Consolidation in the skiing equipment industry cannot be allowed to lead to higher prices, lower quality or less innovative products.

Even though effective competition is the best tool to strengthen innovation and competitiveness in Europe, state aid can also play a very useful supporting role.

The E.U.-U.S. Open Aviation Area agreement therefore envisages the establishment of a broadly similar cooperation framework between the Commission and the Department of Transportation.

I am determined to use competition law to protect European industry and consumers.

Consolidation in the skiing equipment industry cannot be allowed to lead to higher prices, lower quality or less innovative products.

Highly complementary airline alliances and mergers can bring important benefits to passengers by connecting networks, offering new services and generating efficiencies across the aviation value chain. However, this has to take place within a competitive environment. It is vital that the economic benefits of an airline alliance or merger are passed on to passengers.

I know a smart business decision when I see one - choosing open standards is | a very smart business decision indeed.