Information Society: globalisation and strengthening of the international cooperation

The Committee expressed strong support for the Commission's efforts to create an international initiative for Internet and e-commerce. In adopting its report drafted by Mr Franco MALERBA (EPP, I) the Committee approved of the idea of establishing an "Internet Charter" - a legally non-binding document setting out internationally agreed objectives and principles in areas such as taxation, liability, jurisdiction and data-protection. From the European point of view, the Committee considers that the main purposes of this Charter should be to ensure that European companies and organisations can fully participate in the opportunities offered by Internet and electronic commerce, to avoid premature and conflicting regulation and to ensure that the interests of consumers are safeguarded. In drawing up this Charter, the Committee stressed that it is necessary to work closely with other countries - notably the USA - and with Industry. Finally, the Committee calls on the Commission to include Parliament in this process. �