This authority's main priority will be to provide us in Europe with independent scientific advice in relation to all safety-related issues. We will strive to employ independent scientists of the highest quality. The institution will work transparently. It will provide information to consumers and engage in a dialogue with us as policy-makers. Regulators have to make their decisions on the best scientific advice available but they must retain the right and the responsibility to make final decisions, as they are accountable for their actions to the citizens.
Risk management has to be distinct from risk assessment which is undertaken by the scientists.
There is no zero risk, but we can minimise the risks through risk management and by using if necessary the precautionary principle. Secondly, when it comes to international trade, the WTO work should not only be about liberalisation but also about establishing rules for trade in goods and services which will ensure protection for consumers. We have a legally binding WTO Agreement on the application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures, to which we all signed up. That SPS Agreement, which has now been clarified in a number of respects by the Appellate Body under the Dispute Settlement Understanding in the beef hormone, and other SPS cases, sets out the conditions under which sanitary and phytosanitary measures which impact on international trade can be taken. In particular, it is now absolutely clear that WTO Members are free to choose the highest level of health protection that they deem necessary, and take the measures, including trade measures, necessary to ensure that the chosen level of protection is achieved, provided a number of conditions are met.