Health Commissioner Dalli meets EU Parliament

Dalli agrees research is needed on all health determinants but points at resource constraints. The new Commissioner speaks in favour of more investment in prevention campaigns where the Commission can play a role.

In his first appearance before the ENVI (Public Health and Environment) Committee of the European Parliament, Commissioner Dalli outlined the main priorities for his mandate and this year's work programme.

Dalli spoke about his plans to present a proposal to revise the tobacco products Directive to cover new products, improve health warnings and citizens' information on the dangers of tobacco; and to better protect young people. Dalli said “We all know tobacco is addictive. Tobacco kills. Europe could save many lives and much suffering if we reduce tobacco consumption”.

He also spoke about his intention to review the Directives on clinical trials, veterinary medicinal products and medical devices and mentioned that the Work Programme also includes a review of the rules on the financing of official controls for food and feed.

The Commissioner also spoke about GMOs, cloning, pharmaceuticals, cross border health care, nutrition and health claims and said that “the concept of nutrient profiles is extremely important to enable consumers to make a balanced and well-informed choice”.
He stated that the work programme for 2010 and beyond needs to have a strong innovation angle, “I am "pro innovation (...) but not at any cost”. “I will pursue a policy of responsible innovation”.

Mr Dalli also announced to make proposals for a modern EU response to global health threats later in 2011.

Although the Commissioner did not mention alcohol in his speech, MEP Nessa Childers (S&D, IE) called for a research programme on the health consequences of alcohol and called on Dalli to build on the Swedish Presidency conclusions and take bolder action i.e. on prices. Dalli agreed they needed research on all health determinants but there were resource constraints. They should invest more in prevention campaigns where the Commission can play a role.

Click here to read his speech

Click here to read a briefing of the meeting