Recitals
THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Economic Community, and in particular Articles 44 and 95 thereof,
Having regard to the proposal from the Commission,
Having regard to the Opinion of the Economic and Social Committee [OJ C 116, 20.4.2001, p. 69.],
Acting in accordance with the procedure laid down in Article 251 of the Treaty [Opinion of the European Parliament of 14 March 2001 (not yet published in the Official Journal) and Council Decision of 7 May 2001.],