Answer given by Ms Vălean on behalf of the European Commission

The Commission considers that unilateral and uncoordinated measures can potentially severely affect the free movement of goods. The recent decision taken by Germany that the Honourable Member refers to indeed triggered consequential measures by Austria and Italy for Tyrol. Such measures jeopardise the effectiveness of the Green Lanes system, and cause traffic disruptions, unpredictability health risk for drivers’ queueing for a test, and other inconveniences as well as economic damage.

To mitigate the impact of these measures, the Commission closely monitors the situation and works with Member State in the network of national transport contact points. The Commission has repeatedly urged Member States to keep traffic at border crossing fluid, in order to protect essential workers and ensure that supply chains remain intact.

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) provides regular analysis, on which Member States can base their measures. The Commission considers that coordinated and proportionate measures would serve the free movement of goods and transport workers best.

The Council has unanimously adopted recommendations on COVID-19 related issues of free movement and travel. The Commission, as guardian of the Treaty, may take the necessary measures — including the possibility to launch infringement procedures — in case it finds national measures non-compliant with EC law.