The point is that I attach great importance to the continuing development of the social dialogue and to the participation of the social partners in the preparation of measures which would be dealt with at European level. We must remember as well that the Commission intends next year to present a discussion document on the whole arrangement as far as the social dialogue is concerned. Following the Maastricht Treaty we recognize the need for the formal obligation to consult with the social partners, and that is being honoured. We have had once instance where this was tried, Mr De Clercq, and you know I am referring to information and consultation of the European Works Council. It did not work but it was a very close thing and I was hugely disappointed that on our first attempt we did not succeed in that regard. It is my intention to try again. I have already had some initial discussions with the social partners insofar as reconciliation of working life and family life are concerned.

I also take note of what you say about the question of representatives and the right to participate. We set out our views in the communication that the Commission put forward on the social protocol. It is ultimately a matter for the social partners themselves to decide who is going to participate. We have no great objection as long as there is an agreed understanding between the social partners that they should contribute to it. Obviously, we are going to look at this again. It is a question of trial and error. We have been working on it to date. We have not had great success but I am of the belief that it is fundamental to the future of the Union that we should concentrate on getting a better understanding between the social partners and, in the final analysis, I would much prefer it if the social partners came together and made their own arrangements without the involvement of the Commission at all insofar as the legislative process is concerned.

I take note of what you say about representativeness and that matter will be kept under close scrutiny when we do our review later on.