Postal services: further opening to competition

The common position adopted by the Council retains the essence of the amended proposal of the Commission. It sets a clear path towards the accomplishment of the the internal market for postal services, through a gradual and controlled liberalisation of these services, combined with the continued provision of a high quality of universal service. The proposed opening is similar to the one proposed by the Commission although it involves a longer time schedule. The provisions of the common position regarding a decisive step towards the full accomplishment of the internal market for postal services, ensure both the right of initiative of the Commission, and the full co-decision powers of the European Parliament and Council. The Commission therefore agrees with the changes introduced by the Council and considers that they will contribute to improving the quality and the content of the legislative text. Furthermore, the common position takes full account of the amendments adopted by the Parliament in its first reading and accepted by the Commission.�