(2004/C 84 E/1000)

WRITTEN QUESTION P-0895/04

by Jan Andersson (PSE) to the Commission

(19 March 2004)

Subject:   Dispute concerning port dues in Helsingborg

The Helsingborg port company and SweFerry AB have been in dispute over port dues since 1997. The issue was referred to the Commission in the same year. In 2002, I asked the Commission when it would state its position. Now, in the spring of 2004, the Commission has still not stated its position. When does it intend to do so?

Answer given by Mr Monti on behalf of the Commission

(15 April 2004)

The Honourable Member refers to complaints by two ferry-operators alleging an abuse of a dominant position by the Port of Helsingborg concerning excessive and discriminatory pricing. Since the previous written question E-3064/01 (1) by the Honourable Member on this matter, the Commission has progressed noticeably in its examination of these very complex cases.

In February 2003, the Commission informed the complainants in writing of its preliminary position, in respect of which the complainants have submitted their comments. The Port of Helsingborg has also presented its views on the Commission's preliminary position and on the comments of the complainants. In addition, the Commission has requested and obtained further data from the parties as well as from third parties. On the basis of all this information, the Commission is now preparing the final decision which is expected to be adopted before the end of 2004.

(1)  OJ C 147 E, 20.6.2002.