Margrethe Vestager eudebates COVID-19, its impact on the Single Market, bailouts and citizens

In our virtual ‘In Conversation With’ event on 27 March, Vestager outlined the Commission’s response to the current COVID-19 health crisis. The recently implemented Temporary Framework for state aid allows for common practices across Europe and prevents a fragmented response by the Member States. The Commission also actively works against ‘virus profiteering’ through small cartels as well as big tech companies. With regard to the use of data to tackle this health emergency, the Commissioner recalled the commitment to use “data for good” while adhering to strict standards that stay true to the privacy commitments of Europe’s General Data Protection Regulation.

The College of Commissioners is working hard on reversing the implementation of disruptive barriers to the Single Market through the introduction of green lines at border crossings, the establishment of European-wide public procurements for medical supplies and the close cooperation with the private sector. Any short-term emergency responses need to be able to outlive the crisis as “we need to preserve the Single Market and make sure that it will be ready for a green and digital future in a post-COVID-19 reality.” Vestager made clear that the European Commission is “part of our democracy and not above it” and is therefore committed to ensuring that no policy that aims to tackle the current health emergency violates the essential building blocks of our societies – namely trust, transparency and accountability.

European consumer confidence dips in second wave of virus

Informal meeting of competitiveness ministers (internal market, industry), 23 October 2020

Official Council meetings are organised by the Council of the EU and chaired by the Council presidency. However, each Council presidency also organises informal meetings of ministers to discuss initiatives related to a particular topic or Council configuration.

Informal video conference of ministers responsible for competitiveness to address issues related to industrial, competition and internal market policy. The ministers will discuss how industrial and competition policy can establish the right policy environment for industrial innovation and for a level playing field for all companies in Europe.