Proposed European Private Company Statute

On 25th June 2008 The European Commission presented a proposal for a Statute on a European Private Company ('SPE'). This new company form will enable small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to do business throughout the EU, with the aim of cutting costs and encouraging growth in this area.

BIS published a consultation on the proposal in October 2008, responses to the the consultation were broadly supportive. The proposal consultation (PDF 562KB) and government response (PDF 140KB).

Discussion with member states took place throughout 2008/2009. However, agreement could not be achieved at the December 2009 Competitiveness Council. There are no further meetings scheduled for 2010.

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