This paper analyses the content of the White Paper 'National traffic and transport plans for the Netherlands 2001-2010' in relation to the European White Paper which consists of four parts: shifting the balance between modes of transport, eliminating bottlenecks, improving transport safety, and managing the globalisation of transport (particularly in relation to EU enlargement). Legislation relating to the White Paper is expected on railways, creation of the single European sky and a framework directive on pricing. Some EU Member States have shown some disapproval regarding ideas in the White Paper such as tax harmonisation, charging, dissociation of transport and economics and infrastructure funding across the EU. While Member States shared similar policy objectives, no real action is agreed. National policy making by European states is outlined with reference to Germany, the UK and the Netherlands. The Netherlands White Paper was rejected by its parliament for political reasons and will need to be revised. Some themes of EU and national interaction are discussed including the imbalance between transport modes, pricing, and road safety. It is concluded that complementary transport policy at the European and national level has yet to be achieved. For the covering abstract see ITRD E124693.
Samenvatting