Increase in the number of counterfeit banknotes in the eurozone
12.1.2010
WRITTEN QUESTION E-0107/10
by Georgios Papanikolaou (PPE)
to the Commission
In a recent announcement, the European Central Bank noted a significant increase in the number of counterfeit euro banknotes in the eurozone during the second half of 2009 compared to the first half of the year.
In particular, the ECT noted that this was an increase of 8 % and remarked that 98 % of counterfeit notes found on the market were printed in the eurozone.
In view of the above, will the Commission say:
- 1.How does it view the measures it has taken so far to combat the counterfeiting of euro coins and banknotes and the circulation these counterfeit euros and what does it intend to do to address this phenomenon more effectively?
- 2.Does it have any data concerning the number of counterfeit banknotes which have been printed or identified on the Greek market or withdrawn from circulation there and the rank occupied by Greece as far as the circulation and counterfeiting of banknotes is concerned compared to other eurozone countries?
OJ C 138 E, 07/05/2011