A diluted services directive will still be crucial

Commentary feature in which author concludes: 'The services directive is important for the European economy but not only that. It symbolises the changing nature of the EU and in particular, the European Commission. Perhaps it will set down the marker for a future directive that is even stronger, once apprehensive countries see the benefits. But for now, it is what is on the table and it embodies opportunities being created in the "new Europe".'

The writer is senior partner of Clifford Chance and a member of the advisory council of Business for New Europe. BNE is an independent coalition of UK business leaders articulating a positive case for reform in Europe. It launched in March 2006 to support the UK’s active engagement in Europe, and a reformed, enlarged and free-market EU.

Business for New Europe http://www.bnegroup.org/

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