Standardization in the European economy
The comment period for the Green Paper on the development of standardization ended on 28 April 1991. A Commission communication (COM(91) 521, of 16.12.1991) published in the Official Journal, summarizes the response received and makes recommendations for the development of standardization in the 1990s. It also proposes greater use of European standardization in Community policy. The Commission received overwhelming support for the objective set out in the Green Paper (COM(90) 456, published in OJ No C 120, of 28.1.1991) i.e. the establishment of a more efficient and market-responsive machinery for European standardization, which is recognized as a fundamental instrument for achieving the full economic benefit of the single market. On priority issues (efficiency and flexibility in the standardization process, wider representation of economic interests, and greater openness to international standardization) there is a wide measure of agreement on the need for change and also on the methods proposed. On other points, such as new organizational structures and a distinct status for European standards, there are reservations as to whether such radical change is necessary or useful. However, there is willingness on the part of the standards organizations to go some way in responding to the Commission's underlying concerns. A summary of comments received (concerning the role of industry, the standards organizations, and the role of government) is set out in the text. A more detailed review, sent to those who commented on the Green Paper is, available on request.