Analysis: The European Transparency Initiative Green Paper - Assessing the Evidence 

Background

On 3 May 2006 the Commission published its Green Paper “European Transparency Initiative” to strengthen ethics rules for EU policymakers and the estimated 15,000 lobbyists, NGOs and other pressure groups who seek to influence them in Brussels. 
The Green Paper began a public consultation that closed on 31 August 2006 and the Commission is now expected to come forward with legislative proposals. 

Summary and excerpts

In his paper, Tom Spencer comments on the wide range of contributions submitted to the on-line consultation. He concludes the following: 

“To any disinterested observer it should by now be apparent that the Commission is faced with the stark choice of “double or quits”. It can press on with its mini-mandate to encourage a self-regulatory system under the shadow of mandatory imposition. This will satisfy no one, but will continue to damage the reputation of public affairs. Alternatively it can recognise that its aims can only be achieved on a basis of all institutions, all countries and all public affairs practitioners. If it takes this high road it will need to start by establishing a consensus with Council and Parliament on how to reshape the system.” 

Read the full article .