EU's Reding backs Google in online books row

The European Union's Commissioner for Information Society and Media Viviane Reding has thrown her weight behind Internet search group Google in the row over whether it should be allowed to publish millions of scanned books online. On Thursday she added her voice to the debate welcoming "private-sector initiatives" such as Google's. "Google Books is a commercial project developed by an important player," Commissioner Reding said. "It is good to see that new business models are evolving which could allow bringing more content to an increasing number of consumers." Reding's opinion is significant as the former journalist is optimistic she will keep her position as commissioner in charge of telecoms and media when the European Union's new cabinet of commissioners is chosen later this year.