2. The notifier may indicate the information in the notifications submitted under this Directive, the disclosure of which might harm his competitive position, that should be treated as confidential. Verifiable justification must be given in such cases.

3. The competent authority shall decide, after consultation with the notifier, which information will be kept confidential and shall inform the notifier of its decision.

4. In no case may the following information, when submitted according to Articles 8, 9 or 10, be kept confidential:

- description of the genetically modified micro-organisms, name and address of the notifier, purpose of the contained use, and location of use;

- methods and plans for monitoring of the genetically modified micro-organisms and for emergency response;

- the evaluation of foreseeable effects, in particular any pathogenic and/or ecologically disruptive effects.

5. If, for whatever reasons, the notifier withdraws the notification, the competent authority must respect the confidentiality of the information supplied.