EUROPEAN COMMISSION: In the 20 October issue of ABTN we commented on an EU compensation package for users of air transport within its boundaries. However it seems that press releases from both the Commission and the Parliament have been misleading, in that they imply or say that the Proposal has been approved. It has, but only by the Parliament so far (and Commission, but that doesn't count). The Council still has to approve before the Proposal can become law. Germany has retained its waiting reservation at the Energy Council meeting on 22 December. This means that the Proposal will have to go to the Council meeting later this month. If Germany wishes to oppose or abstain, then the Proposal will fall (together with UK, Ireland and Portugal creating a blocking minority). If they lift their waiting reservation, then the Proposal will go forward and become law in early 2005.