The Commission has tabled a first set of proposals to cut unnecessary administrative burdens for companies, primarily SMEs.    The package consists of one directive and one regulation, changing two existing legal acts respectively.  This set of proposals aims to to make life easier for transport companies, small bakers, butchers and grocery shops as well as SMEs involved in mergers or divisions. It is part of the Commission's 24 January Action Programme aimed at reducing administrative burdens in the EU by 25% by 2012.

Full details on the proposals and the initial action programme may be accessed at http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/regulation/better_regulation/index_en.htm