Mr Cowen added that the two governments were "determined to press ahead with all aspects of the Agreement that are within their respective competence".
The Law Society of Scotland has noted that while the imposition of a minimum price of alcohol is a devolved matter within the legislative competence of the Scottish Parliament, compatibility with EU Duty Directives must be taken into account.
Buffett buys companies that are simple to understand, he says, and are within his circle of competence because he wants to have a good idea of what the future business is going to look like.
"I am determined to ensure that member states do not stand in the way of mergers falling within the Commission's exclusive competence, " EU Competition Commissioner Neelie Kroes said in a statement.