The supplementary fund was initially proposed by the European Commission as an EU measure. Member states preferred, however, to pursue the matter in an international context. Adoption of the protocol, with considerable support from EU states, followed. EU member states have been urged to introduce legislation to give effect to the protocol at the earliest opportunity and before the end of the year, if possible. The provision of adequate compensation for victims of oil pollution from tankers must be viewed as part of a wider framework involving the prevention of pollution and the response to incidents.