EU set for final Reach chemicals reaction

MEPs will on Tuesday assess the state of play in negotiations over controversial Reach chemicals legislation.

The European parliament is due to hold a second reading vote on the legislation in three weeks and talks continue over amendments to the final text.

Some member states – led by Germany – are angry that MEPs on parliament’s environment committee voted to reinstate clauses that would block the registration of some chemicals if there was a suitable alternative available.

Governments fear the move will put EU companies at a competitive disadvantage compared to their counterparts in the US and elsewhere.

Member states want to allow companies to use toxic chemicals if they can prove that they can be safely handled.

Although talks are stalled, MEPs are expected to insist that a deal can be reached by the time of the parliament vote – thus avoiding more lengthy and potentially divisive negotiations with member states.
 

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