Article 27
1. For a transitional period not exceeding 10 years from 1 January 2003, Member States may use, for the purpose of approving basic material for the production of tested reproductive material - not previously covered by Directive 66/404/EEC - the results of comparative tests which do not satisfy the requirements laid down in Annex V. Such tests shall have begun before 1 January 2003, and must have shown that the reproductive material derived from the basic material is superior. 2. For a transitional period not exceeding 10 years from 1 January 2003, Member States may use, for the purpose of approving basic material for the production of tested reproductive material of all species and artificial hybrids covered by this Directive, the results of genetic evaluation tests which do not satisfy the requirements laid down in Annex V. Such tests shall have begun before 1 January 2003, and must have shown that the reproductive material derived from the basic material is superior. 3. In the case of new species and artificial hybrids which may be added to Annex I at a later date, the transitional period referred to in paragraphs 1 and 2 shall be fixed in accordance with the procedure referred to in Article 26(2). 4. Member States may, in accordance with the procedure referred to in Article 26(2), be authorised to use the results of comparative tests and genetic evaluation tests after expiry of the transitional period.