13. Openingthe internalmarketon the construction sector

SYNOPSIS. The European Commission, prompted by the wide discrepancies in technology, law and standards which stil l dominate the construction industry in Community countries, creating numerous impediments to the exchange and free movement of personnel, goods and services and also leading to very limited consumer protection, has drawn up a vast harmonisation programme aiming to open up the Single Market within the industry.

1. The history of European construction, its successes and crises, are mirrored in the longstanding conflict between the desire for economic and political integration within the Community and the concern of its member states to preserve their national sovereignty.