European Union News - 20 February 2009

The European Parliament has adopted the report of the Commission to allow Member States to reduce VAT rates on a new series of goods and services, such as restaurants, children’s prams, audio books and beauty treatments.

The European Parliament has adopted a report that claims that the Commission recognizes as legally binding the target of getting a saving objective of 20% by 2020. Also, this report proposes to follow the national action plans of Member States, to introduce energy efficiency standards in public procurement procedures and to support the compulsory use of smart energy meters.

The Official Journal of the European Union published on February 20th 2009 a prior notification for concentration between the undertakings Lagardère, Sumitomo and HFG. Interested third parties must submit their opinions on the announced operation by March 2nd 2009.