EU parliament shrinks chemicals safeguards

Analysis of the first reading vote by the European Parliament in Strasbourg on 17 November 2005 in favour of a new package of chemicals legislation known as REACH (Registration, Evaluation and Authorisation of Chemicals). Industry lobbying to reduce the burden of the proposed new rules has largely succeeded despite the efforts of environmental groups.

Friends of the Earth Europe (et al.): Press Release, 17.11.05: Parliament votes to phase out hazardous chemicals but allows huge knowledge gaps on safety http://www.foeeurope.org/press/2005/joint_17_Nov_reach.htm

CEFIC (European Chemical Industry Council): Press Release, 17.11.05: EU Parliament vote. Chemical Industry: important step in REACH process http://www.cefic.be/Files/NewsReleases/PR_Outcome_REACHvote.pdf

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