ABSTRACT
At a recent UN forum, a leading American politician observed that negotiations with European governments were made more difficult because each nation spoke with a different voice. In frustration, the US delegate allegedly commented, “What we need is one telephone number for Europe”. This viewpoint highlights some of the divisions that remain between the 15 member states of the European Union (EU). Five years after deregulation of the single internal market, many differences in political and economic strategies prevail, and individual countries continue to be characterised by distinct markets, consumers and cultural diversity. Historically, Europe has proved to be a rich source of technological innovation, which has been highly dependent upon the catalysts of research, design and development. The European Commission is now well established as a valid political force and is set to play a dominant role in regulatory matters.
