MEPs at the Industry Committee approved draft EU rules that will enable companies or persons to get access to data such as maps, statistics, weather data, infrastructure listings, data from publicly funded research projects, and digitised books from libraries, which they can then use to develop their businesses. According to MEPs, EU firms could save billions of euros thanks to these draft EU rules that would enable them to re-use public data instead of producing them from scratch

The Industry Committee at the European Parliament approved draft EU rules that would enable EU firms to re-use public data instead of producing them from scratch. According to the proposal, these rules would apply to public information such as maps, statistics and weather data. MEPs also amended the proposal to ensure that companies can access data for free, or for a minimal charge, other than in a few clearly-defined cases. Member states' representatives endorsed EU Open Data rules in April 2013.

In addition, MEPs ensured that if an authority denies access to public information or imposes abusive charges, it will be possible to appeal against its decision quickly and cheaply or at no cost. They also set clear limits on the scope and duration of contracts whereby the authorities assign companies exclusive rights to digitise and manage public data.

The EU Commission estimates that the overall economic gains from savings and creating new goods and services could amount to €40 billion a year in the EU. The adoption by the EP Committee follows an informal deal reached with member states. A final plenary vote is scheduled for 10-13 June.