Reach: Employers' body calls for more workable legislation

12 January 2005 16:00  [Source: ICIS news]

LONDON (CNI)--European business and employers' federation, UNICE, is calling for more workable European Union (EU) chemicals legislation ahead of a public meeting next week organised by the European Parliament (EP) to discuss Europe’s controversial Reach chemicals policy.

 

“Industry continues to support the political objectives of the proposed EU chemicals legislation, in particular the protection of human health and the environment,” UNICE said. However, it added: “European rules need to be simplified to meet workability and competitiveness needs, in line with sustainable development objectives.” 

 

This is even more important, UNICE said, “at a time when so many businesses in Europe have seen their products and services challenged by competitors enjoying better framework conditions for business.” The organisation’s comments come prior to a public meeting organised by the EP to air current views on the EU’s proposed Reach (registration, evaluation and authorisation of chemicals) legislation.

 

Industry continues to work with the European Commission (EC) to seek to improve Reach policy recommendations. It also pressing for a powerful new chemicals agency charged with overseeing the chemicals regulations.

 

UNICE and industry representatives will outline the current business position on Reach at a meeting in Brussels on 17 January. Alain Perroy, director general of the European Chemical Industry Council (Cefic) is among industry leaders scheduled to address the meeting.

 

European Parliament members will question industry leaders, scientific experts, politicians and NGOs (non governmental organisations) at a public Reach hearing organised by the Parliament on 19 January.

 

By: Nigel Davis
+44 20 8652 3214

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