### as part of multilateral surveillance in accordance with article 121 of the treaty , the council shall monitor the implementation of convergence programmes , on the basis of information provided by member states with a derogation and of assessments by the commission and the economic and financial committee , in particular with a view to identifying actual or expected significant divergences of the budgetary position from the medium - term budgetary objective , or from the appropriate adjustment path towards it , ensuing from deviations from prudent fiscal - policy making . ### as part of multilateral surveillance in accordance with article 121 tfeu , the council shall monitor the implementation of convergence programmes , on the basis of information provided by member states with a derogation and of assessments by the commission and the economic and financial committee , the employment committee and the social protection committee , in particular with a view to identifying actual or expected significant divergences of the budgetary position from the medium - term budgetary objective , or from the appropriate adjustment path towards it , ensuing from deviations from efficient and sustainable fiscal - policy making .


### based on assessments by the commission and the economic and financial committee , the council shall , within the framework of multilateral surveillance under article 121 of the treaty , examine the medium - term budgetary objectives presented by the member states concerned , assess whether the economic assumptions on which the programme is based are plausible , whether the adjustment path towards the medium - term budgetary objective is appropriate and whether the measures being taken and / or proposed to respect that adjustment path are sufficient to achieve the medium - term budgetary objective over the cycle and to achieve sustained convergence . ### based on assessments by the commission , the economic and financial committee , the employment committee and the social protection committee , the council shall , within the framework of multilateral surveillance under article 121 tfeu and of the examination of the implementation of the employment policies in accordance with article 148 tfeu , examine the medium - term budgetary objectives and the expected path of the general debt ratio as presented by the member states concerned in their convergence programmes , assess whether the economic assumptions on which the programme is based are plausible , whether the adjustment path towards the medium - term budgetary objective is appropriate and whether the measures being taken and / or proposed to respect that adjustment path are sufficient to achieve the medium - term budgetary objective over the cycle and to achieve sustained convergence .


### the council shall carry out the examination of the stability programme within at most three months of the submission of the programme . the council , on a recommendation from the commission and after consulting the economic and financial committee , shall , if necessary , deliver an opinion on the programme . where the council , in accordance with article 121 of the treaty , considers that the objectives and the content of the programme should be strengthened with particular reference to prudent fiscal policy - making , the council shall , in its opinion , invite the member state concerned to adjust its programme . ' ### the council shall carry out the examination of the stability programme within at most three months of the submission of the programme . the council , on a recommendation from the commission and after consulting the economic and financial committee , the employment committee and the social protection committee , shall , if necessary , deliver an opinion on the programme . where the council , in accordance with articles 9 and 121 tfeu , considers that the objectives and the content of the programme should be strengthened with particular reference to efficient and sustainable fiscal policy - making , the council shall , in its opinion , invite the member state concerned to adjust its programme .


### based on assessments by the commission and the economic and financial committee , the council shall , within the framework of multilateral surveillance under article 121 of the treaty , examine the medium - term budgetary objectives presented by the member states concerned , assess whether the economic assumptions on which the programme is based are plausible , whether the adjustment path towards the medium - term budgetary objective is appropriate and whether the measures being taken or proposed to respect that adjustment path are sufficient to achieve the medium - term budgetary objective over the cycle . ### based on assessments by the commission , the economic and financial committee the employment committee and the social protection committee , the council shall , within the framework of multilateral surveillance under article 121 tfeu and of the examination of the implementation of the employment policies in accordance with article 148 tfeu , examine the medium - term budgetary objectives and the expected path of the general debt ratio as presented by the member states concerned in their stability programmes , assess whether the economic assumptions on which the programme is based are plausible , whether the adjustment path towards the medium - term budgetary objective is appropriate and whether the measures being taken or proposed to respect that adjustment path are sufficient to achieve the medium - term budgetary objective over the cycle .


### in periods of severe economic downturn of a general nature member states may be allowed to temporarily depart from the adjustment path implied by prudent fiscal - policy making referred to in the fourth subparagraph . ### only in periods of a severe economic downturn or a severe rise in unemployment , including its aftermath and the period in which the economy is still operating below potential member states shall be allowed to temporarily depart from the adjustment path implied by efficient and sustainable fiscal - policy making referred to in the fourth subparagraph in order to facilitate economic recovery .


### when defining the adjustment path to the medium - term budgetary objective for member states that have not yet reached this objective and in allowing a temporary deviation from this objective for member states that have already reached it , under the condition that an appropriate safety margin with respect to the deficit reference value is preserved and that the budgetary position is expected to return to the medium - term budgetary objective within the programme period , the council shall take into account the implementation of major structural reforms which have direct long - term cost - saving effects , including by raising potential growth , and therefore a verifiable impact on the long - term sustainability of public finances . ### when defining the adjustment path to the medium - term budgetary objective for member states that have not yet reached this objective and in allowing a temporary deviation from this objective for member states that have already reached it , under the condition that an appropriate safety margin with respect to the deficit reference value is preserved and that the budgetary position is expected to return to the medium - term budgetary objective within the programme period , the council shall take into account the implementation of structural reforms which are targeted at ensuring a more effective use of public funds resulting in the reduction of unnecessary expenses and which are conducive to the achievement of the union’s growth and jobs objectives , and social and regional cohesion .


### a deviation from prudent fiscal policy making shall be considered significant if the following conditions occur : an excess over the expenditure growth consistent with prudent fiscal policy - making , not offset by discretionary revenue - increasing measures ; or discretionary revenue - decreasing measures not offset by reductions in expenditure ; and the deviation has a total impact on the government balance of at least 0 . 5% of gdp in one single year or of at least 0 . 25% of gdp on average per year in two consecutive years . ### a deviation from efficient and sustainable fiscal policy making shall be considered significant if the following conditions occur : an excess over the expenditure growth consistent with efficient and sustainable fiscal policy - making , not offset by discretionary revenue - increasing measures ; or discretionary revenue - decreasing measures not offset by reductions in expenditure ; and the deviation has a total impact on the government balance of at least 0 , 5% of gdp in one single year or of at least 0 , 25% of gdp on average per year in two consecutive years .


### for member states that have not yet reached their medium - term budgetary objective , annual expenditure growth does not exceed a rate below a prudent medium - term rate of gdp growth , unless the excess is matched by discretionary revenue measures . the size of the shortfall of the growth rate of government expenditure compared to a prudent medium - term rate of gdp growth is set in such a way as to ensure an appropriate adjustment towards the medium - term budgetary objective ; ### for member states that have not yet reached their medium - term budgetary objective , annual growth in tax revenue should exceed the medium term rate of growth of gdp , whereas annual medium term expenditure growth should not exceed a rate below a prudent medium - term rate of gdp growth . the impact of unemployment benefits and other social expenditure related to the business cycle is not to be taken into account when in the calculation and assessment of the growth path of government expenditure . deviations from these indicative expenditure and growth paths shall not be seen as a problem in case these deviations are matched by discretionary measures , either on the expenditure side or the revenue side or both . the size of the shortfall of the growth rate of government expenditure compared to a prudent medium - term rate of gdp growth , and the size of the excess of growth rate of tax revenue compared to medium term gdp growth are both set in such a way as to ensure an appropriate adjustment towards the medium - term budgetary objective ;


### for member states that have not yet reached their medium - term budgetary objective , annual expenditure growth does not exceed a rate below a prudent medium - term rate of gdp growth , unless the excess is matched by discretionary revenue measures . the size of the shortfall of the growth rate of government expenditure compared to a prudent medium - term rate of gdp growth is set in such a way as to ensure an appropriate adjustment towards the medium - term budgetary objective ; ### for member states that have not yet reached their medium - term budgetary objective , annual expenditure growth does not exceed efficient and sustainable medium - term rate of gdp growth , unless the excess is matched by discretionary revenue measures . the size of the difference of the growth rate of government expenditure compared to an efficient and sustainable medium - term rate of gdp growth is set in such a way as to ensure an appropriate adjustment towards the medium - term budgetary objective ;


### the deviation shall not be considered if the member state concerned has significantly overachieved the medium - term budgetary objective , taking into account the presence of excessive macroeconomic imbalances , and the budgetary plans laid out in the stability programme do not jeopardise this objective over the programme period . ### the deviation shall not be considered if the member state concerned has achieved the medium - term budgetary objective , taking into account the presence of excessive macroeconomic and social imbalances , and the budgetary plans laid out in the stability programme do not jeopardise this objective over the programme period .


### the content of the stability and convergence programmes as well as the criteria for their examination should further be adapted in the light of the experience gained with the implementation of the stability and growth pact . ### the content of the stability and convergence programmes as well as the procedure and criteria for their examination should further be developed and discussed both at national and at the union level in the light of the experience gained with the implementation of the stability and growth pact , in particular regarding its contribution to growth and job creation and to the union ' s competitiveness and convergence .


### adherence to the medium - term budgetary objective of budgetary positions should allow member states to have a safety margin with respect to the 3% of gdp reference value in order to ensure rapid progress towards sustainability and to have room for budgetary manoeuvre , in particular taking into account the needs of public investment . ### adherence to the medium - term budgetary objective of budgetary positions should allow member states to deal with normal cyclical fluctuations while keeping the government deficit below the 3 % gdp reference value and ensure rapid progress towards fiscal sustainability . taking this into account , the medium - term budgetary objective should allow room for budgetary manoeuvre , in particular for public investment conducive to the achievement of the union’s growth and jobs objectives .


### the council , when assessing the adjustment path toward the medium - term budgetary objective , shall examine if the member state concerned pursues an appropriate annual improvement of its cyclically - adjusted budget balance , net of one - off and other temporary measures , required to meet its medium - term budgetary objective , with 0 . 5% of gdp as a benchmark . for member states with a high level of debt or excessive macroeconomic imbalances or both , the council shall examine whether the annual improvement of the cyclically - adjusted budget balance , net of one - off and other temporary measures is higher than 0 . 5% of gdp . the council shall take into account whether a higher adjustment effort is made in economic good times , whereas the effort may be more limited in economic bad times . ### the council and the commission , when assessing the adjustment path toward the medium - term budgetary objective , shall examine if the member state concerned pursues an appropriate annual improvement of its cyclically - adjusted budget balance , net of one - off and other temporary measures , required to meet its medium - term budgetary objective , with 0 , 5% of gdp as a benchmark . for member states with a high level of debt or excessive macroeconomic imbalances or both , the council and the commission shall examine whether the annual improvement of the cyclically - adjusted budget balance , net of one - off and other temporary measures is higher than 0 , 5% of gdp . the council and the commission shall take into account whether a higher adjustment effort is made in economic good times , whereas the effort may be more limited in economic bad times .


### in the event that the significant deviation from prudent fiscal - policy making persists or is particularly serious , the council , on a recommendation from the commission , shall address a recommendation to the member state concerned to take the necessary adjustment measures . the council , on a proposal from the commission , shall make the recommendation public . ### in the event that the significant deviation from efficient and sustainable fiscal - policy making persists or is particularly serious , the council , on a recommendation from the commission , shall address a recommendation to the member state concerned to take the necessary adjustment measures . the council , on a proposal from the commission , shall make the recommendation public .


### fiscal policy - making shall be considered prudent and thereby conducive to the achievement of the medium - term budgetary objective and its maintenance over time if the following conditions are satisfied : ### fiscal policy - making shall be considered efficient and sustainable and thereby conducive to the achievement of the medium - term budgetary objective and its maintenance over time if the following conditions are satisfied :


### the council shall carry out the examination of the convergence programme within at most three months of the submission of the programme . the council , on a recommendation from the commission and after consulting the economic and financial committee , shall , if necessary , deliver an opinion on the programme . where the council , in accordance with article 121 of the treaty , considers that the objectives and the content of the programme should be strengthened with particular reference to prudent fiscal - policy making , the council shall , in its opinion , invite the member state concerned to adjust its programme . ' ### the council shall carry out the examination of the convergence programme within at most three months of the submission of the programme . the council , on a recommendation from the commission and after consulting the economic and financial committee , the employment committee and the social protection committee , shall , if necessary , deliver an opinion on the programme . where the council , in accordance with articles 9 and 121 tfeu , considers that the objectives and the content of the programme should be strengthened with particular reference to efficient and sustainable fiscal - policy making , the council shall , in its opinion , invite the member state concerned to adjust its programme .


### the deviation shall not be considered if the member state concerned has significantly overachieved the medium - term budgetary objective , taking into account the presence of excessive macroeconomic imbalances , and the budgetary plans laid out in the stability programme do not jeopardise this objective over the programme period . ### the deviation shall not be considered if the member state concerned has achieved the medium - term budgetary objective , taking into account the presence of excessive macroeconomic or social imbalances , and the budgetary plans laid out in the stability programme do not jeopardise this objective over the programme period .


### each participating member state shall submit to the council and commission information necessary for the purpose of multilateral surveillance at regular intervals under article 121 of the treaty in the form of a stability programme , which provides an essential basis for price stability and for strong sustainable growth conducive to employment creation . ### each participating member state shall submit to the council and commission information necessary for the purpose of multilateral surveillance at regular intervals under article 121 of the treaty in the form of a stability programme , which provides an essential basis for price stability , competitiveness and convergence and for strong sustainable growth conducive to employment creation .


### the prudent medium - term of growth should be assessed on the basis of projections over a ten - year horizon updated at regular intervals . ### the efficient and sustainable medium - term of growth should be assessed on the basis of projections over a ten - year horizon updated at regular intervals .


### the council shall furthermore examine whether the contents of the stability programme facilitate the achievement of sustained convergence within the euro area , closer coordination of economic policies and whether the economic policies of the member state concerned are consistent with the broad guidelines of economic policies of the member states and of the union . ### the council shall furthermore examine whether the contents of the stability programme facilitate the achievement of sustained convergence within the euro area , closer coordination of economic policies and whether the economic policies of the member state concerned are consistent with article 9 tfeu , in particular with regard to the promotion of a high level of employment , the guarantee of adequate social protection and the fight against social exclusion , the union’s growth and jobs objectives , the broad guidelines of economic policies of the member states and of the union and the guidelines for the employment policies of the member states .


### in periods of severe economic downturn of a general nature member states may be allowed to temporarily depart from the adjustment path implied by prudent fiscal - policy making referred to in the fourth subparagraph . ### only in periods of a severe economic downturn or a severe rise in unemployment , including its aftermath and the period in which the economy is still operating below potential member states shall be allowed to temporarily depart from the adjustment path implied by efficient and sustainable fiscal - policy making referred to in the fourth subparagraph .


### for member states that have achieved the medium - term budgetary objective , annual expenditure growth does not exceed a prudent medium - term rate of gdp growth , unless the excess is matched by discretionary revenue measures ; ### for member states that have achieved the medium - term budgetary objective , annual expenditure growth does not exceed the estimate of efficient and sustainable medium - term rate of gdp growth , whereas growth in tax revenue does not stay behind the growth in government revenue unless the excesses or gaps are matched by discretionary measures in revenue and / or expenditure ;


### a deviation from prudent fiscal policy making shall be considered significant if the following conditions occur : an excess over the expenditure growth consistent with prudent fiscal policy - making , not offset by discretionary revenue - increasing measures ; or discretionary revenue - decreasing measures not offset by reductions in expenditure ; and the deviation has a total impact on the government balance of at least 0 . 5 % of gdp in one single year or of at least 0 . 25 % of gdp on average per year in two consecutive years . ### a deviation from efficient and sustainable fiscal policy making shall be considered significant if the following conditions occur : an excess over the expenditure growth consistent with efficient and sustainable fiscal policy - making , not offset by discretionary revenue - increasing measures ; or discretionary revenue - decreasing measures not offset by reductions in expenditure ; and the deviation has a total impact on the government balance of at least 0 , 5 % of gdp in one single year or of at least 0 , 25 % of gdp on average per year in two consecutive years .


### for member states that have not yet reached their medium - term budgetary objective , annual expenditure growth does not exceed a rate below a prudent medium - term rate of gdp growth , unless the excess is matched by discretionary revenue measures . the size of the shortfall of the growth rate of government expenditure compared to a prudent medium - term rate of gdp growth is set in such a way as to ensure an appropriate adjustment towards the medium - term budgetary objective ; ### for member states that have not yet reached their medium - term budgetary objective , annual expenditure growth does not exceed the efficient and sustainable medium - term rate of gdp growth , unless the excess is matched by discretionary revenue measures . the size of the difference of the growth rate of government expenditure compared to a efficient and sustainable medium - term rate of gdp growth is set in such a way as to ensure an appropriate adjustment towards the medium - term budgetary objective ;


### the council shall furthermore examine whether the contents of the convergence programme facilitate the closer coordination of economic policies and whether the economic policies of the member state concerned are consistent with the broad guidelines of economic policies of the member states and of the union . in addition , for erm2 member states , the council shall examine whether the content of the convergence programme ensure a smooth participation in the exchange rate mechanism . ### the council shall furthermore examine whether the contents of the convergence programme facilitate the closer coordination of economic policies and whether the economic policies of the member state concerned are consistent with article 9 tfeu , in particular with regard to the promotion of a high level of employment , the guarantee of adequate social protection and the fight against social exclusion , the union’s growth and jobs objectives , the broad guidelines of economic policies of the member states and of the union and the guidelines for the employment policies of the member states . in addition , for erm2 member states , the council shall examine whether the content of the convergence programme ensure a smooth participation in the exchange rate mechanism .


### adherence to the medium - term budgetary objective of budgetary positions should allow member states to have a safety margin with respect to the 3% of gdp reference value in order to ensure rapid progress towards sustainability and to have room for budgetary manoeuvre , in particular taking into account the needs of public investment . ### adherence to the medium - term budgetary objective of budgetary positions should allow member states to have a safety margin with respect to the 3% of gdp reference value in order to ensure sustainable public finances and a rapid progress towards sustainability , while leaving room for budgetary manoeuvre , in particular taking into account the needs of public investment conducive to the achievement of the union’s growth and jobs objectives and to improving competitiveness and convergence of its member states .


### in periods of severe economic downturn of a general nature member states may be allowed to temporarily depart from the adjustment path implied by prudent fiscal - policy making referred to in the fourth subparagraph . ### in periods of severe economic downturn of a general nature member states the council may allow temporarily depart from the adjustment path implied by prudent fiscal - policy making referred to in the fourth subparagraph . furthermore a clear and precise definition of severe downturn has to be inserted .


### the deviation shall not be considered if the member state concerned has significantly overachieved the medium - term budgetary objective , taking into account the presence of excessive macroeconomic imbalances , and the budgetary plans laid out in the stability programme do not jeopardise this objective over the programme period . ### the deviation shall not be considered if the member state concerned has achieved the medium - term budgetary objective , taking into account the presence of excessive macroeconomic and social imbalances , and the budgetary plans laid out in the stability programme do not jeopardise this objective over the programme period .


### the content of the stability and convergence programmes as well as the criteria for their examination should further be adapted in the light of the experience gained with the implementation of the stability and growth pact . ### the content of the stability and convergence programmes as well as the procedure and criteria for their examination should further be developed and discussed both at national and at the union level in the light of the experience gained with the implementation of the stability and growth pact , in particular regarding its contribution to growth and job creation and to the union ' s competitiveness and convergence .


### based on assessments by the commission and the economic and financial committee , the council shall , within the framework of multilateral surveillance under article 121 of the treaty , examine the medium - term budgetary objectives presented by the member states concerned , assess whether the economic assumptions on which the programme is based are plausible , whether the adjustment path towards the medium - term budgetary objective is appropriate and whether the measures being taken and / or proposed to respect that adjustment path are sufficient to achieve the medium - term budgetary objective over the cycle and to achieve sustained convergence . ### based on assessments by the commission , the economic and financial committee , the employment committee and the social protection committee , the council shall , within the framework of multilateral surveillance under article 121 tfeu and of the examination of the implementation of the employment policies in accordance with article 148 tfeu , examine the medium - term budgetary objectives and the expected path of the general debt ratio as presented by the member states concerned in their convergence programmes , assess whether the economic assumptions on which the programme is based are plausible , whether the adjustment path towards the medium - term budgetary objective is appropriate and whether the measures being taken and / or proposed to respect that adjustment path are sufficient to achieve the medium - term budgetary objective over the cycle and to achieve sustained convergence .


### as part of multilateral surveillance in accordance with article 121 of the treaty , the council shall monitor the implementation of convergence programmes , on the basis of information provided by member states with a derogation and of assessments by the commission and the economic and financial committee , in particular with a view to identifying actual or expected significant divergences of the budgetary position from the medium - term budgetary objective , or from the appropriate adjustment path towards it , ensuing from deviations from prudent fiscal - policy making . ### as part of multilateral surveillance in accordance with article 121 of the treaty , the council shall monitor the implementation of convergence programmes , on the basis of information provided by member states with a derogation and of assessments by the commission , the economic and financial committee , and the social protection committee in particular with a view to identifying actual or expected significant divergences of the budgetary position from the medium - term budgetary objective , or from the appropriate adjustment path towards it , ensuing from deviations from sustainable fiscal - policy making .


### as part of multilateral surveillance in accordance with article 121 of the treaty , the council shall monitor the implementation of convergence programmes , on the basis of information provided by member states with a derogation and of assessments by the commission and the economic and financial committee , in particular with a view to identifying actual or expected significant divergences of the budgetary position from the medium - term budgetary objective , or from the appropriate adjustment path towards it , ensuing from deviations from prudent fiscal - policy making . ### as part of multilateral surveillance in accordance with article 121 tfeu , the council and the commission shall monitor the implementation of convergence programmes , on the basis of information provided by member states with a derogation and of assessments by the commission and the economic and financial committee , in particular with a view to identifying actual or expected significant divergences of the budgetary position from the medium - term budgetary objective , or from the appropriate adjustment path towards it , ensuing from deviations from prudent fiscal - policy making .


### for member states that have not yet reached their medium - term budgetary objective , annual expenditure growth does not exceed a rate below a prudent medium - term rate of gdp growth , unless the excess is matched by discretionary revenue measures . the size of the shortfall of the growth rate of government expenditure compared to a prudent medium - term rate of gdp growth is set in such a way as to ensure an appropriate adjustment towards the medium - term budgetary objective ; ### for member states that have not yet reached their medium - term budgetary objective , annual growth in tax revenue should exceed the medium term rate of growth of gdp , whereas annual medium term expenditure growth should not exceed a rate below a prudent medium - term rate of gdp growth . the impact of unemployment benefits and other social expenditure related to the business cycle is not to be taken into account when in the calculation and assessment of the growth path of government expenditure . deviations from these indicative expenditure and growth paths shall not be seen as a problem in case these deviations are matched by discretionary measures , either on the expenditure side or the revenue side or both . the size of the shortfall of the growth rate of government expenditure compared to a prudent medium - term rate of gdp growth , and the size of the excess of growth rate of tax revenue compared to medium term gdp growth are both set in such a way as to ensure an appropriate adjustment towards the medium - term budgetary objective .


### the council shall carry out the examination of the convergence programme within at most three months of the submission of the programme . the council , on a recommendation from the commission and after consulting the economic and financial committee , shall , if necessary , deliver an opinion on the programme . where the council , in accordance with article 121 of the treaty , considers that the objectives and the content of the programme should be strengthened with particular reference to prudent fiscal - policy making , the council shall , in its opinion , invite the member state concerned to adjust its programme . ' ### the council shall carry out the examination of the convergence programme within at most three months of the submission of the programme . the council , on a recommendation from the commission and after consulting the economic and financial committee , the employment committee and the social protection committee , shall , if necessary , deliver an opinion on the programme . where the council , in accordance with articles 9 and 121 tfeu , considers that the objectives and the content of the programme should be strengthened with particular reference to efficient and sustainable fiscal - policy making , the council shall , in its opinion , invite the member state concerned to adjust its programme .


### the deviation may be equally not considered in case of severe economic downturn of a general nature . ### the deviation may be equally not considered in case of a severe economic downturn or a severe rise in unemployment .


### in the event that the significant deviation from prudent fiscal - policy making persists or is particularly serious , the council , on a recommendation from the commission , shall address a recommendation to the member state concerned to take the necessary adjustment measures . the council , on a proposal from the commission , shall make the recommendation public . ### in the event that the significant deviation from the adjustment path towards the medium term budgetary objective persists or is particularly serious , the commission , shall address a recommendation to the member state concerned to take the necessary adjustment measures . the council shall make the recommendation public and the european parliament may invite the member state concerned to explain its policies before its competent committee .


### in the event that the significant deviation from prudent fiscal policy making persists or is particularly serious , the council , on a recommendation from the commission , shall address a recommendation to the member state concerned to take the necessary adjustment measures . the council , on a proposal from the commission , shall make the recommendation public . ### in the event that the significant deviation from the adjustment path towards the medium term budgetary objective persists or is particularly serious , the commission , shall address a recommendation to the member state concerned to take the necessary adjustment measures . the council shall make the recommendation public and the european parliament may invite the member state concerned to explain its policies before its competent committee .


### for member states that have not yet reached their medium - term budgetary objective , annual expenditure growth does not exceed a rate below a prudent medium - term rate of gdp growth , unless the excess is matched by discretionary revenue measures . the size of the shortfall of the growth rate of government expenditure compared to a prudent medium - term rate of gdp growth is set in such a way as to ensure an appropriate adjustment towards the medium - term budgetary objective ; ### for member states that have not yet reached their medium - term budgetary objective , annual expenditure growth does not exceed efficient and sustainable medium - term rate of gdp growth , unless the excess is matched by discretionary revenue measures . the size of the difference of the growth rate of government expenditure compared to an efficient and sustainable medium - term rate of gdp growth is set in such a way as to ensure an appropriate adjustment towards the medium - term budgetary objective ;


### prudent fiscal policy - making implies that the growth rate of government expenditure does normally not exceed a prudent medium - term growth rate of gdp , increases in excess of that norm are matched by discretionary increases in government revenues and discretionary revenue reductions are compensated by reductions in expenditure . ### efficient and sustainable fiscal policy - making implies compliance with a set of revenue side and expenditure side rules where growth in structural fiscal revenues excluding windfall , cyclically driven and one off measures should normally not fall behind the medium growth rate of gdp over the business cycle . the growth rate of government expenditure normally does not exceed a medium - term growth rate of gdp over the business cycle , discretionary increases in excess of that norm on expenditure or discretionary reductions in tax revenues are matched by accompanying other discretionary measures , either on the side of expenditure and / or on the side of tax revenues . sustainable fiscal policy making involves taking proper and explicit account as aggravating or mitigating factors within the meaning of regulation no 1467 / 97 of long - term determinants of economic sustainability such as social inclusion , environmental externalities , in particular climate change , as well as the costs related to the internalisation of other negative externalities which represent a burden for future generations .


### a quantitative assessment of the budgetary and other economic policy measures being taken or proposed to achieve the objectives of the programme , comprising a cost - benefit analysis of major structural reforms , which have direct long - term cost - saving effects , including by raising potential growth ; ### a quantitative assessment of the budgetary and other economic policy measures being taken or proposed to achieve the objectives of the programme , comprising a cost - benefit analysis of major structural reforms , which are conducive to the achievement of the union’s growth and jobs objectives ;


### the council shall carry out the examination of the stability programme within at most three months of the submission of the programme . the council , on a recommendation from the commission and after consulting the economic and financial committee , shall , if necessary , deliver an opinion on the programme . where the council , in accordance with article 121 of the treaty , considers that the objectives and the content of the programme should be strengthened with particular reference to prudent fiscal policy - making , the council shall , in its opinion , invite the member state concerned to adjust its programme . ### the council shall examine the stability programme within at most three months of the submission of the programme . the council , on a recommendation from the commission and after consulting the economic and financial committee , shall , if necessary , deliver an opinion on the programme . where the council in accordance with 121 of the tfeu , considers that the objectives and the content of the programme should be strengthened , the council shall , in its opinion , invite the member state concerned to adjust its programme .


### the council , when assessing the adjustment path toward the medium - term budgetary objective , shall examine if the member state concerned pursues an appropriate annual improvement of its cyclically - adjusted budget balance , net of one - off and other temporary measures , required to meet its medium - term budgetary objective , with 0 . 5% of gdp as a benchmark . for member states with a high level of debt or excessive macroeconomic imbalances or both , the council shall examine whether the annual improvement of the cyclically - adjusted budget balance , net of one - off and other temporary measures is higher than 0 . 5% of gdp . the council shall take into account whether a higher adjustment effort is made in economic good times , whereas the effort may be more limited in economic bad times . ### the council and the commission , when assessing the adjustment path toward the medium - term budgetary objective , shall examine if the member state concerned pursues an appropriate annual improvement of its cyclically - adjusted budget balance , net of one - off and other temporary measures , required to meet its medium - term budgetary objective , with 0 . 5% of gdp as ordinary benchmark . for member states with a high level of debt the council and the commission shall examine whether the annual improvement of the structurally , cyclically and long term - adjusted budget balance , net of one - off and other temporary measures cover the benchmark . the council and the commission shall take into account whether a higher adjustment effort is made in economic good times , whereas the effort may be more limited in economic bad times .


### the council , when assessing the adjustment path toward the medium - term budgetary objective , shall examine if the member state concerned pursues an appropriate annual improvement of its cyclically - adjusted budget balance , net of one - off and other temporary measures , required to meet its medium - term budgetary objective , with 0 . 5% of gdp as a benchmark . for member states with a high level of debt or excessive macroeconomic imbalances or both , the council shall examine whether the annual improvement of the cyclically - adjusted budget balance , net of one - off and other temporary measures is higher than 0 . 5% of gdp . the council shall take into account whether a higher adjustment effort is made in economic good times , whereas the effort may be more limited in economic bad times . ### the council , when assessing the adjustment path toward the medium - term budgetary objective , shall examine if the member state concerned pursues an appropriate annual improvement of its cyclically - adjusted budget balance , net of one - off and other temporary measures , required to meet its medium - term budgetary objective , with 0 . 5% of gdp as a benchmark . the council shall take into account whether a higher adjustment effort is made in economic good times , whereas the effort may be more limited in economic bad times .


### contracting authorities / entities shall require tenderers to provide information on the origin of the goods and / or services contained in the tender , and their value . they shall accept self - declarations as preliminary evidence that tenders cannot be excluded pursuant to paragraph 1 . a contracting authority may ask a tenderer at any moment during the procedure to submit all or parts of the required documentation where this appears necessary to ensure the proper conduct of the procedure . the commission may adopt implementing acts establishing standard forms for declarations concerning the origin of goods and services . those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the advisory procedure referred to in article 17 . ### contracting authorities / entities shall require tenderers to provide information on the origin of the goods and / or services contained in the tender , and their value . criteria relating to fundamental workers ' rights and international law , including fundamental international conventions , including ilo 94 , in the field of labour , social and environmental law shall also be taken into account . they shall accept self - declarations as preliminary evidence that tenders cannot be excluded pursuant to paragraph 1 . a contracting authority may ask a tenderer at any moment during the procedure to submit all or parts of the required documentation where this appears necessary to ensure the proper conduct of the procedure . the commission may adopt implementing acts establishing standard forms for declarations concerning the origin of goods and services . those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the advisory procedure referred to in article 17 .


### for contracts with an estimated value equal or above eur 5 . 000 . 000 the commission should approve the intended exclusion if the international agreement concerning market access in the field of public procurement between the union and the country where the goods and / or services originate contains , for the goods and / or services for which the exclusion is proposed , explicit market access reservations taken by the union . where such an agreement does not exist , the commission should approve the exclusion where the third country maintains restrictive procurement measures leading to a lack of substantial reciprocity in market opening between the union and the third country concerned . a lack of substantial reciprocity should be presumed where restrictive procurement measures result in serious and recurring discriminations of eu economic operators , goods and services . ### for contracts with an estimated value equal or above eur 5 . 000 . 000 the commission should approve the intended exclusion if the international agreement concerning market access in the field of public procurement between the union and the country where the goods and / or services originate contains , for the goods and / or services for which the exclusion is proposed , explicit market access reservations taken by the union . where such an agreement does not exist , the commission should approve the exclusion where the third country maintains restrictive procurement measures leading to a lack of substantial reciprocity in market opening between the union and the third country concerned . a lack of substantial reciprocity should be presumed where restrictive procurement measures result in serious and recurring discriminations of eu economic operators , goods and services , or paramount eu economic interests are at stake , for instance in the field of industry . in the case of massive violations in the field of trade unions rights and international law , including fundamental international conventions , including ilo 94 , in the field of labour , social and environmental law , the commission shall equally consider a restriction of market access for the concerned goods and / or services ; .


### indicative list of eee which falls within the categories listed in annex iii : temperature exchange equipment refrigerators , freezers , equipment which automatically deliver cold products , air conditioning equipment , dehumidifying equipment , heat pumps , radiators containing oil and other temperature exchange equipment using other fluids than water for the temperature exchange 2 . screens , monitors , and equipment containing screens having a surface greater than 100 cm2 screens , televisions , lcd photo frames , monitors , laptops , notebooks . 3 . lamps straight fluorescent lamps , compact fluorescent lamps , fluorescent lamps , high intensity discharge lamps - including pressure sodium lamps and metal halide lamps , low pressure sodium lamps , led lamps . 4 . large equipment washing machines , clothes dryers , dish washing machines , cookers , electric stoves , electric hot plates , luminaires , equipment reproducing sound or images , musical equipment , appliances for knitting and weaving , large computer - mainframes , large printing machines , copying equipment , large coin slot machines , large medical devices , large monitoring and control instruments , large appliances which automatically deliver products and money , photovoltaic panels . 5 . small equipment vacuum cleaners , carpet sweepers , appliances for sewing , luminaires , microwaves , ventilation equipment , irons , toasters , electric knives , electric kettles , clocks , electric shavers , scales , appliances for hair and body care , personal computers , printers , calculators , telephones , mobile phones , radio sets , video cameras , video recorders , hi - fi equipment , musical instruments , equipment reproducing sound or images , electrical and electronic toys , sports equipment , computers for biking , diving , running , rowing , etc . , smoke detector , heating regulators , thermostats , small electrical and electronic tools , small medical devices , small monitoring and control instruments , small appliances which automatically deliver products , small equipment with integrated photovoltaic panels . ### indicative list of eee which falls within the categories listed in annex iii : temperature exchange equipment – refrigerators – freezers – appliances for the automatic dispensing or sale of cold products – air - conditioning appliances – dehumidifiers – heat pumps – radiators containing oil – and other temperature exchange equipment using other fluids than water for the temperature exchange 2 . screens and monitors – screens – televisions – lcd photo frames – monitors 3 . lamps – straight fluorescent lamps – compact fluorescent lamps – fluorescent lamps – high intensity discharge lamps , including pressure sodium lamps and metal halide lamps – low pressure sodium lamps – led lamps 4 . large appliances – large appliances used for cooking and other processing of foods – extractor hoods – large machines for cleaning – large heating appliances – large body - care appliances – large it and telecommunications appliances – large sports and leisure appliances – sound or picture reproduction equipment – musical equipment – large luminaires and other appliances for spreading or controlling light – large electrical and electronic industrial tools and machinery except large - scale stationary industrial tools and non - road mobile machinery and appliances intended exclusively for professional users – large appliances for generating or transferring current , inverters ) – large medical devices – large monitoring and control instruments – large measuring instruments and installations – large appliances for automated product sales or dispensing and for the automated provision of simple services – photovoltaic panels 5 . small appliances – small appliances used for cooking and other processing of foods – small cleaning appliances – fans , air fresheners , ventilation equipment – small heating appliances – clocks , watches , alarm clocks and other time - measuring instruments – small body - care appliances – cameras – consumer electronics appliances – musical instruments and sound equipment – small luminaires and other appliances for spreading or controlling light – toys – small items of sports equipment – small leisure appliances – small electrical and electronic tools including gardening equipment – sewing machines – small appliances for generating or transferring current , converters ) – small medical devices including veterinary devices – small monitoring and control instruments – small measuring appliances – small appliances for automated product sales or dispensing – small equipment with integrated photovoltaic panels 6 . small it and telecommunications equipment – laptops – notebooks – small it and telecommunications appliances


### large equipment washing machines , clothes dryers , dish washing machines , cookers , electric stoves , electric hot plates , luminaires , equipment reproducing sound or images , musical equipment , appliances for knitting and weaving , large computer - mainframes , large printing machines , copying equipment , large coin slot machines , large medical devices , large monitoring and control instruments , large appliances which automatically deliver products and money , photovoltaic panels . ### large appliances – large appliances used for cooking and other processing of foods – extractor hoods – large machines for cleaning – large heating appliances – large body - care appliances – large it and telecommunications appliances – large sports and leisure appliances – equipment reproducing sound or images – musical equipment – large electrical and electronic industrial tools and machinery except large - scale stationary industrial tools and non - road mobile machinery and appliances intended exclusively for professional users – large appliances for generating or transferring current , inverters ) – large medical devices – large monitoring and control instruments – large measuring instruments and installations – large appliances for automated product sales or dispensing and for the automated provision of simple services


### small equipment vacuum cleaners , carpet sweepers , appliances for sewing , luminaires , microwaves , ventilation equipment , irons , toasters , electric knives , electric kettles , clocks , electric shavers , scales , appliances for hair and body care , personal computers , printers , calculators , telephones , mobile phones , radio sets , video cameras , video recorders , hi - fi equipment , musical instruments , equipment reproducing sound or images , electrical and electronic toys , sports equipment , computers for biking , diving , running , rowing , etc . , smoke detector , heating regulators , thermostats , small electrical and electronic tools , small medical devices , small monitoring and control instruments , small appliances which automatically deliver products , small equipment with integrated photovoltaic panels . ### small appliances – small appliances used for cooking and other processing of foods – small cleaning appliances – fans , air fresheners , ventilation equipment – small heating appliances – clocks , watches , alarm clocks and other time - measuring instruments – small body - care appliances – cameras – consumer electronics appliances – musical instruments and sound equipment – toys – small items of sports equipment – small leisure appliances – small electrical and electronic tools including gardening equipment – sewing machines – small appliances for generating or transferring current , converters ) – small medical devices including veterinary devices – small monitoring and control instruments – small measuring appliances – small appliances for automated product sales or dispensing – small equipment with integrated photovoltaic panels


### lamps ### lamps and luminaires


### thematic strategy papers shall be approved and multiannual indicative programmes shall be adopted by the commission in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 15 of the common implementing regulation . this procedure shall also apply to substantial reviews which have the effect of modifying significantly the strategy or its programming . ### strategy papers shall be approved and multiannual indicative programmes shall be adopted by the commission in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 15 of the common implementing regulation . this procedure shall also apply to substantial reviews which have the effect of modifying significantly the strategy or its programming .


### in the period 2014 to 2020 at least 65 percentage points of the financial envelope shall be allocated to measures falling under article 3 . ### in the period 2014 to 2020 at least 70 percentage points of the financial envelope shall be allocated to measures falling under article 3 , and 15 and 10 percentage points to measures falling under articles 4 and 5 respectively .


### support for measures to ensure that the specific needs of women and children in crisis and conflict situations , including their exposure to gender - based violence , are adequately met ; ### support for measures to ensure that the specific needs of women and children in crisis and conflict situations , including their exposure to gender - based violence , are immediately and adequately met ;


### support for measures necessary to start the rehabilitation and reconstruction of key infrastructure , housing , public buildings and economic assets , as well as essential productive capacity , as well as other measures for the re - starting of economic activity and the generation of employment and the establishment of the minimum conditions necessary for sustainable social development ; ### support for the necessary measures to rehabilitate and reconstruct the key infrastructure , housing , public buildings and economic assets , as well as for the essential productive capacity and for the re - starting of economic activity , for the generation of employment and the establishment of the minimum conditions necessary for sustainable social development and also for maintaining an accessible healthcare and education system ;


### . promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms , enhanced respect for minority rights , promotion of gender equality , non - discrimination and freedom of the press , and promotion of good neighbourly relations ; ### . promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms , enhanced respect for minority rights and the rights of people with disabilities , protection of vulnerable groups , promotion of gender equality , non - discrimination and freedom of the press , and promotion of good neighbourly relations ;


### development of physical capital , the improvement of connections with union and regional networks . ### development of physical capital , the improvement of connections with union and regional networks , including accessible environment to increase physical mobility of people with reduced mobility .


### assistance under this regulation should be provided in accordance with the enlargement policy framework defined by the union for each beneficiary country reflected in the annual enlargement package of the commission , which includes the progress reports and the enlargement strategy , in the stabilisation and association agreements and in the european or accession partnerships . assistance should mainly focus on a limited number of policy areas that will help beneficiary countries strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law , reform the judiciary and public administration , respect fundamental rights and promote gender equality and non - discrimination . it should also enhance their economic and social development , underpinning a smart , sustainable and inclusive growth agenda in line with the europe 2020 strategy and to align progressively with the copenhagen criteria . the coherence between the financial assistance and the overall progress made in the implementation of the pre - accession strategy should be strengthened . ### assistance under this regulation should be provided in accordance with the enlargement policy framework defined by the union for each beneficiary country reflected in the annual enlargement package of the commission , which includes the progress reports and the enlargement strategy , in the stabilisation and association agreements and in the european or accession partnerships , as well as in the relevant resolutions of the european parliament and conclusions of the european council . assistance should mainly focus on a selected number of policy areas that will help beneficiary countries strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law , reform the judiciary and public administration , respect fundamental rights , including the rights of persons belonging to minorities , and promote tolerance , non - discrimination , social inclusion , respect of workers ' rights and gender equality . it should also enhance their economic and social development , underpinning a smart , sustainable and inclusive growth agenda in line with the europe 2020 strategy and to align progressively with the copenhagen criteria . there should be a strengthening of coherence between the financial assistance and the overall progress made in the implementation of the pre - accession strategy , measured by clear , specific and transparent performance indicators .


### promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms , enhanced respect for minority rights , promotion of gender equality , non - discrimination and freedom of the press , and promotion of good neighbourly relations ; ### promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms , enhanced respect for minority rights , promotion of gender equality and religious freedom , non - discrimination and freedom of the press , the media and the internet and promotion of good neighbourly relations ;


### a european state which has applied to join the union can become a member only when it has been confirmed that it meets the membership criteria agreed at the copenhagen european council in june 1993 and provided that the accession does not overstretch the capacity of the union to integrate the new member . these criteria relate to the stability of institutions guaranteeing democracy , the rule of law , respect of human rights and respect for , and protection of , minorities , the development of the economy that must be sufficient to withstand the competitive pressure in the internal market , and the ability to assume not only the rights but also the obligations under the treaties . ### a european state which has applied to join the union can become a member only when it has been confirmed that it meets the accession criteria agreed at the copenhagen european council in june 1993 and provided that the accession does not overstretch the capacity of the union to integrate the new member . the accession criteria relate to the stability of institutions guaranteeing democracy , the rule of law , human rights and respect for and protection of minorities , the existence of a functioning market economy , the capacity to cope with competitive pressure and market forces within the union , and the ability to assume not only the rights but also the obligations under the treaties including adherence to the aims of political , economic and monetary union .


### . promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms , enhanced respect for minority rights , promotion of gender equality , non - discrimination and freedom of the press , and promotion of good neighbourly relations ; ### . the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms , respect for minority rights , the promotion of gender equality , non - discrimination , tolerance and freedom of the media ;


### a european state which has applied to join the union can become a member only when it has been confirmed that it meets the membership criteria agreed at the copenhagen european council in june 1993 and provided that the accession does not overstretch the capacity of the union to integrate the new member . these criteria relate to the stability of institutions guaranteeing democracy , the rule of law , respect of human rights and respect for , and protection of , minorities , the development of the economy that must be sufficient to withstand the competitive pressure in the internal market , and the ability to assume not only the rights but also the obligations under the treaties . ### a european state which has applied to join the union can become a member only when it has been confirmed that it meets the accession criteria agreed at the copenhagen european council in june 1993 and provided that the accession does not overstretch the capacity of the union to integrate the new member . these criteria relate to the stability of institutions guaranteeing democracy , the rule of law , good governance , respect of human rights and respect for , and protection of , minorities , the development of the economy that must be sufficient to withstand the competitive pressure in the internal market , and the ability to assume not only the rights but also , and most importantly , the obligations under the treaties .


### the development of civil society and social dialogue ; ### the development of civil society and the launching and strengthening of the social dialogue ;


### . fostering employment and developing human capital ; ### . the fostering of decent employment , the stimulation of domestic and international investment for quality job creation , the promotion of labour mobility and the development of human capital ;


### assistance under this regulation should be provided in accordance with the enlargement policy framework defined by the union for each beneficiary country reflected in the annual enlargement package of the commission , which includes the progress reports and the enlargement strategy , in the stabilisation and association agreements and in the european or accession partnerships . assistance should mainly focus on a limited number of policy areas that will help beneficiary countries strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law , reform the judiciary and public administration , respect fundamental rights and promote gender equality and non - discrimination . it should also enhance their economic and social development , underpinning a smart , sustainable and inclusive growth agenda in line with the europe 2020 strategy and to align progressively with the copenhagen criteria . the coherence between the financial assistance and the overall progress made in the implementation of the pre - accession strategy should be strengthened . ### assistance under this regulation should be provided in accordance with the enlargement policy framework defined by the union for each beneficiary country reflected in the annual enlargement package of the commission , which includes the progress reports and the enlargement strategy , in the stabilisation and association agreements and in the european or accession partnerships . assistance should mainly focus on a limited number of policy areas that will help beneficiary countries strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law , reform the judiciary and public administration , respect fundamental rights , promote and mainstream gender equality and non - discrimination . it should also enhance their economic and social development , underpinning a smart , sustainable and inclusive growth agenda , increasing its support for the fight against social exclusion and poverty in line with the europe 2020 strategy and to align progressively with the copenhagen criteria . the coherence between the financial assistance and the overall progress made in the implementation of the pre - accession strategy should be strengthened .


### the accession process is based on objective criteria and the application of the principle of equal treatment of all applicant countries . progression towards accession depends on the capacity of the applicant country to undertake the necessary reforms to align its political , institutional , legal , administrative and economic systems with the rules , standards , policies and practices in the union . ### the accession process is based on objective criteria and the application of the principle of equal treatment of all applicant countries . progression towards accession depends on the capacity of the applicant country to undertake the necessary reforms to align its political , institutional , legal , administrative and economic systems with the principles , rules , standards , policies and practices in the union .


### projects of common interest in the fields of electricity , gas and carbon dioxide should be eligible to receive union financial assistance for studies and , under certain conditions , for works under the proposed regulation for a connecting europe facility , either in the form of grants or in the form of innovative financial instruments . this will ensure tailor - made support can be provided to those projects of common interest which are not viable under the existing regulatory framework and market conditions . such financial assistance should ensure the necessary synergies with funding from instruments under other union policies . in particular , the connecting europe facility will finance energy infrastructure of european relevance , while structural funds will finance smart energy distribution networks of local or regional importance . the two sources of funding will thereby complement each other . ### projects of common interest in the fields of electricity , gas and carbon dioxide , or to develop and set up energy infrastructure to decarbonise transport , should be eligible to receive union financial assistance for studies and , under certain conditions , for works under the proposed regulation for a connecting europe facility , either in the form of grants or in the form of innovative financial instruments . this will ensure that tailor - made support can be provided to those projects of common interest which are not viable under the existing regulatory framework and market conditions . such financial assistance should ensure the necessary synergies with funding from instruments under other union policies . in particular , the connecting europe facility will finance energy infrastructure of european relevance , while structural funds will finance smart energy distribution networks of local or regional importance . the two sources of funding will thereby complement each other .


### projects of common interest in the fields of electricity , gas and carbon dioxide should be eligible to receive union financial assistance for studies and , under certain conditions , for works under the proposed regulation for a connecting europe facility , either in the form of grants or in the form of innovative financial instruments . this will ensure tailor - made support can be provided to those projects of common interest which are not viable under the existing regulatory framework and market conditions . such financial assistance should ensure the necessary synergies with funding from instruments under other union policies . in particular , the connecting europe facility will finance energy infrastructure of european relevance , while structural funds will finance smart energy distribution networks of local or regional importance . the two sources of funding will thereby complement each other . ### projects of common interest in the fields of electricity and gas should be eligible to receive union financial assistance for studies and , under certain conditions , for works under the proposed regulation for a connecting europe facility , either in the form of grants or in the form of innovative financial instruments . this will ensure that tailor - made support can be provided to those projects of common interest which are not viable under the existing regulatory framework and market conditions . such financial assistance should ensure the necessary synergies with funding from instruments under other union policies . in particular , the connecting europe facility will finance energy infrastructure of european relevance , while structural funds will finance smart energy distribution networks of local or regional importance . the two sources of funding will thereby complement each other .


### a name proposed for registration that is wholly or partially homonymous with a name already entered in the register established under article 11 may be registered provided there is sufficient distinction in practice between conditions of usage and presentation of the homonym registered subsequently and the name already entered in the register , so as to not mislead the consumer . ### a name proposed for registration that is wholly or partially homonymous with a name already entered in the register established under article 11 may not be registered unless there is sufficient distinction in practice between conditions of local and traditional usage and presentation of the homonym registered subsequently and the name already entered in the register , so as to not mislead the consumer into believing that products come from another territory even if the name is accurate as far as the actual territory , region or place of origin of the agricultural products or foodstuffs in question is concerned .


### any direct or indirect commercial use of a registered name in respect of products not covered by the registration insofar as those products are comparable to the products registered under that name or insofar as using the name exploits the reputation of the protected name ; ### any direct or indirect commercial use of a registered name in respect of products not covered by the registration insofar as those products are comparable to the products registered under that name or insofar as using the name exploits the reputation of the protected name , including in cases where they are used as ingredients ;


### operators preparing and storing a traditional speciality , protected designation of origin or protected geographical indication or who places such traditional speciality guaranteed , protected designation of origin and protected geographical indication on the market shall also be subject to the system of controls as referred to in chapter i of this title . ### operators preparing , packaging , storing or placing on the market products with protected designation of origin , protected geographical indication or traditional speciality guaranteed , shall also be subject to the system of controls as referred to in chapter i of this title .


### a name shall be eligible for registration as a traditional speciality guaranteed where it describes a specific processed product that : ### a name shall be eligible for registration as a traditional speciality guaranteed where it describes a specific product that :


### to ensure that names of genuine traditional products are registered under the scheme , other criteria and conditions for registration of a name should be reviewed , in particular concerning the definition of ' traditional ' that should be changed to cover products that have been produced for a highly significant period of time . to improve protection of the culinary heritage of the union , the scope of the traditional specialities guaranteed scheme should henceforth be more clearly focussed on prepared meals and processed products . ### to ensure that names of genuine traditional products are registered under the scheme , other criteria and conditions for registration of a name should be reviewed , in particular concerning the definition of ' traditional ' that should be changed to cover products that have been produced for a highly significant period of time .


### results from a mode of production and composition corresponding to traditional practice for that product , and ### results from a mode of production or composition corresponding to traditional practice for that product , or


### in the case of products originating in the union , marketed under a protected designation of origin or a protected geographical indication registered in accordance with the procedures laid down in this regulation , the indications ‘ protected designation of origin’ or ‘ protected geographical indication’ or the union symbols associated with them shall appear on the labelling . in addition , the corresponding abbreviations ' pdo ' or ' pgi ' may appear on the labelling . ### in the case of products originating in the union , marketed under a protected designation of origin or a protected geographical indication registered in accordance with the procedures laid down in this regulation , the union symbols associated with them shall appear on the labelling . in addition , the indications ‘ protected designation of origin’ or ‘ protected geographical indication’ or the corresponding abbreviations ' pdo ' or ' pgi ' may appear on the labelling .


### member states shall take the appropriate administrative and judicial steps to prevent or stop the unlawful use of protected designations of origin and protected geographical indications as referred to in paragraph 1 , in particular at the request of a producer group as provided for in point of article 42 . ### member states shall take the appropriate administrative and judicial steps to prevent or stop the unlawful use of protected designations of origin and protected geographical indications , as referred to in paragraph 1 , that are produced or marketed in that member state .


### in the case of products originating in third countries marketed under a name entered in the register , the indications referred to in paragraph 3 or the union symbols associated with them may appear on the labelling . ### in the case of products originating in third countries marketed under a name entered in the register in accordance with chapter iv of title v of this regulation , the indications referred to in paragraph 3 or the union symbols associated with them may appear on the labelling .


### ‘ group’ means any association , irrespective of its legal form , mainly composed of producers or processors working with the same product ; ### ‘ group’ means any association , irrespective of its legal form , mainly composed of operators who produce , process or produce and process the product ;


### delegated acts the powers to adopt the delegated acts referred to in this regulation shall be conferred on the commission for an indeterminate period of time . as soon as it adopts a delegated act , the commission shall notify it simultaneously to the european parliament and to the council . 2 . the delegation of powers referred to in paragraph 1 may be revoked at any time by the european parliament or by the council . the institution which has commenced an internal procedure for deciding whether to revoke the delegation of powers shall inform the other legislator and the commission , at least one month before the final decision is taken , indicating the delegated powers which could be subject to revocation and possible reasons for a revocation . the decision of revocation shall put an end to the delegation of the powers specified in that decision . it shall take effect immediately or at a later date specified therein . it shall not affect the validity of the delegated acts already in force . it shall be published in the official journal of the european union . 3 . the european parliament and the council may object to a delegated act within a period of two months from the date of notification . at the initiative of the european parliament or the council this period shall be extended by two months . if , on expiry of that period , neither the european parliament nor the council has objected to the delegated act , it shall be published in the official journal of the european union and shall enter into force at the date stated therein . the delegated act may be published in the official journal of the european union and enter into force before the expiry of that period if the european parliament and the council have both informed the commission of their intention not to raise objections . if the european parliament or the council raises objections in respect of the delegated act , it shall not enter into force . the institution which has raised objections to the delegated act shall state the reasons therefore . ### exercise of the delegation the power to adopt delegated acts is conferred on the commission subject to the conditions laid down in this article . 2 . the delegation of powers referred to in articles 2 , 5 , 7 , 12 , 16 , 18 , 19 , 23 , 25 , 28 , 29 , 38 , 39 , 46 , 46 , 48 , 50 , 51 shall be conferred on the commission for a period of five years from . . . * . the commission shall draw up a report in respect of the delegated powers no later than nine months before the end of the five - year period . the delegation of power shall be tacitly extended for periods of an identical duration , unless the european parliament or the council opposes such extension not later than three months before the end of each period . 3 . the delegation of powers may be revoked at any time by the european parliament or by the council . the decision of revocation shall put an end to the delegation of power specified in that decision . it shall take effect the day following the publication of the decision in the official journal of the european union or on a later date specified therein . it shall not affect the validity of any delegated acts already in force . 4 . as soon as it adopts a delegated act , the commission shall notify it simultaneously to the european parliament and to the council . 5 . a delegated act adopted pursuant to this regulation shall enter into force only if no objection has been expressed either by the european parliament or the council within a period of two months of adoption of that act or if , before the expiry of that period , the european parliament and the council have both informed the commission that they will not object . that period shall be extended by two months at the initiative of the european parliament or the council . * date of the entry into force of this regulation


### a member state may , on a transitional basis only , grant protection to a name under this regulation at national level , with effect from the date on which an application is lodged with the commission . ### a member state may , on a transitional basis only , grant protection to a name or accept an amendment to a product specification under this regulation at national level , with effect from the date on which an application is lodged with the commission .


### no product is placed on the market under the traditional speciality guaranteed , the protected designation of origin or the protected geographical indication for at least five years . ### no product is placed on the market under the traditional speciality guaranteed , the protected designation of origin or the protected geographical indication for at least ten years .


### names registered in accordance with the requirements laid down in the first subparagraph of article 1 , and in article 13 of regulation no 509 / 2006 , including those registered pursuant to applications referred to in the second subparagraph of article 55 of this regulation , may continue to be used under the conditions provided for in regulation no 509 / 2006 , until 31 december 2017 . ### names registered in accordance with the requirements laid down in the first subparagraph of article 1 , and in article 13 of regulation no 509 / 2006 , including those registered pursuant to applications referred to in the second subparagraph of article 55 of this regulation , may continue to be used under the conditions provided for in regulation no 509 / 2006 , until 31 december 2017 , unless member states use the procedure set out in paragraph 2a of this article .


### the agency may object to the information submitted or parts thereof on grounds related to non - compliance with the provisions of title viiia of directive 2001 / 83 / ec within 60 days after receipt of the notification . if the agency does not object within 60 days , the information shall be deemed accepted and may be published . ### the agency may object to the information submitted or parts thereof on grounds related to non - compliance with the provisions of title viiia of directive 2001 / 83 / ec , stating the grounds for its decision , within 120 days after receipt of the notification . if the agency does not object within 120 days , the information shall be deemed accepted and may be published .


### to appeal to the average consumer and to serve the informative purpose for which it is introduced , and given the current level of knowledge on the subject of nutrition , the information provided should be simple and easily understood . research has indicated that consumers find the information in the principal field of view or ' front of pack ' is useful when making purchasing decisions . therefore , to ensure that the consumers can readily see the essential nutrition information when purchasing foods such information should be in the principal field of view of the label . ### to appeal to the average consumer and to serve the informative purpose for which it is introduced , and given the current level of knowledge on the subject of nutrition , the information provided should be simple and easily understood . research has indicated that consumers find the information in the principal field of view or ' front of pack ' is useful when making purchasing decisions . therefore , to ensure that the consumers can readily see the essential nutrition information when purchasing foods , ' the energy value ' should be indicated in the principal field of vision on the front of the pack , through a multiple colour coding system . however , all nutrition information should be placed together in one place in the same field of vision on the package .


### member states should retain the right , depending on local practical conditions and circumstances , to lay down rules in respect of the provision of information concerning non - prepacked foods . although in such cases the consumer demand for other information is limited , information on potential allergens is considered very important . evidence suggests that most food allergy incidents can be traced back to non - prepacked food . therefore such information should always be provided to the consumer . ### member states should retain the right , depending on local practical conditions and circumstances , to lay down rules in respect of the provision of information concerning non - prepacked foods and prepacked foods and meals produced and directly supplied by local retail establishments or mass caterers to the final consumer . although in such cases the consumer demand for other information is limited , information on potential allergens is considered very important . evidence suggests that most food allergy incidents can be traced back to non - prepacked food . therefore such information should always be provided to the consumer .


### the minimum font size referred to in paragraph 1 shall not apply in case of packaging or containers the largest surface of which has an area of less than 10 cm2 . ### the minimum font size referred to in paragraph 1 shall not apply in the case of packaging or containers the largest surface of which has an area of less than 25 cm2 . specific national provisions may be adopted for such packaging or containers in the case of member states which have more than one official language .


### - food in packaging or containers the largest surface of which has an area of less than 25 cm2 ; ### - food in packaging or containers the largest surface of which , or in the case of bottles the largest label of which , has an area of less than 25 cm2 ;


### the mandatory nutrition declaration shall be expressed , as appropriate , as a percentage of the reference intakes set out in part b of annex xi in relation to per 100 g or per 100 ml or per portion . when provided , the declaration on vitamins and minerals shall also be expressed as a percentage of the reference intakes set out in point 1 of part a of annex xi . ### the levels of the nutrients on the front of pack nutrition declaration referred to in article 29 shall be indicated through a multiple - colour coding system . the colours green , amber and red shall indicate whether a food is low , medium or high in those nutrients . that information shall be communicated per 100g or per 100ml . the definition of the reference amounts for high , medium and low levels of those nutrients shall be established in accordance with the regulatory procedure with scrutiny referred to in article 49 , based on an opinion of the european food safety authority .


### the particulars referred to article&#160 ; 31 related to the mandatory nutrition declaration shall be included in the principal field of vision . they shall be presented , where appropriate , together in a clear format in the following order : energy , fat , saturates , carbohydrates with specific reference to sugars , and salt . ### the particulars referred to article&#160 ; 31 related to the mandatory nutrition declaration shall be displayed in the same field of vision . they shall be presented , where appropriate , together in a clear format in the following order : energy , fat , saturates , carbohydrates with specific reference to sugars , and salt .


### the amounts of fat , saturates , carbohydrates with specific reference to sugars , and salt . ### the amounts of protein , fat , saturates , carbohydrates with specific reference to sugars , and salt .


### the amount of energy and nutrients referred to in paragraph 1 shall be expressed per 100 g or per 100 ml or , subject to article 32 and , per portion . ### the amount of energy and nutrients or their components referred to in paragraph 1 shall be expressed per 100 g or per 100 ml . the amount referred to in paragraph 1 may also be expressed per portion .


### food labels should be clear and understandable to assist consumers wanting to make better - informed food and dietary choices . studies show that legibility is an important element in maximising the possibility that labelled information can influence its audience and that the small print size is one of the main causes of consumer dissatisfaction with food labels . ### food labels should be clear and understandable to assist consumers wanting to make better - informed food and dietary choices . studies show that legibility is an important element in maximising the possibility that labelled information can influence its audience and consequently factors such as size , font , colour and contrast should be considered together to ensure consumer satisfaction with food labels .


### - waters intended for human consumption , including those where the only added ingredients are carbon dioxide and / or flavourings ; ### - natural mineral waters or other waters intended for human consumption , including those where the only added ingredients are carbon dioxide and / or flavourings ;


### texte proposé par la commission the country of origin or place of provenance where failure to indicate this might mislead the consumer to a material degree as to the true country of origin or place of provenance of the food , in particular if the information accompanying the food or the label as a whole would otherwise imply that the food has a different country of origin or place of provenance ; in such cases the indication shall be in accordance with the rules laid down in article 35 and and those established in accordance with article 35 ; ### amendement the country of origin or place of provenance including for non - processed foods where failure to indicate this might mislead the consumer to a material degree as to the true country of origin or place of provenance of the food , in particular if the information accompanying the food or the label as a whole would otherwise imply that the food has a different country of origin or place of provenance ; in such cases the indication shall be in accordance with the rules laid down in article 35 and and those established in accordance with article 35 ;


### in addition to the nutrition declaration per 100g or per 100ml referred to in article 31 , the information may be expressed per portion as quantified on the label , provided that the number of portions contained in the package is stated . ### in addition to the nutrition declaration per 100g or per 100ml referred to in article 31 , the information may be expressed per portion as quantified on the label , provided that the number of portions contained in the package is stated and the portions are all identical .


### the date of minimum durability or the ' use by ' date ; ### the date of minimum durability or , in the case of foodstuffs which , from the microbiological point of view , are perishable , the ' use by ' date ;


### the commission may support initiatives accelerating the emergence of competitive industries based on cross - sectoral activities in areas characterised by a high proportion of smes and with a high contribution to the union ' s gdp . such initiatives shall stimulate development of new markets and the supply of goods and services based on the most competitive business models or on modified value - chains . they shall include initiatives to enhance productivity , resource efficiency , sustainability and corporate social responsibility . ### the commission may support initiatives accelerating the emergence of competitive industries based on cross - sectoral activities in areas characterised by a high proportion of smes and with a high contribution to the union ' s gdp , and the emergence of innovative industries , such as creative industries linked to ict innovations . such initiatives shall stimulate development of new markets and the supply of goods and services based on the most competitive business models or on modified value - chains . they shall include initiatives to enhance productivity , resource efficiency , sustainability and corporate social responsibility .


### to improve framework conditions for the competitiveness and sustainability of union enterprises including in the tourism sector ; ### to improve framework conditions for the sustainable competitiveness of union enterprises ;


### as outlined in the commission communication of 30 june 2010 , entitled ‘ europe , the world ' s no 1 tourist destination – a new political framework for tourism in europe’ , which was endorsed by the european council conclusions of october 2010 , tourism is an important sector of the union economy . enterprises in this sector substantially contribute to the union ' s gross domestic product and job creation and have significant potential for the development of entrepreneurial activity , since it is run mainly by smes . the lisbon treaty acknowledges the importance of tourism outlining the union specific competences in this field which complement the actions of member states . there is clear added value for the tourism initiative at union level , especially in providing data and analysis , in developing transnational promotion strategies and in exchanging best practices . ### as outlined in the commission communication of 30 june 2010 , entitled ' europe , the world ' s no 1 tourist destination – a new political framework for tourism in europe ' , which was endorsed by the european council conclusions of october 2010 , tourism is an important sector of the union economy . enterprises in this sector substantially contribute with 10% of the union ' s gross domestic product and 12 % of total employment , making it the third most substantial socio - economic activity in the eu , and have significant potential for the development of entrepreneurial activity , since it is run mainly by smes .


### the financial envelope for implementing the programme shall be eur 2 . 522 billion , of which approximately eur 1 . 4 billion shall be allocated to financial instruments . ### within the meaning of point [ 17 ] of the interinstitutional agreement of xxx / 201z . between the european parliament , the council and the commission on cooperation in budgetary matters and sound financial management , the financial envelope for implementing the programme for its entire duration shall be [ . . . ] of the total 2014 - 2020 mff ceilings , of which approximately 60 % shall be allocated to financial instruments . that amount shall constitute the prime reference for the budgetary authority during the annual budgetary procedure .


### global competition , demographic changes , resource constraints and emerging social trends generate challenges and opportunities for some sectors . for example , design - based sectors facing global challenges and characterised by a high proportion of smes need to adapt to reap the benefits and harness the untapped potential of high demand for personalised , inclusive products . as these challenges apply to all smes in the union in these sectors , a concerted effort at union level is necessary . ### global competition , demographic changes , the limited nature of natural resources , and emerging social trends generate challenges and opportunities for many sectors facing global challenges and characterised by a high proportion of smes . for example , design - based sectors need to adapt in order to benefit from the untapped potential of high demand for personalised , inclusive products . design - based consumer goods represent an important economic sector in the union and its enterprises contribute substantially to growth and jobs . as these challenges apply to all smes in the union in these sectors , a concerted effort at union level is necessary in order to create additional growth .


### as outlined in the commission communication of 30 june 2010 , entitled ‘ europe , the world ' s no 1 tourist destination – a new political framework for tourism in europe’ , which was endorsed by the european council conclusions of october 2010 , tourism is an important sector of the union economy . enterprises in this sector substantially contribute to the union ' s gross domestic product and job creation and have significant potential for the development of entrepreneurial activity , since it is run mainly by smes . the lisbon treaty acknowledges the importance of tourism outlining the union specific competences in this field which complement the actions of member states . there is clear added value for the tourism initiative at union level , especially in providing data and analysis , in developing transnational promotion strategies and in exchanging best practices . ### as outlined in the commission communication of 30 june 2010 , entitled ‘ europe , the world ' s no 1 tourist destination – a new political framework for tourism in europe’ , which was endorsed by the european council conclusions of october 2010 , tourism is an important sector of the union economy . enterprises in this sector substantially contribute with 10% of the union ' s gross domestic product and 12% of total employment , making it the third most substantial socio - economic activity in the eu , and have significant potential for the development of entrepreneurial activity , since it is run mainly by smes .