French MPs have called on the European institutions to rework the Trade Secrets bill, which they say hampers the freedom of information and puts journalists’ sources at risk. The Trade Secrets Directive, first proposed by the European Commission in 2013, aims to provide a harmonised framework for the protection of trade secrets in Europe. Currently under review by the European Parliament, the bill’s opponents claim that it undermines freedom of information laws by allowing businesses to prosecute journalists or whistle-blowers who reveal confidential information. French MPs voiced their opposition to the proposed directive in a vote on Tuesday (9 June).
http://www.euractiv.com/sections/infosociety/protect-journalists-trade-secrets-directive-french-mps-say-315285
PROPOSITION DE RÉSOLUTION EUROPÉENNE sur la proposition de directive relative au secret d’affaires