France - investigation into state aid for France Telecom

State aid: Commission launches in-depth investigation into financing of retirement pensions of state employees working for France Télécom

The European Commission has decided under the state aid rules of the EC Treaty to launch an in-depth investigation into the reform of the arrangements for financing the retirement pensions of state employees working for France Télécom which were introduced in 1997 at the time of the liberalisation of the telecommunications sector. It will look in particular into whether the reduction in the charges borne by France Télécom following the reform constitutes state aid that is compatible with EC Treaty rules. The in-depth investigation will give third parties the opportunity to comment on the measure. The opening of an investigation in no way prejudges its outcome.

Competition Commissioner Neelie Kroessaid "Whilst we welcome structural reforms designed to assist incumbent monopolists in adapting to a liberalised market we must ensure that these reforms do not distort competition between operators to an extent contrary to the common interest."