Tuesday February 15th, 2000

European internal market commissioner Frits Bolkestein said on Tuesday the European Union executive would rule on the legality of French alcohol and tobacco advertising restrictions "within weeks."

"The Commission has to take a decision whether it considers the matter closed or whether it should refer the matter to the (European) Court of Justice," Bolkestein told the European Parliament in answer to a question.

The French restrictions, known as the Loi Evin after a former health minister, ban tobacco and alcohol advertising in the media and certain sporting events, such as the country's Formula One Grand Prix.

The EU has questioned the legality of the move in the EU's internal market.