The single market in the European Union is a major and growing source of trade in goods.
However, the single market for services in the EU has been declining, largely as a result of regulations in each member state.
It was this that prompted the development of the services directive, by which European Union officials hope to reduce the regulatory burden and allow more companies of all sizes to expand their business across national boundaries.
The British Chambers of Commerce, the Institute of Directors and the Federation Of Small Businesses have been working together to encourage Euro-MPs of all political persuasions to support the new initiative.
"A significant number of MEPs have been working together to try to water down the directive," said Christopher Harvey, who is the head of policy and representation at the Chamber of Commerce Herefordshire and Worcestershire.
"While the Chambers and their allies regret this, it will hopefully allow for a start to the expansion of the market in services and boost economic growth across the whole of the EU."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article