Instruments for increasing investment in SMEs
18.7.2012
Question for written answer E-007228/2012
to the Commission
Rule 117
Robert Rochefort (ALDE)
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) form the backbone of the European economy. According to the Commission, between 2002 and 2010 SMEs accounted for 85 % of net job creation in the EU. However, SMEs have difficulty accessing the financing they need in the various stages of their development. In order to tackle the current economic crisis and relaunch growth, it is therefore essential to stimulate investment in SMEs.
- —To that end, does the Commission not agree that the volume of investment in SMEs must be increased?
Mobilising the savings of European citizens for that purpose could be a vital instrument. As the Commissioner responsible for the internal market and services has pointed out[1], this is an area in which we have been less successful than our partners, despite the fact that we have genuine assets: the savings surplus in several Member States.
- —Would the Commission agree that it would be appropriate to establish a European savings account for individuals, with a guaranteed rate of interest, to be used to finance loans for SMEs?
- —Could it specify what initiatives it intends to take in this direction, if any?
- [1] Speech by Michel Barnier on 16 May 2012 at the awarding of the Charlemagne Prize.
OJ C 220 E, 01/08/2013