Text tabled : A7-0326/2011

  Harlem Désir (S&D), in writing. – (FR) In the resolution on public procurement, the European Parliament has strengthened the Commission’s proposal towards a social Europe: the most significant step forward is that authorities should no longer opt for the lowest bid, but for the most economically advantageous tender – one which includes, for example, environmental aspects. Likewise, the issue of subcontractors is taken into account in order to prevent abuse in relation to working conditions and workers’ safety. Nevertheless, there is still progress to be made where European public procurement policy is concerned.

In particular, the Commission must impose the principle of reciprocity on its trading partners: if the Union agrees to open up its public procurement markets to third-country operators, then European companies should also have access to markets and public works in these countries outside the EU. European companies and employment in Europe must be a priority when business opportunities are looked at. The Commission must ensure that its forthcoming Public Procurement Directive serves the dual purpose of providing more quality jobs and offering quality services to users.