91998E2436

WRITTEN QUESTION E-2436/98

by Nikitas Kaklamanis (UPE) to the Commission

(30 July 1998)

Subject: EU support for European press publications

Through DG X the Commission finances a host of actions, many of which cannot be described as particularly objective; one example is the "information campaign" for the euro which is in fact more like a "propaganda campaign", since the disadvantages of the Single Currency are passed over in complete silence, while its advantages are idealized. While millions of ecus are allocated to support dubious actions (which very obviously damages the prestige of the Commission and its image with the European public), there does not appear to be any specific strategy to support European press publications (newspapers and periodicals).

Will the Commission say whether it intends to adopt a specific initiative to provide financial support for newspapers and periodicals within the framework of the EU, which would help European press publications meet increased costs and contribute (effectively and transparently in this case) to ensuring that the European public receives objective information?

Answer given by Mr Oreja on behalf of the Commission

(1 October 1998)

As a democratic institution mindful of transparency, the Commission is bound to explain to citizens the significance and meaning of its action. It is for that reason, and not for propaganda purposes, that it informs the public of its proposals and of the main achievements of the Union. It does this in conjunction with Parliament and its departments. The Commission consults the national authorities and the circles concerned on its action; the priority information action on the euro is a case in point.

In view of the subsidiarity principle, the Commission feels that the matter of press production costs, however worrying it may be, should first of all be treated at the level of the Member States. Thus it is not the Commission's intention to grant financial assistance to daily newspapers or other periodicals.