Impact of new technologies on the press in Europe

Adopting the own initiative report by Mrs Katerina DASKALAKI (UPE, EL) on the impact of new technologies upon the press in Europe, the European Parliament called for measures designed to guarantee the role, individuality and permanent nature of the press in the face of the impact of new technologies. In particular, it urged the European Commission to present a communication on the problems created for the press as regards competition and the maintaining of pluralism. It also called for: - the creation of a legal and institutional framework to protect the social and professional rights of journalists; - consideration to be given to the downward harmonization of VAT on newspapers and periodicals (possibly even zero rating); - the introduction of common rules on reducing postal, telecommunications and freight charges; - thought to be given within the profession to the case for self-regulation with a view to avoiding sensationalism in the press and intrusive coverage of individuals' private lives.�