Use of online platforms to book overnight accommodation

15.12.2016

Question for written answer P-009491-16
to the Commission
Rule 130
Anneleen Van Bossuyt (ECR)

Online platforms such as Airbnb are becoming an increasingly established part of the scene in the European Union. I have observed that, if these platforms engage in competition with the regular market, for example with hotels, they come in for a great deal of criticism. In a number of European cities, the practice of providing overnight accommodation via platforms such as Airbnb is being restricted.

1. Does the Commission have any figures on the numbers of overnight stays that were booked via such platforms as Airbnb in the European Union in 2015?

2. Is the Commission aware of any national legislation in the Member States which reconciles the interests of the sharing economy with the interests of more traditional business models, for example Airbnb and traditional hotels?