Text tabled : A7-0033/2011

  Maria do Céu Patrão Neves (PPE), in writing. – (PT) This report relates to the review of the directive on general product safety and market surveillance. In a context of free movement and a constant increase in the variety of products available on the market, it is essential that we do not lose sight of consumer safety. It is a duty of both governments and companies to ensure greater product safety. Legislation at a European level has already been successful, strengthening the general safety of products within the internal market. However, improvements can still be made, as there are gaps in this area that compromise consumer safety and which could have harmful consequences. I voted in favour of this report as I had to agree with the rapporteur’s proposals, which consisted of emphasising the importance of reviewing current European legislation on product safety so that dangerous products can be identified and withdrawn from the market, for the benefit of the end consumer. I would point, in particular, to amendments to safety rules for products aimed at the most vulnerable consumers within the single market, namely children, the elderly and people with disabilities.