By Martin Banks - 5th November 2007
A new European commission move aimed at helping Europe’s car industry adapt to change has been broadly welcomed.
Proposals unveiled on Monday are designed to monitor developments in the industry and allow partners to exchange know-how on managing restructuring in a ‘socially-responsible’ way.
It also proposes better use of EU funding, such as the European social fund, to support anticipation and adaptation to change.
The initiative, which brings together the commission and key players in industry, were outlined at a news conference by EU employment commissioner Vladimir Spidla.
He said, “Twelve million European families depend on the automotive sector for their livelihoods. While the sector faces though challenges such as increased competition and restructuring, there are also big opportunities.
“This partnership commits companies, trade unions, governments and regions to act together to better prepare for change and manage it in a proactive way.
“The car industry is an important source of prosperity, employment and innovation. We need to ensure competitiveness and employment in the sector while sustaining further progress in safety and environmental performance.”
The partnership, which follows a a high-level forum on restructuring in Brussels last month, was generally greeted by car industry representatives at today's conference.
Tony Murphy, general secretary of the European Metalworkers’ Federation, described it as a “positive” initiative which will enable the industry to be better prepared for future changes.
“It is a major step in the right direction and I hope it is the start of future, trustful collaboration,” he said.
His comments were echoed by Lars Holmqvist, CEO of the European Association of Automotive Suppliers, who said, “Yes, we need to protect the environment but we also need to remain competitive.
"I hope these proposals will help us do just that.”
However, ALDE deputy Chris Davies sounded a note of caution.
He warned that the goal of securing the sector’s survival must not be achieved at the expense of environmental concerns.
The British MEP, who is responsible for steering proposals on reducing vehicle emissions through parliament, said, “I welcome this initiative but experience suggests that the car industry is happy to talk but is slow to act.
"When it comes to the industry and environmental issues, the truth is that we have not seen many significant changes in the environment sector in the past."
Davies supports target-based legislation because of the car industry’s perceived failure to meet reductions targets they voluntarily agreed to ten years ago.
“I generally welcome the partnership launched today but, at the end of the day, it is delivery that matters and significant environmental improvements have to be made in the industry.
“The danger is that we will end up with a cosy arrangement which allows for plenty of discussion and much goodwill but is not backed up with fine deeds,” he said.
The automotive industry provides work for more than two million Europeans and supports 10 million jobs indirectly. It accounts for about three per cent of the EU’s gross domestic product.
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