If the new restrictions come into effect: ·               Wheat and potato prices will increase by at least 20%·               EU to become net importer of key crops·               The cost to be borne by European consumers

The ESBG strongly supports the initiatives taken last week, notably by the IASB last Friday, with a view to achieving a more flexible application of the fair value approach. This would not only remove some of the current pressure on banks but would also help to provide a more accurate image of the actual financial situation of many institutions worldwide.

BRUSSELS, October 8/PRNewswire/ --     In the light of the upcoming Energy Council meeting this Friday 10 October, the European Wind Energy Association (EWEA) has sent an open letter to French Energy Minister Borloo.

EWEA expresses its concern about a proposed 'review clause' in the Renewable Energy Directive, and underlines the importance of priority grid access for renewables. The letter also addresses some of the other key issues on the table, such as the internal electricity market, grid integration and EU competitiveness.

On 20 October 2008 the European Institute of Public Administration (EIPA) will officially launch the European Public Sector Award 2009 (EPSA 2009). This special event takes place at the 5th Quality Conference in Paris (FR), organised by the French Presidency for public administrations in the EU.

Helmut Müllers, the CESI General Secretary, and Kirsten Lühmann, the CESI FEMM Committee President, commenting on the EU Commissions proposal for a revised directive on maternity leave: