91997E2710

WRITTEN QUESTION E-2710/97 by Ben Fayot (PSE) and Viviane Reding (PPE) to the Commission (1 September 1997)

Subject: Cross-border information centres

An audit report assessing the work of the cross-border information centres, including those dealing with consumer information, has been submitted to the Commission.

Will the Commission respond to the call made by Parliament in its resolution of 20 February 1997 on priorities for consumer policy 1996-1998 (A4-0317/96) ((OJ C 85, 17.3.1997, p. 133. )) and draw up a communication setting out its policy as regards expansion of the cross-border information centres, in particular those which demonstrate their professionalism and meet the genuine need for information, advice, and out-of-court settlements concerning international transactions? Furthermore, does the Commission intend to establish the current pilot project on a more permanent footing?

Answer given by Mrs Bonino on behalf of the Commission (14 October 1997)

The Commission wishes to point out to the honourable Members of Parliament that Resolution A-4-0317/96 does not invite it to prepare a communication on its policy with regard to the cross-border consumer information centres.

However, the Commission wishes to recall that on 24 July 1997 it transmitted to Parliament a study carried out by an independent consultant to evaluate the centres' pilot projects.

The Commission intends to prepare a proposal on a legal basis for the subsidies which will also cover the Euro infocentres. This proposal will be presented before the end of the year.