission considers the introduction of the 16:9 format to be a strategic element bringing in new services and products which the audiovisual and consumer electronics market can offer to the public in the convergent future of the Information Society. In particular, it reflects the long-standing convergence between cinema and television.

Second annual report on progress in implementing the Action Plan for the introduction of advanced television services in Europe. Report from the Commission to the Council, the European Parliament and the Economic and Social Committee, of 26 July 1996 [COM(96) 346 final – Not published in the Official Journal].

This report for 1995 shows how the Action Plan for the introduction of advanced television services has triggered the first stage in the transition from the old 4:3 screen format to the 16:9 wide screen. It describes the progress since last year’s report and the future prospects of this programme. It is divided into two sections, the first covering “broadcasting” and the second covering “production” of 16:9 programmes.

Annual report to the Council, the European Parliament and the Economic and Social Committee, of 13 July 1998, on progress in implementing the action plan for the introduction of advanced television services in Europe [COM(98) 441 final – Not published in the Official Journal].

This is the final Annual Report on the activities of this four-year Action Plan. It focuses on the activities carried out during 1996 and 1997 and on the results of implementation in the Member States. It also contains an assessment of the impact of the Action Plan on the market and on the sectors concerned.

Technical standards: tyre pressure gauges for motor vehicles

Leave a reply

Technical standards: tyre pressure gauges for motor vehicles

Outline of the Community (European Union) legislation about Technical standards: tyre pressure gauges for motor vehicles

Topics

These categories group together and put in context the legislative and non-legislative initiatives which deal with the same topic.

Internal market > Motor vehicles > Technical harmonisation for motor vehicles

Technical standards: tyre pressure gauges for motor vehicles (until December 2015)

Document or Iniciative

Council Directive 86/217/EEC of 26 May 1986 on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to tyre pressure gauges for motor vehicles.

Summary

This Directive applies to pressure gauges intended to measure the inflation pressure of motor vehicle tyres.

To obtain an EC mark, pressure gauges are subject to EC pattern-approval and verification. Requirements that they must satisfy include:

  • the metrological characteristics specified in paragraph 2 of the annex;
  • robust and careful construction to maintain their metrological characteristics;
  • guaranteed direct and accurate reading of pressure measured;
  • the dial must specify the symbol for the quantity measured and the symbol for the unit of measurement.

More detail can be found in the technical annex.

Member States may not refuse, prohibit or restrict the marketing and use of tyre pressure gauges for reasons connected with their metrological characteristics if they bear the EC pattern-approval and verification marks.

This Directive will be repealed by Directive 2011/17/EU on 1 December 2015.

References

Act Entry into force Deadline for transposition in the Member States Official Journal

Directive 86/217/EEC

30.05.1986

30.11.1987

OJ L 152, 6.6.1986

Technical harmonisation for motor vehicles

Leave a reply

Technical harmonisation for motor vehicles

Outline of the Community (European Union) legislation about Technical harmonisation for motor vehicles

Topics

These categories group together and put in context the legislative and non-legislative initiatives which deal with the same topic.

Internal market > Motor vehicles > Technical harmonisation for motor vehicles

Technical harmonisation for motor vehicles

Technical harmonisation for motor vehicles, implemented at Community level pursuant to Article 114 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU), is based on the Community’s WVTA (whole vehicle type-approval) system.
Under this system, manufacturers can obtain certification for a vehicle type in one Member State if it meets the harmonised technical requirements and then market it EU-wide with no need for further tests.
Total technical harmonisation has already been achieved in different vehicle categories (passenger cars, motorcycles, agricultural and forestry tractors, utility vehicles, coaches, moped and motorcycle trailers) and will soon be extended to other vehicle categories (other types of tractors and trailers).
It is essential that European car manufacturers be ensured access to as large a market as possible. While the Community type-approval system allows manufacturers to benefit fully from the opportunities offered by the internal market, worldwide technical harmonisation in the context of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UN/ECE) offers them a market which extends beyond European borders.

FRAMEWORK FOR THE TECHNICAL HARMONISATION OF MOTOR VEHICLES

  • A competitive automotive regulatory framework for the 21st Century
  • Global technical harmonisation of vehicles

TECHNICAL HARMONISATION IN THE INTERNAL MARKET

Motor Vehicles and Trailers

  • EC type-approval system for motor vehicles
  • General safety of motor vehicles
  • Emissions from heavy duty vehicles (Euro VI): certification rules
  • Windscreen defrosting and demisting systems for motor vehicles
  • Rear registration plates on motor vehicles
  • Motor vehicle towing devices
  • Windscreen wiper and washer systems of motor vehicles
  • Motor vehicle wheel guards
  • Manufacturer’s statutory plate and identification number for motor vehicles
  • Spray-suppression systems for motor vehicles
  • Installation of tyres
  • Tyre labelling
  • Engine power of motor vehicles and trailers (up until 2013)
  • Motor vehicles and their trailers: steering equipment (until 2014)
  • Braking devices of certain motor vehicles (until 2014)
  • Direction indicator lamps for motor vehicles with trailers (until 2014)
  • Parking lamps on motor vehicles (until 2014)
  • Front fog lamps on motor vehicles (until 2014)
  • Motor vehicles with trailers: rear fog lamps (until 2014)
  • Headlamps which function as main-beam and/or dipped-beam headlamps for motor vehicles (until 2014)
  • Motor vehicles with trailers: liquid fuel tanks and rear underrun protection devices
  • Motor vehicles with trailers: tyres (until 2017)
  • Technical standards: tyre pressure gauges for motor vehicles (until December 2015)
  • Motor vehicles with trailers: spray-suppression devices (until 2014)
  • Motor vehicles with trailers: heating systems for the passenger compartment (until 2014)
  • Motor vehicles with trailers: interior fittings (until 2014)
  • Motor vehicles with trailers: cabs of commercial vehicles (until 2014)
  • Motor vehicles with trailers: fire behaviour of the materials used in the internal fittings of buses and coaches (until 2014)
  • Motor vehicles with trailers: safety glass and glazing materials
  • Motor vehicles with trailers: mechanical coupling devices (until 2014)
  • Motor vehicles with trailers: masses and dimensions of cars (until 2014)
  • Road safety: dimensions and maximum weights authorised for both national and international journeys
  • The reusing, recycling and recovering of motor vehicles
  • Reduction of pollutant emissions from light vehicles
  • Emissions from diesel and gas engines (up until 2013)
  • Emissions from air conditioning systems in motor vehicles
  • Motor vehicles with trailers: permissible sound level

Two or three-wheeled motorised vehicles

  • Two or three-wheeled motor vehicles: EC type-approval system
  • Two or three-wheeled motor vehicles: components and characteristics
  • Two- or three-wheeled motor vehicles: maximum design speed
  • Lighting and light-signalling for two or three-wheel motor vehicles
  • Two- or three-wheeled motor vehicles: audible warning device
  • Controls, tell-tales and indicators for two or three-wheel motor vehicles
  • Rear registration plates of two or three-wheel motor vehicles
  • Two- or three-wheeled motor vehicles: braking devices
  • Two- or three-wheeled motor vehicles: maximum dimensions, masses and loads
  • Statutory markings for two- or three-wheel motor vehicles
  • Two- or three-wheeled motor vehicles: anti-theft devices
  • Stands for two-wheel vehicles

Agricultural and forestry tractors

  • Agricultural or forestry tractors: EC type-approval procedure
  • Parts and characteristics of wheeled agricultural or forestry tractors
  • Lighting and light-signalling on agricultural and forestry tractors and machines
  • Driver-perceived noise level of wheeled agricultural or forestry tractors
  • Roll-over protection structures of wheeled agricultural or forestry tractors
  • The coupling device and the reverse of wheeled agricultural or forestry tractors
  • Tractors and agricultural or forestry machinery: braking
  • Tractors and agricultural or forestry machinery: driver’s seat
  • Tractors and agricultural or forestry machinery: passenger seats
  • Tractors and agricultural or forestry machinery: front-mounted protection structures
  • Tractors and agricultural or forestry machinery: rear-mounted protective devices
  • Pollutant gases of wheeled agricultural or forestry tractors

Hydrogen-powered motor vehicles

  • Approval of hydrogen-powered motor vehicles

Tenth anniversary of the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership

Leave a reply

Tenth anniversary of the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership

Outline of the Community (European Union) legislation about Tenth anniversary of the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership

Topics

These categories group together and put in context the legislative and non-legislative initiatives which deal with the same topic.

External relations > Mediterranean partner countries

Tenth anniversary of the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership

Document or Iniciative

Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament of 12 April 2005 – Tenth Anniversary of the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership: A work programme to meet the challenges of the next five years [COM(2005) 139 final – Not published in the Official Journal].

Summary

The Commission has identified the critical areas for the future of the Mediterranean region and for intensified relations between the EU and the MNCs.

It focuses on three key objectives:

  • promoting human rights and democracy;
  • supporting job creation and sustainable economic development by liberalising trade and promoting regional integration;
  • contributing to better education for all.

With these proposals the Commission wishes to realise the full potential offered by the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership. A detailed analysis of achievements and shortcomings has shown that cooperation methods can be improved further.

A new model of cooperation may be drawn up via the institutional framework of the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP). This would mean that new cooperation projects form part of a five-year work programme and benefit from the Euro-Mediterranean Association Agreements and the Neighbourhood Action Plans.

Human rights and democracy

The political dialogue set up by the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership serves to develop common perceptions in the areas of democracy and respect for human rights. Greater emphasis will be placed on certain issues, such as gender equality, the promotion of fundamental and social rights and the role of civil society.

The Commission considers that new impetus must be given to the political dialogue to ensure stability and security in the Mediterranean region. It proposes to hold a conference on human rights and democratisation at sub-regional level. It also encourages the creation of a Democracy Facility under the European Neighbourhood and Partnership Instrument.

Job creation and economic growth

The Commission considers that these two objectives will be met through trade liberalisation and sub-regional integration. Increased trade between the partners will be facilitated in particular by:

  • enhanced liberalisation of trade in services and establishment, and of trade in agricultural and fishery products;
  • increased convergence of technical legislation and regulations, upgrading of infrastructure to European standards;
  • the development of South-South trade relations by the signing of Free Trade Agreements between the MNCs. This type of agreement must also enable the preferential rules of the Pan-Euro-Med cumulation of origin to be implemented;
  • the establishment of appropriate budgetary and monetary policies, and the continuation of structural reforms aimed at lifting obstacles to growth, investment and job creation;
  • the creation of a Euro-Mediterranean Bank, taking into account the success of the Facility for Euro-Mediterranean Investment and Partnership (FEMIP) implemented by the European Investment Bank (EIB);
  • the development of a regional transport network and the reform of the sector, and the adoption of recommendations for the creation of Euro-Mediterranean interconnections;
  • the gradual establishment of a Euro-Mediterranean energy market and the development of energy infrastructures in the partner third countries;
  • the adoption of environmental measures designed to depollute the Mediterranean Sea by 2020.

Education

The contribution of the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership to improving education and vocational training involves intensifying bilateral cooperation. The Commission intends to increase by at least 50% the proportion of financial aid devoted to education from 2007. In line with the Millennium Development Goals, this cooperation focuses on eradicating illiteracy, ensuring primary education for all and eliminating gender disparity at all levels of education.

Mobility in higher education will also be encouraged by extending existing programmes and by launching a new scheme of scholarships for university students co-financed by the MNCs.

Justice, freedom and security

The Commission recommends a series of actions aimed at enhancing cooperation, in particular in the area of migration and social integration of migrants. It recalls that local authorities and civil society play a key role in these areas.

Terrorism

The aim here is to pursue more practical and sustained cooperation in the fight against terrorism through a political dialogue at regional level. Bilateral state-to-state cooperation has proved insufficient and a new stage in the deepening of relations could be the adoption of a common Code of Conduct.

Weapons of mass destruction and ESDP

Attaining the objectives of the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership should lead to a Mediterranean region free of weapons of mass destruction and compliance by all the MNCs with their international obligations in this area. The Secretary General/High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) has taken the initiative of organising a workshop on this subject, aimed at developing Euro-Mediterranean cooperation within the framework of the European Security and Defence Policy (ESDP).

The Middle East Peace Process and the resolution of other conflicts

The appearance of conflicts is an obstacle to progress in the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership. This is why the EU supports cooperation and political dialogue among the parties. Even though the Barcelona Process is not a forum in which a settlement can be reached, it provides the instruments for maintaining peace.

The Commission proposes the signing of a Euro-Mediterranean charter for peace and stability and closer regional integration through the European Neighbourhood Policy. This strategy is suited to the conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Authority and may be reproduced to help resolve other conflicts, in particular the Western Sahara conflict that is a significant obstacle to the development of the integration process within the Arab Maghreb Union.

Civil society

The new Anna Lindh Foundation for Dialogue between Cultures should promote the participation of civil society in the Barcelona Process. Additional mechanisms should strengthen this participation, in particular through the organisation of a Euro-Mediterranean civil forum. The results of the forum will be made operational through the Neighbourhood Policy and its financing instrument.

The Commission supports the Arab International Women’s Forum in its efforts to set up a network of women who are leaders in their areas of business.

Background

In this Communication, the Commission draws up the preparatory framework for the meetings of the Foreign Affairs Ministers in 2005. Most notable was the Extraordinary Conference in Barcelona celebrating the tenth anniversary of a strong partnership between the EU and the MNCs, based on the basic principles of the Partnership, namely dialogue and cooperation.

The Luxembourg Conference (‘Barcelona VII’) aims to make concrete progress in the areas described above. To this end, the Commission attaches to its recommendations a timetable of measures to be taken in the short and medium term to achieve an integrated Euro-Mediterranean area by 2010.

Related Acts

BARCELONA SUMMIT CELEBRATING THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE EURO-MEDITERRANEAN PARTNERSHIP, 27-28 NOVEMBER 2005.

(pdf).
The Barcelona Summit saw the adoption of new objectives and a five-year work programme to improve the partnership’s impact on people’s lives and to make its results more visible.

Political and security partnership. The EU and its partners remain committed to making the Euro-Mediterranean region an area of peace, security and prosperity. This commitment concerns both the resolution of the Israeli/Palestinian conflict and other issues such as strengthening the partnership, developing joint regional projects, sustainable development and consolidating the rule of law, democracy and human rights. Citizens and civil society should be more involved, particularly in the decision-making process. The EU will support the reforms on the basis of the shared principles and values and the priorities under the ENP action plans. For their part, the partners will primarily have to undertake to meet international election standards, further the human rights dialogues envisaged under the association agreements and implement the code of conduct on countering terrorism. Dialogue concerning the ESDP and security issues should also be stepped up so as to consolidate the partners’ cooperation on conflict and natural disaster prevention, crisis management and civil protection.
Sustainable socio-economic development and reforms. The Euro-Mediterranean Partnership aims to improve employment and GDP levels and reduce poverty and wealth disparities. In order to achieve this, a business-friendly climate, particularly one which is favourable to small and medium-sized enterprises, must be created. The partners will establish a roadmap identifying the steps to be taken to create a Euro-Mediterranean free trade area by 2010. Trade in agricultural and fisheries products and trade in services should be progressively liberalised. It will also be necessary to speed up the signing of association agreements, promote regional agreements and bilateral free trade agreements and encourage the entry into force of the Agadir Agreement. Existing instruments such as the Pan-Euro-Mediterranean Protocol will also have to be promoted. Cooperation also concerns industrial products, health, the environment, transport, energy and tourism. It is planned to open up Community programmes such as the Eureka programme on research and innovation to all the partners and to apply the methodology used in the EU regional policy.
Education and socio-cultural exchanges. Because of its crucial role in political, economic and social development, education should be improved and strengthened, so as to contribute to achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Objectives will be identified for moving towards quality education which is open to all and tailored to labour market needs. Achieving these objectives should involve increasing funding for education through EU aid programmes and national programmes, including the European Neighbourhood and Partnership Instrument (ENPI), increasing the number of enrolments in an increased number of schools and extending programmes to fight illiteracy. Intercultural knowledge and understanding will benefit mainly from increased support for the work of the Anna Lindh Foundation, the involvement of civil society, measures to encourage mobility, etc.
Migration, social integration, justice and security. These issues will be handled using a comprehensive and integrated approach and increased cooperation. The means for achieving the objectives identified should essentially be meetings of Ministers and experts, frameworks encouraging exchanges of experience, dialogue with and assistance to countries of origin and transit and strengthened administrative and institutional capacities. Cooperation on illegal immigration should be stepped up by dealing with all the aspects involved (readmission agreements, the fight against people trafficking, capacity building). Cooperation between the legal/judicial professions on the one hand and the police and law enforcement authorities on the other should be strengthened by means of contacts, training and technical assistance on the basis of the existing instruments (Euromed Justice, Euromed Police, etc.).

(pdf).

(pdf).

OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS:

Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament on the preparation of the Tampere Euro-Mediterranean Foreign Affairs Ministers Conference (27-28 November 2006) – The Euro-Mediterranean Partnership: Time to deliver

Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament of 25 October 2006 on the preparation of the Tampere Euro-Mediterranean Foreign Affairs Ministers Conference (27-28 November 2006) – The Euro-Mediterranean Partnership: Time to deliver [COM(2006) 620 final – not published in the Official Journal].
With a view to the Tampere Conference, the Commission summarises the successes of the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership. It proposes key areas in which action is required as part of the implementation of the five-year work programme. These key areas are political and security dialogue, implementation of the code of conduct on countering terrorism, the establishment of a Euro-Med area for free trade and investment, energy and transport, the environment, education and social development, strengthening the role of women in society, information society, cultural dialogue and migration.
The Commission also proposes reviewing the working methods, so as to improve communication on the Euro-Mediterranean partnership and the preparation of Euro-Med meetings and conferences by involving participants and giving them more responsibility.

Telematics: deployment of road telematics

Leave a reply

Telematics: deployment of road telematics

Outline of the Community (European Union) legislation about Telematics: deployment of road telematics

Topics

These categories group together and put in context the legislative and non-legislative initiatives which deal with the same topic.

Transport > Intelligent transport and navigation by satellite

Telematics: deployment of road telematics

Document or Iniciative

Communication from the Commission, of 20 May 1997, concerning a community strategy and a framework for the deployment of road telematics in Europe together with initial proposals for action [COM (97) 223 final – Not published in the Official Journal].

Summary

Road telematics (RT), which is part of a rapidly growing information society, is to expand as part of a Common Transport Policy.

The Communication lists the advantages of RT, which:

  • makes driving safer; 
  • gives logistical support to transport-service providers; 
  • enables traffic to be managed efficiently; 
  • offers policy makers an alternative to building new roads by making infrastructure use more efficient; 
  • has a positive impact on the environment; 
  • helps to provide new niches for industry and the providers of “added-value” services. 

The Commission’s RT aims are as follows:

  • providing a background for the development of RT services and systems to meet both local and community needs; 
  • being open to all technologies; 
  • encouraging the authorities to incorporate RT into projects at the transport-infrastructure planning stage; 
  • taking advantage of the trans-European network projects and of the corresponding financial support; 
  • encouraging involvement by the private sector; 
  • providing stable conditions for the small and medium-sized businesses using RT services; 
  • guaranteeing that interworking between infrastructures and services possible in order to provide users with the best possible service. 

The Communication sets out the division of RT responsibilities among the European Union, the Member States, the regions and local authorities, European standardisation bodies, providers of commercial services, the motor industry, equipment manufacturers, systems designers and suppliers.

The Commission is drawing up a list of the areas needing priority action.

The aim pursued by the European Union as regards driver information, which is based on the RDS-TMC (Radio Data System / Traffic Message Channel), is to guarantee cross-frontier interworking and make it easier to create a European market for such products and services. Both technical harmonisation and political coordination are needed for that purpose. The Commission will give particular support to the provision of a common framework (“memoranda of understanding”) whereby the parties concerned will undertake to provide the service and apply the standards on the TERN.

The aim concerning electronic–payment systems is likewise to achieve an adequate level of interworking. This requires not only the development of a convergence strategy for all electronic payment systems but also a solution to the problems concerning the classification of vehicles, non-equipped users, and the legal and institutional aspects. Technical harmonisation will have to take account of the multi-lane environment and the introduction of other telematic services using the same technology, such as reservation and payment systems. The work should be completed by at the latest the year 2000.

Close cooperation between countries and regions will be necessary with regard to the exchange of transport data and information management. The Commission will make it easier for the parties concerned (highway authorities, service providers) to provide a common vector for applying data exchange standards on the TERN.

The man/machine interface is characterised by two main types of device that alter the driver’s task: the display of the information needed to help drivers to take decisions while driving and vehicle-control devices such as self-contained intelligent speed regulators and collision-prevention systems. The Commission advocates the application of codes of good practice to the interface between human beings and the information equipment.

The architecture of the intelligent transport systems must enable various concepts and technologies to be used and to incorporate factors such as public transport and integral payment.

These priority activities could be funded, as required, by part of the trans-European network budget or the use of specific programmes such as that on the exchange of data between administrations.

In addition to the priority applications listed above, other activities have been covered by proposals with a view to their subsequent implementation. These are:

  • the supply of information and vehicle guidance before and during the journey; 
  • improvements to the management, monitoring and regulation of both urban and interurban traffic; 
  • the large-scale application of high-performance telematics to electronic payment and reservations; 
  • the development of public transport applications, more particularly for ticketing services, vehicle positioning systems, operational support systems covering bus timetabling or maintenance, real-time customer information services (public terminals, electronic guides); 
  • the introduction on the market of advanced safety and vehicle control systems such as stand-alone speed regulators or the automation of intermittent traffic; 
  • improving the safety and efficiency of commercial vehicles by monitoring and locating goods consignments electronically and making greater use of electronic recording systems, such as electronic tachometers, smart driving licences and continuous customs clearance. 

Related Acts

Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament on telematics applications for transport in Europe [COM (94) 469 final – Not published in the Official Journal].

Resolution on the Commission communication on a Community strategy and framework for the deployment of road transport telematics in Europe and proposals for initial actions [COM(97) 0223 final – Official Journal C328 of 26.10.1998].

Council Resolution of 17 June 1997 on the development of telematics in road transport, in particular with respect to electronic fee collection [Official Journal C 194 of 25.06.1997].

Technology transfer agreements

Leave a reply

Technology transfer agreements

Outline of the Community (European Union) legislation about Technology transfer agreements

Topics

These categories group together and put in context the legislative and non-legislative initiatives which deal with the same topic.

Internal market > Businesses in the internal market > Intellectual property

Technology transfer agreements

Document or Iniciative

Commission Regulation (EC) No 772/2004 of 7 April 2004 on the application of Article 81(3) of the Treaty to categories of technology transfer agreements.

Summary

Intellectual property legislation confers exclusive rights on holders of patents *, copyright, design rights, registered trademarks and other rights protected by the law. A holder of intellectual property rights is authorised to prevent any unauthorised use of its intellectual property * and to exploit such property, in particular by licensing it to third parties. Technology transfer agreements * concern the licensing of technology.

Such agreements will usually improve economic efficiency and be pro-competitive as they can reduce duplication of research and development, strengthen the incentive for the initial research and development, spur incremental innovation, facilitate diffusion and generate product market competition. However, licensing agreements may also be used for anti-competitive purposes, e.g. where two competitors use a licensing agreement to share out markets between themselves or where an important licence holder excludes competing technologies from the market.

In order to strike the right balance between the protection of competition and the protection of intellectual property rights, this block exemption regulation creates an area of certainty for most licensing agreements. The guidelines specify how Article 101 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) (ex-Article 81 of the Treaty establishing the European Community (TEC)) should be applied to agreements not falling within the area of certainty.

Scope

The scope of the new rules not only covers patent and know-how * licensing agreements but also applies to design and model rights and software copyright licences. In cases where the Commission does not have the right to adopt a block exemption regulation, e.g. for agreements on patent pooling or the granting of copyright licences in general, the guidelines provide clear guidance on the future policy regarding the application of the rules. This regulation does not, however, concern licensing agreements relating to the subcontracting of R&D activities.

Implementing conditions

In order to determine the area of certainty applicable to licensing agreements, this regulation distinguishes between competing and non-competing undertakings, regarding the former as undertakings which compete on the relevant technology market and/or the relevant product market.

The regulation stipulates, however, that the following are exempt from the restrictions laid down in Article 101(1) TFEU (ex-Article 81(1) TEC):

  • agreements concluded between competing undertakings where the market share does not exceed 20 % of the relevant market;
  • agreements concluded between non-competing undertakings where the market share does not exceed 30 % of the relevant market.

These exemptions are granted on condition that the agreements do not contain certain restrictions that have serious anti-competitive effects. In this respect, the regulation lists a whole set of hardcore and excluded restrictions (Articles 4 and 5) that have serious anti-competitive effects and are, therefore, prohibited. In other words, anything not expressly excluded from the block exemption regulation is exempt. In the absence of hardcore restrictions, undertakings that sign agreements not exceeding the market share thresholds may consider their agreements to be compatible with European competition legislation.

Market share is calculated on the basis of market sales value data relating to the preceding calendar year. If the market share is initially not more than 20 % or 30 % but subsequently rises above that level, the exemption continues to apply for a period of two consecutive calendar years following the year in which the 20 % or 30 % threshold was first exceeded.

Withdrawal of the exemption

Regulation (EC) No 1/2003 empowers the competent authorities of European Union (EU) countries to withdraw the benefit of the block exemption in respect of technology transfer agreements having effects incompatible with Article 101(3) TFEU (ex-Article 81(3) TEC) in their respectively territory or in a part of that territory and where such territory has the characteristics of a distinct geographic market. EU countries must ensure uniform application throughout the common market of the EU competition rules.

The Commission may also withdraw the benefit of this regulation where:

  • it finds in any particular case that a technology transfer agreement has effects which are incompatible with Article 101(3) TFEU;
  • it notes the existence of parallel networks covering more than 50 % of a relevant market. In this case, the Commission may declare by regulation that this regulation is not applicable.

Agreements already in force on 30 April 2004 which satisfy the conditions for exemption provided for in Regulation (EC) No 240/96 are not prohibited during the period from 1 May 2004 to 31 March 2006.

Background

Regulation (EC) No 772/2004 falls within the framework of Regulation No 19/65/EEC empowering the Commission in accordance with Article 101(3) TFEU to exempt certain types of agreement. It replaces Regulation (EC) No 240/96 of 31 January 1996, which expired on 30 April 2004.

Key terms used in the act
  • Technology transfer agreement: a patent licensing agreement, a know-how licensing agreement, a software copyright licensing agreement or a mixed patent, know-how or software copyright licensing agreement, including any such agreement containing provisions which relate to the sale and purchase of products or which relate to the licensing of other intellectual property rights or the assignment of intellectual property rights, provided that those provisions do not constitute the primary object of the agreement and are directly related to the production of the copyright products; assignments of patents, know-how, software copyright or a combination thereof where part of the risk associated with the exploitation of the technology remains with the assignor are also deemed to be technology transfer agreements.
  • Intellectual property rights: industrial property rights, know-how, copyright and neighbouring rights.
  • Patents: patents, patent applications, utility models, applications for registration of utility models, designs, topographies of semi-conductor products, supplementary protection certificates for medicinal products or other products for which such supplementary protection certificates may be obtained and plant breeder’s certificates.
  • Know-how: a package of non-patented practical information, resulting from experience and testing, which is secret (that is to say, not generally know or easily accessible), substantial (that is to say, significant and useful for the production of the contract products) and identified (that is to say, described in a sufficiently comprehensive manner so as to make it possible to verify that it fulfils the criteria of secrecy and substantiality).
Act Entry into force – Date of expiry Deadline for transposition in the Member States Official Journal

Regulation (EC) No 772/2004

1.5.2004 – 30.4.2014

–

OJ L 123 of 27.4.2004

Related Acts

Commission Notice – Guidelines on the application of Article 81 of the EC Treaty to technology transfer agreements [Official Journal C 101 of 27.4.2004].
The purpose of these guidelines is to provide guidance on the application of the block exemption regulation and on the application of Article 101 TFEU (ex-Article 81 TEC) to technology transfer agreements that fall outside the scope of the regulation. For example, in the case of agreements pooling patents or the granting of copyright licences in general, the guidelines provide clear guidance on the future policy on applying the rules. The block exemption regulation and the guidelines are not prejudicial to possible parallel application of Article 102 TFEU (ex-Article 82 TEC) to licensing agreements. The criteria set out in the guidelines must be applied in the light of the circumstances of the individual case, thereby ruling out any mechanical application. The Commission will monitor how the regulation and the guidelines are being applied under the new implementation arrangements introduced by Regulation (EC) No 1/2003 in order to determine whether any amendments should be made.

Textile products: textile fibre names and labelling

Leave a reply

Textile products: textile fibre names and labelling

Outline of the Community (European Union) legislation about Textile products: textile fibre names and labelling

Topics

These categories group together and put in context the legislative and non-legislative initiatives which deal with the same topic.

Enterprise > Industry

Textile products: textile fibre names and labelling

Document or Iniciative

Regulation (EU) No 1007/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 September 2011 on textile fibre names and related labelling and marking of the fibre composition of textile products and repealing Council Directive 73/44/EEC and Directives 96/73/EC and 2008/121/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (Text with EEA relevance).

Summary

This Regulation lays down provisions relating to:

  • textile fibre names * with regard to their definition and use when indicating the fibre composition of textile products;
  • the labelling of textile products * containing non-textile parts of animal origin;
  • methods of analysis to check information indicated on labels or markings.

Products concerned by the Regulation

The Regulation concerns textile products, namely:

  • products containing at least 80 % by weight of textile fibres;
  • products treated in the same way as textile products.

The Regulation does not concern textile products contracted out to persons working in their own homes or to independent firms without property being transferred, or to textile products made up by self-employed tailors.

Textile fibre names

The description of fibre composition of textile products must use the textile fibres listed in Annex I to the Regulation. The Regulation states which names shall correspond to which type of fibre. The use of these names for other fibres is prohibited.

Manufacturers may ask the European Commission to include a new textile fibre name in Annex I to the Regulation. A technical file must be submitted with their application, drawn up pursuant to Annex II and containing the following information:

  • the proposed name, definition and identification for the new textile fibre;
  • sufficiently developed identification and quantification methods;
  • additional information concerning possible allergic reactions, the production process and consumer relevance.

Indication of the composition of textile products

The use of the terms “100 %”, “pure” or “all” is limited to products composed of a single textile fibre.

The terms “virgin wool” or “fleece wool” (and the terms listed in Annex III) may be used on labels provided the product is composed exclusively of a wool fibre which has not previously been incorporated in a finished product, and which has not been subjected to any spinning. If wool is contained in a mixture of textile fibres, the term “virgin wool” may appear on labelling if:

  • all the wool is composed of a single wool fibre;
  • such wool accounts for no less than 25 % of the total weight of the mixture;
  • the wool is mixed with only one other fibre in the case of a scribbled mixture.

Textile products composed of several fibres must be labelled with the name and percentage by weight of all constituent fibres, in descending order. The term “other fibres” may be used if some minor fibres could not be stated at the time of manufacture of the product, or for fibres not listed in Annex I. The terms “mixed fibres” or “unspecified textile composition” may be used on a textile product the composition of which is hard to state at the time of manufacture.

The presence of non-textile parts of animal origin in textile products must be indicated by the phrase “Contains non-textile parts of animal origin” on the labelling.

Labelling and marking of textile products

When placed on the market, textile products shall be labelled and marked in a durable, legible, visible and accessible way, to indicate their fibre composition. For products not intended for the final consumer, such labelling or marking may be replaced with accompanying commercial documents. They shall then be provided by the product manufacturer.

For textile products consisting of two or more textile components not having the same textile fibre composition, the fibrous composition for each component must be indicated.

Labelling must not include abbreviations. Labels must also be offered in one or more of the official languages of the Member State within which the product has been placed on the market.

Economic operators placing textile products on the market are responsible for their labelling or marking.

Descriptions of textile fibre composition must also appear in catalogues, trade literature, and packaging. Such information must be visible for online purchases.

Labelling is not mandatory for the products listed in Annex V.

Market surveillance

Checks on the conformity of the fibre composition of textile products shall be carried out by market surveillance authorities, according to the methods described in Annex VIII.

As from 8 May 2012, this Regulation repeals Directives 73/44/EEC, 96/73/EC and 2008/121/EC.

Key terms of the Act
  • Textile fibre: a unit of matter characterised by its flexibility, fineness and high ratio of length to maximum transverse dimension, which render it suitable for textile applications, or a flexible strip or tube, of which the apparent width does not exceed 5 mm, including strips cut from wider strips or films, produced from the substances used for the manufacture of the fibres listed in Table 2 of Annex I.
  • Textile product: any raw, semi-worked, worked, semi-manufactured, manufactured, semi-made-up or made-up product which is exclusively composed of textile fibres, regardless of the mixing or assembly process employed.

Reference

Act Entry into force Deadline for transposition in the Member States Official Journal

Regulation (EU) No 1007/2011

7.11.2011

–

OJ L 272, 18.10.2011

Textiles after 2005

Leave a reply

Textiles after 2005

Outline of the Community (European Union) legislation about Textiles after 2005

Topics

These categories group together and put in context the legislative and non-legislative initiatives which deal with the same topic.

Enterprise > Industry

Textiles after 2005

Document or Iniciative

Communication from the Commission to the Council, the European Parliament, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions, of 13 October 2004 – Textiles and clothing after 2005 – Recommendations of the High Level Group for textiles and clothing [COM(2004) 668 – Not published in the Official Journal].

Summary

The WTO Agreement on Textiles and Clothing and all of its restrictions on imports of textiles and clothing were repealed on 1 January 2005. In preparation, the Commission set up a High Level Group for textiles and clothing at the beginning of 2004. The Group comprised representatives of the Commission and the European Parliament, some Member States, industrialists, retailers and importers, European trade associations, trade unions and representatives of local textile and clothing associations, and its mandate was to put forward recommendations in order to improve the sector’s competitiveness and facilitate its adjustment to future challenges.

The economic situation in the textile sector has been difficult. Production and employment fell significantly between 2000 and 2003. The European Union (EU) had less success in its major export markets, and the US dollar/Euro exchange rate made the prices of its products less competitive. Finally, the development of the Euro-Med Area and the prospect of quota elimination led to relocation of production.

The High Level Group presented its first recommendationson 30 June 2004. In this Communication, the Commission examined these recommendations, which cover five areas.

Research and innovation

In the area of research and development, the Commission approved several initiatives proposed by the High Level Group, such as the creation of a European Technology Platform for Textiles and Clothing. It also called on the sector to take part in Community programmes in this area, for example the 7th Framework Programme for Research and Development or the Competitiveness and Innovation Framework Programme. The textile sector can also improve its supply chain management by means of initiatives to develop information society technologies.

Education, training and employment

The Commission highlighted the importance of social dialogue as a means of achieving reforms in this area. It agreed with the High Level Group’s analysis of a need for a Europe-wide lifelong learning strategy for the sector and to ensure a better match between supply and demand for training. It also drew attention to European programmes offering the possibility of funding in this area, such as the Leonardo da Vinci programme and certain provisions of the European Social Fund.

Other competitiveness-related issues

The Commission evaluated several issues related to competitiveness, including:

  • : the textile industry is a highly intensive user of chemicals. For this reason the Commission decided to examine the impact of the chemicals policy on the sector;
  • Intellectual Property Rights (IPR): the Commission’s objectives are to enforce IPR in third countries, raise right-holders’ awareness of counterfeiting and tackle counterfeiting and piracy, and it has made provision for the creation of a website on IPR and the organisation of seminars and networking meetings;
  • access to finance: small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) encounter many problems in obtaining credit. Several Community financial instruments have therefore been set up, such as the Financial Services Action Plan, to provide support for SME financing.

Regional aspects

The Commission does not recommend a sectoral approach in the area of regional policy. However, it is necessary to anticipate developments in the sector and put in place appropriate programmes to mitigate the socio-economic impact on those regions where the sector is dominant. Member States must set aside an amount of 1 % of the Structural Funds ‘ annual contribution for the “Convergence” objective and 3 % of the “Regional competitiveness and employment” objective contribution to cover unforeseen local or sectoral crises linked to economic and social restructuring, or to the consequences of trade liberalisation.

Trade policy issues

With regard to trade policy, the Commission examined four issues which are essential to the competitiveness of European textile companies:

  • creation of the Euro-Mediterranean Area: the completion of the Euro-Mediterranean Free Trade Area is crucial for the textile sector, as it will enable the sector to maintain the whole chain of production close to the European market and, therefore, attain advantages involving costs, quality and proximity. The Commission is therefore focusing on the conclusion of free trade agreements between the countries concerned;
  • access to markets: the Commission is working towards opening up the market while at the same time promoting a level playing field, for example within the Doha Agenda negotiations. It is also continuing to call on members of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) to cut their customs duties to the lowest possible level and to eliminate non-tariff barriers;
  • Chinese imports: the Commission suggested monitoring Chinese imports through customs declarations. It has already taken the initiative of establishing a sustained dialogue with the relevant Chinese authorities;
  • trade defence instruments: the Commission drew up guidelines, for example for the application of safeguard clauses, and undertook to facilitate the use of existing trade defence instruments.

The Commission pointed out, in conclusion, that in addition to all of these measures initiatives would have to be taken at national and regional levels. Moreover, in order to observe the impact of quota elimination, the Commission recommended that the High Level Group continue its work.

Subsequent developments

The High Level Group continued to meet after quotas had been abolished. It expressed its support for the Shanghai Agreement of 10 June 2005. This agreement provided for a three-year adjustment period during which the rate of increase in imports of textiles from China was restricted in certain categories. Following a crisis during which Chinese textiles were blocked in European ports after their import quotas had been exceeded, the EU and China reached an agreement on 5 September 2005 to clear blocked Chinese textile imports.

On 18 September 2006 the High Level Group adopted a follow-up report entitled “European textiles and clothing in a quota-free environment “. It noted that the wave of very low-priced imports from Asia had not reached the level feared and felt that the EU would maintain its technological lead until 2020 at least. Nevertheless, the sector requires radical restructuring. The High Level Group recommended that companies cooperate more, set up large-scale groups of companies and focus their efforts on innovation and development.

Although the activities of the High Level Group for textiles and clothing formally came to an end in September 2006, the Group’s members highlighted the importance of continuing to monitor the sector’s development and of assessing in 2007 the progress made in implementing the recommendations.

Terrorist offences

Leave a reply

Terrorist offences

Outline of the Community (European Union) legislation about Terrorist offences

Topics

These categories group together and put in context the legislative and non-legislative initiatives which deal with the same topic.

Justice freedom and security > Fight against terrorism

Terrorist offences

Document or Iniciative

Council Framework Decision 2002/475/JHA of 13 June 2002 on combating terrorism [See amending act(s)].

Summary

The framework decision harmonises the definition of terrorist offences in all EU countries by introducing a specific and common definition. Its concept of terrorism is a combination of two elements:

  • an objective element, as it refers to a list of instances of serious criminal conduct (murder, bodily injuries, hostage taking, extortion, fabrication of weapons, committing attacks, threatening to commit any of the above, etc.);
  • a subjective element, as these acts are deemed to be terrorist offences when committed with the aim of seriously intimidating a population, unduly compelling a government or international organisation to perform or abstain from performing any act, or seriously destabilising or destroying the fundamental political, constitutional, economic or social structures of a country or an international organisation.

The framework decision defines a terrorist group as a structured organisation consisting of more than two persons, established over a period of time and acting in concert, and refers to directing a terrorist group and participating in its activities as offences relating to a terrorist group.

Furthermore, EU countries must ensure that certain intentional acts are punishable as offences linked to terrorist activities even if no terrorist offence is committed. These include:

  • public provocation to commit a terrorist offence;
  • recruitment and training for terrorism;
  • aggravated theft, extortion and falsification of administrative documents with the aim of committing a terrorist offence.

To punish terrorist offences, EU countries must make provision in their national legislation for effective, proportionate and dissuasive criminal penalties, which may entail extradition. In addition, EU countries must ensure that penalties are imposed on legal persons where it is shown that the natural person has the power to represent the legal person or authority to exercise control within the legal person that has committed a terrorist offence.

EU countries must take the necessary action to:

  • establish their jurisdiction with regard to terrorist offences;
  • establish their jurisdiction where they refuse to hand over or extradite a person suspected or convicted of such an offence to another EU country or to a non-EU country;
  • coordinate their activities and determine which of them is to prosecute the offenders with the aim of centralising proceedings in a single EU country, when several EU countries are involved.

They will also ensure appropriate assistance for victims and their families (in addition to the measures already provided for in Framework Decision 2001/220/JHA).

Background

The terrorist attacks of September 2001 have led the EU to step up action in this field. This framework decision is thus designed to make the fight against terrorism at EU level more effective. This problem was already discussed at the European Council meetings in Tampere in October 1999 and in Santa Maria da Feira in June 2000.

References

Act Entry into force Deadline for transposition in the Member States Official Journal
Framework Decision 2002/475/JHA

22.6.2002

31.12.2002

OJ L 164 of 22.6.2006
Amending act(s) Entry into force Deadline for transposition in the Member States Official Journal
Framework Decision 2008/919/JHA

9.12.2008

9.12.2010

OJ L 330 of 9.12.2008

Related Acts

Report from the Commission of 6 November 2007 based on Article 11 of the Council Framework Decision of 13 June 2002 on combating terrorism [COM(2007) 681 final – Official Journal C 9 of 15.1.2008].
This second report notes that most EU countries evaluated for the first time have satisfactorily achieved implementation of the main provisions contained in the framework decision. Nevertheless, some major issues stand out. Concerning the EU countries evaluated for the second time, the additional information they have sent has allowed the Commission to generally conclude that there is a higher level of compliance. However, most of the main deficiencies identified in the first evaluation report remain unchanged.
The main concerns of the Commission are the deficient implementation, by some EU countries, of the provisions that establish a common definition of terrorism and the harmonisation of penalties for offences related to a terrorist group and of criminal liability of legal persons for terrorist offences.

Report from the Commission of 8 June 2004 based on Article 11 of the Council Framework Decision of 13 June 2002 on combating terrorism [COM(2004) 409 final – Official Journal C 321 of 28.12.2004].
This report reviews the measures taken by EU countries to comply with the framework decision on combating terrorism. According to it, most EU countries have taken the necessary measures to comply with the main provisions of this legal instrument. However, certain deficiencies were pointed out.