"The protection of intellectual property is vital for the EU's exporting industry which depends on innovation. We therefore welcome the aim of ACTA, which enables Europe to fight against counterfeit products", said Joseph Daul MEP, Chairman of the EPP Group in the European Parliament, commenting on the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement.

"The EPP Group in the European Parliament is fighting for a free Internet, the importance of which has just been demonstrated by events in the Arab world."

"The EPP Group in the European Parliament wants to defend a free Internet while intensifying the fight against counterfeit products, which are costing Europe thousands of jobs."

"The ratification procedure of ACTA in the European Parliament has only just started. We will examine ACTA carefully, taking into consideration all concerns over possible restrictions for the Internet. We now need a debate based on facts, not fiction", concluded the Chairman of the biggest and most influential Group in the European Parliament.

For further information:
Joseph DAUL MEP, Chairman of the EPP Group, Tel: +33-3-88175525
Antoine Ripoll, Chairman's Spokesman, Tel: +32-475-856290
Delia Vlase, Chairman's Deputy Spokeswoman, Tel: +32-476-331038

Notes to Editors:
The EPP Group is by far the largest political group in the European Parliament with 271 Members.