Common plug policy

Eighteen European countries decided yesterday to try to design a common plug and socket to replace more than 20 types of connectors: a rewiring job that may take 30 years and cost more than dollars 1bn, Reuter reports from Brussels.

Envoys from 18 states - the EC and six Efta countries - voted to ask their experts to design the 'Europlug' by early next year. If approved, it will become the voluntary standard in all 18 countries.