With a few exceptions, the single market is functioning satisfactorily and the free movement of goods, services and capital is now a reality. This was the main conclusion emerging from the inaugural meeting of the Advisory Committee for Coordination within the Internal Market Field, which was held in Brussels on 2 February. The meeting, which was opened by Commissioner Vanni d'Archirafi, marked the beginning of a new era of cooperation between Member States and the Commission. While all the national representatives confirmed that everything had been done in their countries to ensure that the internal market functioned properly, they agreed with the Commission on the need to set up a permanent structure to smooth its operation. It was with this in mind and on the basis of the broadest possible consensus that the proposal was adopted to set up a network of contact points to identify problems and see that they are dealt with by the authorities responsible. It was also agreed that the Advisory Committee should hold regular meetings. Meetings will be held over the next two months to discuss problems encountered in the following areas: - technical harmonization directives for industrial products; - foodstuffs; - pharmaceuticals; - public procurement; - dangerous chemicals; - recognition of diplomas. Mr Vanni d'Archirafi emphasized that much still had to be done, particularly as regards the free movement of individuals. He stressed the need for closer cooperation between Member States and the Commission and announced that the Commission would shortly be tabling concrete proposals for an overall strategy to ensure that the single market functions as efficiently as possible at all times. He urged the Council to conclude the discussions in progress at the earliest opportunity and Member States to speed up the transposition and actual implementation of directives. In this area, the Commission would remain watchful and would use the powers conferred on it by the Treaty to keep up the pressure on Member States. * * *
