The complainant, an environmental non-governmental organisation, raised concerns with a guidance document issued by the European Commission to Member State authorities on comparative assessment in the context of the substitution of hazardous substances in pesticides. In particular, the complainant is concerned that the guidance refers to a standard for comparative assessment, which was developed by the European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization. The complainant contends that the standard is at odds with the provisions of the EU's Plant Protection Products Regulation. The complainant also raised concerns about the role of industry groups in the organisation.

The Ombudsman opened an inquiry and asked the Commission to reply to a set of questions.