This report covers Parliamentary Questions (PQs) and Commission Answers published between Monday, 20 October 2025 and Sunday, 26 October 2025. During this period, 17 new PQs were published and 14 Commission Answers became available. Key themes this week included Public Health & Prevention, Medicines & Regulation, and Environment-Health Links.
❗Impact of stray currents and pulse-width modulation (PWM)
In a response to Ton Diepeveen (PfE) published on 22 October 2025, Executive Vice-President Séjourné stated that the Low Voltage Directive (2014/35/EU) already sets safety objectives that cover risks associated with stray currents from PWM techniques. The Commission has not had any particular issues on this matter brought to its attention by Member State market surveillance authorities but is open to receiving more detailed information. The response is linked to document P-003727/25.
❗Regulation of Lyme disease blood tests
In a response published on 20 October 2025, Commissioner Várhelyi clarified that under Regulation (EU) 2017/746, manufacturers of in vitro diagnostic medical devices like Lyme disease tests must obtain certification from a notified body before placing them on the EU market. The response, linked to document E-003360/25, also noted that the EU has invested approximately EUR 15 million through research frameworks to improve diagnostic accuracy for Lyme disease.
❗Classification of ethanol in biocidal products
Commissioner Várhelyi, in a response published on 20 October 2025, explained that the ongoing discussion on ethanol’s potential classification is part of its evaluation for use in biocidal products under Regulation (EU) No 528/2012. A decision from the Commission is expected by the end of 2025. The response, linked to document E-002684/25, notes that ethanol may still be approved for use in biocidal products, regardless of its hazard classification, if it is deemed safe for human and environmental health.
❗Prohibition of TPO in cosmetic products
Executive Vice-President Séjourné confirmed on 23 October 2025 that the prohibition of trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO) in cosmetics is a direct legal consequence of its classification as a category 1B reprotoxicant under the CLP Regulation. As detailed in the answer to question E-003460/25, the substance is automatically banned from use in cosmetics from 1 September 2025, as no request for a derogation was made. Companies have had approximately 20 months to adapt their formulations and supply chains.
❓Strengthening EU action to prevent silicosis
A question (E-004016/2025) submitted on 13 October 2025 by Leire Pajín (S&D) and other MEPs asks the Commission what measures it is taking to improve the prevention, monitoring, and early detection of silicosis. The MEPs also inquire about plans to strengthen occupational health and safety regulations with more stringent exposure limits for crystalline silica and what EU funding mechanisms are available for affected workers. A response from the Commission is pending.
❗Youth mental health and social media
In a response published on 24 October 2025, Commissioner Várhelyi outlined several EU initiatives addressing youth mental health, including the ‘Healthier Together’ initiative and the Communication on a comprehensive approach to mental health. The answer to question E-003198/25 highlights that over EUR 260 million has been invested in youth mental health research. It also notes that the Digital Services Act sets strict rules to protect minors online, with an upcoming EU action plan against cyberbullying set to focus on minors and vulnerable youth.
❗Illegal advertising on Snapchat and e-cigarette regulation
Responding to a question on illegal advertisements of drugs, alcohol, and nicotine products to minors on Snapchat, Executive Vice-President Virkkunen stated on 20 October 2025 that Snapchat, as a designated very large online platform under the Digital Services Act, is required to mitigate systemic risks. The answer to E-003366/25 notes that Dutch authorities are investigating Snapchat’s compliance. The Commission is also evaluating the Tobacco Products and Tobacco Advertising Directives, while the WEEE and Batteries Regulations address the collection and design of e-cigarettes.
❗Health effects of high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS)
Commissioner Várhelyi stated on 20 October 2025 that the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has not conducted a specific risk assessment on HFCS alone but has assessed dietary sugars, including HFCS, confirming links to health problems. In the answer to question E-003262/25, it was noted that EFSA found evidence of a causal relationship between fructose intake and some chronic metabolic diseases, concluding that the intake of added and free sugars should be as low as possible.
❗Hygiene standards in public toilets
In a response published on 20 October 2025, Executive Vice-President Séjourné acknowledged the importance of high hygiene standards in public toilets but stated that the Commission does not plan to implement a ‘hygiene score’ or specific European Standards for them. The answer to question E-003306/25 notes that while no general guidance is available, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) offers resources on hand-hygiene, primarily for healthcare settings.
❓Health effects of disposable e-cigarettes from China
Tobiasz Bocheński (ECR) submitted a question (E-004021/2025) on 14 October 2025 regarding the health effects of disposable e-cigarettes imported from China, which are reportedly banned in their country of origin. The question asks if the Commission has analysed these products, what EU safety standards apply, and whether an EU-wide ban or restrictions are being considered. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓Misinformation on ‘post-abortion syndrome’ in Madrid
A question (E-003938/2025) from Lina Gálvez (S&D) and other MEPs, submitted on 8 October 2025, asks for the Commission’s view on an initiative by Madrid City Council requiring women to be informed about the scientifically discredited ‘post-abortion syndrome’. The MEPs inquire what the Commission can do about such unscientific initiatives that undermine women’s rights. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓European network of AI-powered screening centres
In a question (E-004022/2025) submitted on 14 October 2025, Olivier Chastel (Renew) asks the Commission for details on the recently announced European network of AI-powered advanced screening centres. The query seeks information on the network’s legal status, funding, and integration with existing programmes, as well as how it will ensure compliance with the AI Act and GDPR for secure health data sharing. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓Delays in Recovery and Resilience Fund projects in Greece
Sakis Arnaoutoglou (S&D) submitted a question (E-004045/2025) on 15 October 2025 concerning delays in Greece’s absorption of Recovery and Resilience Fund (RRF) resources. The MEP asks which strategic projects, including hospital renovations, are at risk of not being completed on time and what actions the Commission has taken to avoid the loss of funding. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓High indirect taxation on medicines and basic goods in Greece
A question (E-003476/2025) from Emmanouil Fragkos (ECR) on 8 September 2025 asks the Commission how it will ensure Greece’s compliance with EU directives allowing for reduced or zero VAT on basic goods, including food and medicines. The query highlights the impact of non-implementation on citizens facing a high cost of living. A response from the Commission is pending.
Preparedness for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI)
In a response published on 20 October 2025, Commissioner Várhelyi confirmed that the Commission issued guidance in April 2025 on measures for different HPAI scenarios. The answer to question E-003446/25 also notes that the European Food Safety Authority provided technical assistance on the risk from the HPAI virus circulating in the United States, with further advice expected by November 2025.
Eradication of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC)
Commissioner Várhelyi, in an answer published on 20 October 2025, stated that the EU has a robust legal framework aimed at eradicating MTBC in animals to achieve disease-free status across the Union. The response to question E-003258/25 notes that while Germany has achieved MTBC-free status, there have been a few reoccurrences since 2020. The Commission is currently evaluating the Animal Health Law, but no specific issues related to MTBC have been identified for review.
Use of drones for aerial spraying of pesticides
In a response published on 20 October 2025, Commissioner Várhelyi clarified that the Sustainable Use of pesticides Directive (SUD) allows Member States to issue approvals for aerial spraying of plant protection products by drones under specific conditions. The answer to question E-003151/25 indicates that the Commission will discuss with Member States how to simplify the administration of these derogations.
EU-US trade tariffs on pharmaceuticals and other goods
In an answer published on 20 October 2025, Commissioner Šefčovič outlined a political agreement between the EU and the US on tariffs and trade. The response to question E-003442/25 states that certain strategic sectors, such as generic pharmaceuticals, have been excluded from a new 15% tariff regime. The Commission does not foresee setting up compensatory measures but will monitor the implementation of the deal.
❓Impact of EU sanctions on public health in third countries
Marc Botenga (The Left) submitted a follow-up question (E-004011/2025) on 13 October 2025 regarding the impact of EU sanctions on public health. The question asks if Commission assessments confirm an adverse impact on access to healthcare and medicines in sanctioned countries and how often such impacts are assessed. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓Air quality and public health in Ioannina, Greece
Ignazio Roberto Marino (Verts/ALE) asked the Commission on 13 October 2025 about high levels of air pollution in Ioannina, Greece. The question (E-003999/2025) queries the Commission’s responsibility in financing projects through the recovery fund that could exacerbate pollution and whether it will support local decisions to relocate industrial units. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓EU-Mercosur free trade agreement and the tobacco sector
In a question (E-004081/2025) dated 16 October 2025, Anna Bryłka (PfE) asks the Commission about the potential impact of the EU-Mercosur free trade agreement on the European tobacco sector. The query focuses on potential safeguard clauses, the enforcement of labour and environmental standards, and possible compensation mechanisms for European tobacco growers. A response from the Commission is pending.
All Parliamentary Questions and Commission Answers are accessible via Policy-Insider.AI.
