Dangerous criticism of protectionism

France's President Nicolas Sarkozy wants to secure French jobs with billions of euros in state loans to the nation's automotive industry. Now he faces European critics who accuse him of protectionism. The daily Delo is critical of such accusations: "If there weren't protectionism in the Union - not only in times of crisis when European governments are naturally tempted to protect local manufacturers - then European Commissioner for Competition Neelie Kroes and her staff would not have so much work, and would not be able to impose fines amounting to millions - billions even - of euros on those who violate the rules of competition. It is useful and necessary to warn of irregularities and departures from these sacred rules, as long as the warnings do not turn into mutual recriminations. But just that could be the case at the European Union's upcoming anti-protectionism summit on March 1."

» more information (external link, Slovenian)
More from the press review on the subject » Corporations, » Economic Policy, » France, » Europe
All available articles from » Bozo Masanovic

» To the complete press review of Friday, February 13, 2009