The amendments adopted are the result of a compromise between European Parliament, Council and Commission reached in negotiations during the second reading of the Codecision procedure. The resulting text is a satisfactory compromise for the Commission. Some amendments on setting maximum levels for pesticide residues (MRLs) reflect already existing working practice, and make these explicit in the legislation. Other amendments provide for the development and application of new methodology. The Commission is in favour of all amendments and made this clear during the negotiations. The amendments are in line with the original proposal and an improvement relative to the existing legislation.