On 2nd December 2003, the European Commission
presented a consultation document for the creation of a Single Payment
Area.
On 2nd December 2003, the European Commission presented a consultation
document containing suggestions for the creation of a new legal framework
for a single payment area. Forwarded to the European Parliament (where
this issue is scheduled to be addressed on 20th January 2004), this
document reflects discussions with Member States, central banks, the
payment sector and consumer associations. Cartes Bancaires and the
FBF-Federation of French Bank were active participants in these discussions.
The Commission is asking stakeholders to submit their observations
by 31 January 2004. The creation of a single payment area - which
still does not exist despite the introduction of the euro - will in
particular reduce the costs associated with payments and improve security.
The Commission's complete document can be consulted at: http://europa.eu.int/comm/internal_market/payments/
framework/communication_en.htm