Yorkshire MEP welcomes new debate on Europe's future
Labour MEP Richard Corbett has welcomed a decision by the European Parliament to widen the debate on the future of the European Union.
In the teeth of opposition from UKIP and Conservative MEPs, Labour voted through a controversial report calling for more public engagement and debate on the reform of the European Union and how to deal with the draft European constitution.
The decision calls for a number of conferences and meetings to be held as a way of advancing the debate on the future of the EU. These would be known as Parliamentary Forums and Citizens' Forums.
Richard Corbett, who represents Yorkshire and the Humber, is also spokesman for the Labour party and the Europe-wide Socialist Group on EU constitutional affairs.
After the vote, Richard said:
"Parliament would prefer to work from the current text of the constitution, but we recognise that that would only be possible if measures were taken to reassure and convince public opinion.
"Where we go next has yet to be decided. The conclusion cannot be drawn now.
"But one thing is certain: the status quo - that is, the current Treaties that govern the EU - are not enough for Europe to function effectively or democratically. Europe needs reform and this issue will not go away, despite the attempts by UKIP and the Tories to brush it under the carpet."
Under the proposed schedule, a number of conferences between national parliaments and the European Parliament would be held in Spring this year. The first forum is scheduled for 9 May 2006. These events would also provide an opportunity to hear reports from the French and Dutch parliaments about their suggestions for a way forward after those countries voted 'no' to the European constitution in 2005.
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