This report summarises Parliamentary Questions (PQs) submitted to and answered by the European Commission in September 2025. The inquiries cover a wide range of public affairs topics, with significant focus on public health and safety, including vaccination policies, disease surveillance, and the regulation of consumer products. Other key themes include the pharmaceutical and medical device regulatory frameworks, food safety and agricultural standards, healthcare system funding and access, and environmental health. Institutional matters, particularly concerning transparency and the implementation of EU law, were also prominent.
In total, this report covers 43 PQs. Of these, 32 have received a response from the Commission, while 11 are still pending an answer.
Vaccination Policy & COVID-19 Legacy
❗ Commission Clarifies Liability for COVID-19 Vaccine Damage
In PQ E-002718/2025 (link), MEP Gerald Hauser (PfE) on 3 July 2025 sought clarification on the process for citizens to claim damages for adverse effects from COVID-19 vaccines. In a response on 5 September 2025, Commissioner Lahbib explained that compensation procedures are governed by the laws of Member States and that citizens can file claims in their national courts. While legal responsibility lies with manufacturers, the purchase agreements stipulate that Member States indemnify them for damages and legal costs if a claim is successful, except in cases of wilful misconduct or failure to comply with EU good manufacturing practices. The Commission does not track the number of successful claims.
❗ EU Strategy to Tackle Vaccine Hesitancy Outlined
In PQ E-002818/2025 (link), MEP Michalis Hadjipantela (PPE) on 10 July 2025 asked the Commission about its plans for a renewed EU strategy to increase vaccination coverage and counter vaccine hesitancy. Responding on 5 September 2025, Commissioner Várhelyi detailed ongoing efforts, including implementing Council Recommendations on vaccine-preventable diseases and cancers, funding projects through EU4Health, and running communication campaigns like #UnitedInProtection. He also noted that the Commission combats disinformation through the Digital Services Act and supports equitable vaccine access via joint procurement mechanisms.
❗ Commission Reassures on COVID-19 Vaccines and Fertility
In a response on 3 September 2025 to an unlisted question (E-002731/25, link), Commissioner Várhelyi addressed concerns about the impact of COVID-19 vaccines on fertility. He stated that while short-term variations in fertility trends were observed during the pandemic, they were attributed to behavioural changes, with rates returning to pre-pandemic levels. Várhelyi affirmed that long-term safety data remains “very reassuring” regarding fertility, based on large clinical trials and over three years of real-world data. The Commission and EMA continuously monitor vaccine safety through a robust pharmacovigilance system.
❗ Commission Declines to Disclose COVID-19 Vaccine Negotiator Names
In a response on 3 September 2025 to an unlisted question (E-002717/25, link), Commissioner Lahbib addressed the composition of the Joint Negotiation Team (JNT) for COVID-19 vaccines. She confirmed the JNT included experts from seven Member States alongside Commission officials, and the Vaccines Steering Board included representatives from all EU countries. However, the Commission stated it is not in a position to disclose the names of individual members, citing the need to protect their privacy under EU data protection legislation. Lahbib assured that the Steering Board was kept fully informed throughout the negotiation process and all Member States had the opportunity to comment on the agreements.
❓ MEP Questions EU Stance on COVID-19 Vaccines Following US Authorisation Change
In PQ E-003388/2025 (link), MEP Gerald Hauser (PfE) on 3 September 2025 questioned the Commission’s continued authorisation of COVID-19 vaccines in the EU, citing a recent US decision to rescind the emergency use authorisation. Hauser claims that the lack of long-term data relegates vaccinated individuals to the role of “experimental guinea pigs” and asks if the Commission will now rescind its authorisations, who is responsible for vaccine damage, and what its response is to the officially confirmed lack of substantial data. A response from the Commission is pending.
Disease Surveillance & Preparedness
❗ Commission Details EU Preparedness for Avian Influenza in Cattle
In a response on 4 September 2025 to an unlisted question (E-002453/25, link), Commissioner Várhelyi outlined the EU’s measures to manage the potential risk of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) spreading to cattle, following its detection in US dairy cows. The Commission has issued guidance on surveillance and control, and EU bodies like EFSA and ECDC are assessing the risks. Várhelyi highlighted the “One Health” approach, the joint procurement of 665,000 doses of a zoonotic influenza vaccine for human use, and framework contracts for over 110 million pandemic influenza vaccine doses if needed.
❗ Commission Defends Advertising Rules for Biocidal Products
In PQ E-002614/25 (link), MEPs Benoit Cassart and Olivier Chastel (Renew) on 28 June 2025 argued that the ban on advertising the characteristics of biocidal products prevents manufacturers of skin-applied repellents from informing vulnerable groups about protection against vector-borne diseases like dengue. In a response on 5 September 2025, Commissioner Várhelyi defended the rules, stating they aim to protect citizens by avoiding misleading claims and ensuring safe use. He noted the Commission is not aware of evidence that the rules negatively impact the availability of repellents and sees no need for an amendment at this stage, though an evaluation of the regulation is planned for late 2025.
❓ MEPs Seek Update on Diagnostic Tests for Lyme Disease
In PQ E-003360/2025 (link), MEPs Lynn Boylan and Kathleen Funchion (The Left) on 2 September 2025 referenced a 2018 European Parliament resolution on Lyme disease and the subsequent evolution of blood tests. They ask the Commission for its assessment of new and evolved tests and which tests it intends to use for counting Lyme disease cases across the EU. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Inquiry into EU Measures Against Spread of Tropical Diseases
In PQ E-003373/2025 (link), MEP Leire Pajín (S&D) on 3 September 2025 raised concerns about the spread of tropical diseases like dengue and chikungunya in Europe, accelerated by climate change. Pajín asks what epidemiological surveillance actions the Commission is taking, what preventive measures it is promoting to control vector mosquitoes, and how it is encouraging international cooperation with the countries where these diseases originate. A response from the Commission is pending.
❓ Concerns Raised Over Avian Influenza Spreading to US Cattle Herds
In PQ E-003446/2025 (link), MEP Daniel Buda (PPE) on 5 September 2025 expressed great concern over the detection of avian influenza A in the US dairy sector, highlighting the risk of mutation and transmission to humans. He asks what measures the Commission is taking to strengthen surveillance and biosecurity on European farms and whether it intends to develop further guidance for monitoring in the dairy sector, including systematic analysis of raw milk. A response from the Commission is pending.
Tobacco & Vaping
❓ Commission Questioned on Predatory Marketing of Illicit Vapes to Children
In PQ E-003366/2025 (link), MEPs Kim Van Sparrentak (Verts/ALE) and Mohammed Chahim (S&D) on 2 September 2025 highlighted reports of illegal vape advertisements on Snapchat targeting children and the severe medical harm caused by vaping. They ask if the Commission is investigating Snapchat for violating the Digital Services Act, whether it will consider EU-wide action to make vapes less attractive and dangerous (e.g., banning flavours), and if it is considering a ban on single-use disposable vapes. A response from the Commission is pending.
Women’s Health
❓ MEPs Call for EU Strategy on Menopause
In PQ E-003429/2025 (link), MEPs Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová (Renew) and Maria Walsh (PPE) on 4 September 2025 described menopause as an under-researched and insufficiently recognised health issue with significant implications for women’s private and professional lives. They ask what initiatives the Commission is undertaking to raise awareness and whether it is considering a dedicated EU menopause strategy to improve data collection, bridge policy gaps, and provide guidance to Member States. A response from the Commission is pending.
Regulatory Framework
❗ Commission Clarifies Stance on Paper vs. Electronic Medicine Leaflets
In PQ P-002901/25 (link), a group of MEPs led by Jaroslava Pokorná Jermanová (PfE) on 15 July 2025 raised concerns about a proposal to abolish paper package leaflets for medicinal products, questioning accessibility for all population groups and patient safety. In a response on 5 September 2025, Commissioner Várhelyi explained the pharmaceutical reform proposal aims to enhance patient safety with electronic alternatives that offer equal or superior information. He stressed that if Member States choose electronic-only leaflets, paper versions must remain available on demand, free of charge, ensuring no patient is left behind. The proposal is currently under discussion by co-legislators.
❗ Revision of Medical Devices Regulation Planned for End of 2025
In PQ E-002807/25 (link), MEP Jan-Peter Warnke (NI) on 9 July 2025 asked when a revision of the Medical Devices Regulation (MDR) would be provided, citing “devastating consequences” for patients, doctors, and manufacturers. Responding on 5 September 2025, Commissioner Várhelyi confirmed the Commission is conducting a targeted evaluation of the regulations, to be finalised in Q4 2025. Based on this, the Commission will propose legislation by the end of 2025 that aims to balance simplifying regulations with protecting patient safety and public health. He added that the Commission is well-informed of stakeholder positions through public consultations.
❗ Commission Reinforces Compassionate Use Provisions in Pharma Reform
In a response on 3 September 2025 to an unlisted question (E-002693/25, link), Commissioner Várhelyi clarified aspects of the Commission’s pharmaceutical reform proposal regarding compassionate use of new medicines. He stated the proposal reinforces current provisions to ensure a consistent approach across Member States and introduces procedural rules for data collection to evaluate the benefit-risk balance. However, it does not suggest changes to binding timeframes or introduce specific access obligations for compassionate use programmes, instead focusing on multiple measures to ensure timely and equitable general access to all medicines.
❓ MEPs Seek Cohesion Between Animal Testing Phase-Out and Pharma Legislation
In PQ E-003434/2025 (link), MEPs Sebastian Everding and Anja Hazekamp (The Left) on 5 September 2025 asked how the Commission will ensure consistency between the EU roadmap to phase out animal testing, the revised pharmaceutical legislation, and the European Research Area (ERA) action on non-animal methods. They inquire about concrete measures to support the uptake of non-animal methods and how outcomes from the roadmap and ERA action will be integrated into pharmaceutical regulatory frameworks. A response from the Commission is pending.
Specific Substances
❓ Commission Probed on “Health Tourism” for Puberty Blockers
In PQ E-003357/2025 (link), a group of MEPs led by Paolo Inselvini (ECR) on 2 September 2025 raised concerns about UK-based private clinics promoting “health tourism” for minors to obtain puberty-blocking medication in the EU, circumventing a UK ban. They ask if the Commission is aware of this practice, what action it will take to combat it, and how it will ensure strict monitoring of the distribution and administration of these medicines to protect children. A response from the Commission is pending.
Substances & Additives
❗ Commission Defends Safety Assessment of Aspartame
In PQ E-002897/25 (link), MEPs Jutta Paulus and Tilly Metz (Verts/ALE) on 15 July 2025 questioned the Commission’s reliance on a 2013 safety evaluation of aspartame, given the WHO IARC’s 2023 classification of the sweetener as “possibly carcinogenic.” In a response on 5 September 2025, Commissioner Várhelyi stated that the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) will update its safety assessment of aspartame as part of its re-evaluation of the salt of aspartame-acesulfame (E 962), expected by mid-2026. This will include a careful consideration of the IARC findings. Until then, the 2013 EFSA opinion remains valid, as IARC’s hazard assessments differ from EFSA’s risk assessments, which consider real-world exposure levels.
❗ Commission Clarifies Safety Re-evaluation of Food Additives
In a response on 4 September 2025 to an unlisted question (E-002863/25, link), Commissioner Várhelyi confirmed that all permitted food additives are thoroughly assessed for safety by EFSA and are kept under continuous observation. He noted that EFSA has a programme to re-evaluate all food additives authorised before 2009, taking into account any new scientific information. To date, EFSA has published 134 opinions covering 241 additives and aims to complete the re-evaluation of the remaining 74 additives within the next few years. The Commission will consider risk management measures based on the outcomes of these re-evaluations.
❗ Commission Defends Proposal on CMR Substances in Cosmetics
In PQ E-002887/25 (link), MEP César Luena (S&D) on 15 July 2025 raised concerns that a proposal to allow certain carcinogenic, mutagenic, or reprotoxic (CMR) substances in cosmetics would weaken consumer protection. Responding on 4 September 2025, Executive Vice-President Séjourné asserted that the proposal will not weaken protection, as CMR substances remain banned by default. A derogation is only possible under strict conditions, including a positive risk-based safety assessment by the independent Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) that considers real-world exposure and proves no risk via skin contact. This, he argued, maintains a high level of health protection while providing legal certainty.
❗ Commission Addresses Potential Ban of Sodium Fluoride in Cosmetics
In a response on 3 September 2025 to an unlisted question (E-002751/25, link), Executive Vice-President Séjourné addressed a proposal submitted by France to classify sodium fluoride as an endocrine disruptor and toxic for reproduction. He explained that if the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) confirms these classifications as scientifically valid, the Commission will decide on its inclusion in the CLP Regulation. This would lead to a ban on sodium fluoride in cosmetics unless a specific derogation is granted. Séjourné stated it is premature to discuss alternatives before the classification process is concluded, but affirmed the Commission is aware of fluoride’s role in preventing dental caries and would consider all risk/benefit aspects.
❓ Concerns Raised Over New Acetamiprid Residue Limits for Fruit Growers
In PQ E-003394/2025 (link), MEPs Anna Maria Cisint, Isabella Tovaglieri, and Raffaele Stancanelli (PfE) on 3 September 2025 raised concerns about the impact of Regulation (EU) 2025/158, which lowers the maximum residue limit for acetamiprid. They highlight the difficulties this poses for Italian and European fruit growers who rely on the substance to combat invasive pests and ask the Commission to investigate the impact of this reduction and involve Member States in identifying territorial priorities for plant protection strategies. A response from the Commission is pending.
Imports & Labelling
❗ Commission Confirms Labelling Rules for Foods Containing Insects
In a response on 4 September 2025 to an unlisted question (E-001783/25, link), Commissioner Várhelyi addressed labelling requirements for foods containing insects. He stated that due to insufficient evidence on primary sensitisation, Member States supported not imposing additional labelling requirements for this specific risk. However, all pre-packed foods must list all ingredients, including the scientific and common name of the insect. Furthermore, a statement in close proximity to the ingredients list must indicate that the ingredient may cause allergic reactions. The Commission considers this existing legal framework sufficient to ensure consumers are well-informed.
❓ MEP Seeks Action on Pesticide-Contaminated Rice Imports
In PQ E-003427/2025 (link), MEP Paolo Borchia (PfE) on 4 September 2025 highlighted an increase in imports of rice contaminated with pesticides beyond EU limits, as reported by the rapid alert system for food and feed (RASFF). Citing risks to public health and fair competition, he asks what measures the Commission will take to step up controls, whether frequent monitoring is planned for consignments from high-pesticide-use countries, and if sanctions are planned for contaminated imports. A response from the Commission is pending.
Funding & Investment
❗ Commission Details Use of Cohesion Funds for Italian Healthcare
In a response on 2 September 2025 to an unlisted question (E-002386/25, link), Executive Vice-President Fitto explained how EU cohesion funds support healthcare in Italy, focusing on access to essential services. The ERDF funds infrastructure like hospitals and emergency services, while the ESF+ supports service provision for disadvantaged populations. He noted that Italy’s national recovery and resilience plan (RRP) also addresses regional disparities and includes measures like establishing community health houses and rural pharmacies in remote areas. However, he reiterated that Member States are ultimately responsible for healthcare delivery.
❗ Commission Monitors Italy’s RRP Home Care Targets
In a response on 2 September 2025 to an unlisted question (E-002870/25, link), Commissioner Dombrovskis addressed the implementation of Italy’s recovery and resilience plan (RRP) measure for home care. He confirmed that the quantitative target for the number of patients in home care is due in the ninth payment request, scheduled for late 2025, at which point the Commission will verify the reported numbers. He added that Italy’s RRP provided information on its ability to manage the target of having 10% of the old-age population in home care, with plans for training new nurses and securing financial resources from additional funding and efficiency savings.
❗ Commission Affirms Demographic Challenges Considered in EU Fiscal Framework
In PQ E-002128/25 (link), a large group of MEPs led by Paolo Inselvini (ECR) on 28 May 2025 asked if the Commission would recognise Member States’ demographic expenses as investment within the Stability and Growth Pact. In a response on 5 September 2025, Commissioner Dombrovskis confirmed that the EU fiscal framework recognises demographic challenges. Member States’ medium-term plans should reflect costs related to ageing, and reforms and investments that address these impacts can justify a more gradual fiscal consolidation. He also noted that tackling demographic change is a shared commitment across the Commission, steered by the Commissioner for the Mediterranean.
❓ MEP Warns of Funding Loss for Greek Early Childhood Intervention Project
In PQ E-003393/2025 (link), MEP Konstantinos Arvanitis (The Left) on 3 September 2025 warned that Greece’s Early Childhood Intervention project, funded by the RRF, is at risk of losing its funding due to a “complete stagnation” in its progress. With a deadline in the second half of 2025, he claims fundamental shortcomings remain, such as a lack of training, no register of providers, and no recruitment. He asks if the Commission is aware of the situation and what steps it has taken to prevent the project from being scrapped. A response from the Commission is pending.
Procurement & Policy
❗ Commission to Support Holistic Sustainability in Healthcare Procurement
In PQ E-002931/25 (link), MEP Tomislav Sokol (PPE) on 16 July 2025 asked how the Commission will ensure the revised Public Procurement Directive supports a holistic approach to sustainability in healthcare, including human and economic impacts. Responding on 4 September 2025, Executive Vice-President Séjourné acknowledged the critical nature of the healthcare sector and stated the revision aims to mainstream sustainability, resilience, and social criteria. The Commission is engaging with health stakeholders and will assess various policy options, including technical guidance and capacity-building, while ensuring high standards of innovation, safety, and patient outcomes are maintained.
Social Care
❗ Commission Details Support for Informal Carers
In PQ E-002978/25 (link), a group of MEPs led by Luke Ming Flanagan (The Left) on 17 July 2025 followed up on a previous question about a future EU Care Deal, asking for details on a planned “toolkit for supporting informal carers.” In a response on 4 September 2025, Executive Vice-President Mînzatu explained the toolkit will be an online training course on self-care and care competences, developed by the WHO in collaboration with Eurocarers and with Commission funding. It is set to be released in autumn 2025. She also mentioned other relevant initiatives, including the Quality Jobs Roadmap and the new Action Plan to implement the European Pillar of Social Rights.
❗ Commission Addresses Cyanobacteria Contamination in Galician Reservoir
In PQ E-002600/25 (link), MEP Ana Miranda Paz (Verts/ALE) on 27 June 2025 questioned the Commission about its response to the Galician government’s failure to address cyanobacteria contamination in the As Conchas reservoir, linked to pig farms and potential public health risks. In a response on 2 September 2025, Commissioner Roswall stated that the Commission is following the situation, noting the reservoir’s “worse than good” status. The Commission will seek additional information to ensure compliance with the Drinking Water Directive, has consulted Spanish authorities on planned actions, and will continue to support Spain in implementing the Nitrates Directive.
❗ Commission Outlines Strategy for Heatwave Preparedness
In PQ E-002654/25 (link), MEPs Leire Pajín and Nicolás González Casares (S&D) on 1 July 2025 asked about measures to combat the adverse effects of heatwaves in Southern Europe. Responding on 5 September 2025, Commissioner Hoekstra pointed to the Commission’s proposal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 90% by 2040 as the primary tool to prevent the worst warming scenarios. He also mentioned funding for WHO guidance on heat-health, the all-hazard Preparedness Union Strategy, and a forthcoming climate resilience framework. The next MFF will have a 35% green target, unlocking over €700 billion for climate action.
❗ Commission Confirms Ambitious Climate Targets in Next EU Budget
In a response on 2 September 2025 to an unlisted question (E-002440/25, link), Commissioner Hoekstra detailed the Commission’s proposal for the 2028-2034 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF). He highlighted an ambitious target of dedicating 35% of the overall budget to climate and environment objectives, with an enhanced system to monitor spending on climate adaptation and resilience. The proposal also increases funding for the Union Civil Protection Mechanism to €10.7 billion and incorporates the EU Solidarity Fund into a new facility, with an overall amount of €20.1 billion for solidarity over the period.
Transparency & Ethics
❗ Commission Responds to Allegations of Bias in Smart Kid Belt Case
In PQ E-002742/25 (link), MEP Michał Dworczyk (ECR) on 4 July 2025 raised doubts about the Commission’s impartiality in the Smart Kid Belt case, citing a CJEU judgment and alleging acquiescence to corporate lobbying. In a response on 4 September 2025, Executive Vice-President Séjourné stated that all facts have been duly assessed and that the correspondence in question did not constitute a formal position of the institution or result in any formal decision impairing the operator’s interest. He concluded there are no grounds for an investigation into abuse of office or conflict of interest. Following the court’s judgment, the Commission adopted a new decision granting wide partial access to the requested correspondence.
❗ Commission States No Involvement in German Mask Procurement Audit
In a response on 2 September 2025 to an unlisted question (P-002657/25, link), Commissioner Lahbib addressed the procurement of masks in Germany during the COVID-19 pandemic. She recalled that the procurement, auditing, and follow-up of national purchases of medical countermeasures are primarily the responsibility of Member States. She confirmed that German authorities conducted their own audit concerning these procurements and stated that the Commission is not aware of any contacts with German authorities in relation to this national audit and has had no such contacts as part of that process.
Legal & Data Protection
❗ Commission Confirms GDPR Applies to Newborns’ Genetic Data
In a response on 3 September 2025 to an unlisted question (E-002092/25, link), Commissioner McGrath confirmed that the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) applies to the processing of genetic material of newborns. He specified that as genetic data falls within special categories of personal data, its processing must meet the stricter conditions of Article 9(2) GDPR. The Commission stated it has no knowledge of the specific agreement mentioned in the question and that monitoring and enforcement of the GDPR falls to national data protection authorities, in this case, the Greek DPA. The Commission does not plan to establish a common European framework for bioethics and genetic data of minors, as this remains a national competence.
❗ Greece Faces Infringement for Not Transposing VAT Directives
In PQ E-002939/25 (link), a group of MEPs from The Left on 16 July 2025 questioned the Commission about the Greek Government’s failure to transpose two directives allowing for VAT reductions on essential goods and simplified rules for small businesses. In a response on 4 September 2025, Commissioner Hoekstra confirmed that because Greece had not transposed the directives by the 31 December 2024 deadline, the Commission opened infringement procedures. As Greece did not reply to the letters of formal notice, the Commission sent reasoned opinions on 17 July 2025. Greece now has two months to respond, after which the Commission may refer the cases to the Court of Justice.
❗ Commission Monitors Victims’ Rights Directive in Spain
In a response on 3 September 2025 to an unlisted question (E-002203/25, link), Commissioner McGrath addressed the implementation of the Victims’ Rights Directive. He confirmed that the administration of justice is a national competence but that the Commission has assessed the transposition of the directive in all Member States. He stated that Spanish law transposes all essential elements of the directive’s binding provisions. The Commission continues to monitor its correct enforcement and has proposed a revision to further strengthen victims’ rights, including free psychological support for the most vulnerable victims.
General Principles & Miscellaneous
❗ Commission Defends Coordinated EU Response in Crises
In a response on 3 September 2025 to an unlisted question (E-002030/25, link), President von der Leyen defended the principle of a coordinated EU-level response during crises. She argued that experience has shown such a response is necessary to achieve objectives and that uncoordinated national actions risk disrupting the internal market and creating unequal access to products and services, as seen during the COVID-19 crisis. She stated that an intervention at the Union level is the best means to ensure an efficient and fair response, often taking over from national actions without by-passing national decision-making.
❗ Commission Confirms No EU Funds Used for Killing Stray Animals in Romania
In a response on 4 September 2025 to an unlisted question (E-002593/25, link), Commissioner Várhelyi addressed the management of stray animal populations in Romania. He confirmed that the management of stray dogs and cats is the responsibility of Member States and there is no specific EU legislation governing their strategies. After checking with relevant authorities, the Commission found no indication that Cohesion Policy funds, Common Agricultural Policy funds, or the Romanian Recovery and Resilience Plan have been used for the killing of stray animals. He also noted that while the EU can co-finance rabies eradication programmes, vaccination is the primary measure, and killing stray animals is not an eligible measure for such funding.
❗ Commission Highlights Initiatives to Attract International Talent
In PQ E-002642/25 (link), MEP Joachim Streit (Renew) on 30 June 2025 asked about EU strategies to attract international professionals, suggesting a model similar to the US Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. In a response on 5 September 2025, Commissioner Brunner noted that under existing directives, researchers and students can already stay for at least nine months after completing their studies to seek employment. He highlighted initiatives like the EU Talent Pool job matching platform, the €500 million ‘Choose Europe for Science’ package, and Erasmus+ funded university alliances as key assets for attracting global talent.