Food law, European Food Authority, and food safety

The Commission broadly welcomes the Council's common position remarking that it is line with the general thrust of the aims and principles of the new Regulation. There are nevertheless certain changes to the substance of the text which the Commission rejects. Firstly, the composition of the Management Board. The Commission considers that further consideration needs to be given to the relationship between the different criteria for the Board's constitution including size, balance and nomination process. Secondly, the location of the Food Authority. The Commission considers it necessary to establish a seat as soon as possible. Thirdly, the Commission expresses reservation over the dates of application. The Commission believes a delay of three years is too long and would prefer to see the application of provisions within a two year time-frame. The Commission however signals that the second reading in Parliament may now proceed and hopes that the process will be completed as soon as possible to allow for the establishment of the Food Authority by 2002 as requested by the Council meeting in Nice.�