Local view for "http://purl.org/linkedpolitics/eu/plenary/2006-03-15-Speech-3-279"
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"en.20060315.23.3-279"2
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"Mr President, ladies and gentlemen, the unification of markets is a fundamental aim of the Union, but it is also more than that: the market is one of the pillars on which the whole process of European integration was – and is – based.
A true market requires, firstly, that capital should be able to circulate freely and be invested where it earns the best return; secondly, it requires companies to have a cross-border dimension and the ability to set up wherever the interests of their competitiveness dictate, through the medium of mergers and acquisitions, which may even be hostile. The market does not tolerate the abuse of a dominant position that prevents free competition. An open market and one that operates smoothly is crucial for European competitiveness in international markets.
Protectionism causes the opposite effect, as we have seen in recent months; states blocking cross-border takeovers, mergers or acquisitions to protect strategic national interests. Protectionism really serves to defend weak and inefficient companies, or to create national champions artificially. The damage caused is significant for clients unable to obtain goods and services at the best prices, and is a serious matter for a society forced to bear the costs of uncompetitive companies. Moreover, protectionism is inherently incapable of guaranteeing workers safe and sustainable employment prospects. Protectionism means putting Europe into reverse.
To operate properly, the market must be efficient and avoid distortions. Everyone must play by the rules: we cannot accept unfair competition from those States and companies that, on the one hand, protect themselves, and, on the other, exploit the virtuous openness displayed by others.
This is why we are asking the European Commission to take firm action to ensure freedom of movement for capital and unfettered competition. We are therefore pleased to hear the comments of Mrs Kroes here in Parliament. To have the courage to take that decision means really being a serious European: competitiveness, growth and the well being of citizens, based on an integrated market, are vital to prepare the ground for the birth of the European Constitution."@en1
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