The European Parliament is preparing a nonbinding resolution that proposes splitting Google Inc.'s search engine operations in Europe from the rest of its business as one option to rein in the Internet company's dominance in the search market.
European politicians have grown increasingly concerned about the command of the Internet industry by Google and other American companies, and have sought ways to curb their power. A public call for a break-up would be the most far-reaching action proposed, and a significant threat to Google's business.
The draft motion does not mention Google or any specific search engine, though Google is by far the dominant provider of such services in Europe, with an estimated 90 percent market share. Earlier on Friday, the Financial Times described a draft motion as calling for a break-up of Google.