ECR Vice-Chairmen speak at Heritage Foundation
8th February 2012 - Three of the ECR group's four Vice-Chairmen spoke at a public event organised by the USA's Heritage Foundation today on the 'State of the European Union'.
EU Commission massages its figures on Financial Transaction Tax
Brussels, 6th February 2012 - The European Commission's decision to rewrite its own damning impact assessment on proposals for a Financial Transaction Tax - so that it is more favourable towards the proposal - is a clear indication it is putting its political agenda above jobs and growth, Dr Kay Swinburne MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group economics spokesman, warned today.
Szymański - European Commission published a new document about shale gas
Brussels, 3rd February 2012 - "What's most important is the fact that this legal analysis by the EU Commissioner for Environment does not call for any legal changes. It shows a rather tough interpretation of Union law, which may be quite difficult to be implemented in many places in Poland" - says Konrad Szymański, European Conservatives and Reformists' shadow on shale gas in the industry and energy committee, after reading the analysis.
Callanan - the best answer to the crisis - get out of the way
Brussels, 1st February 2012 - Speaking in the European Parliament this afternoon on the outcome of Monday's EU summit, Martin Callanan MEP, Chairman of the European Conservatives and Reformists group, said that the best way to create jobs in the EU is for Eurocrats and MEPs to get out of the way and allow employers and businesses to grow.
EU trade waiver for Pakistan finally reaching end straight
Brussels, 1st Feb 2012 - The EU's trade waiver for Pakistan - initially proposed to assist Pakistan following the devastating 2010 floods - is finally near realisation after all opponents dropped their opposition at the WTO today. Robert Sturdy MEP, vice-president of the European Parliament's trade committee, has been a strong advocate of the waiver proposal and has called for the EU to implement the waiver as soon as possible after next month's formal approval by the WTO ministers.
Czech ECR MEPs: Prime Minister Necas made the right choice
Brussels, 31 January 2011 - Civic democrats in the European Parliament strongly support the position of Prime Minister Peter Necas towards the pact on fiscal union. It is such a significant shift in EU political integration that it must be decided and approved by citizens, preferably together with the decision to enter or not enter the eurozone.
Discussions on the Standardisation Package Have Started Going in Circles
Brussels, 25 January 2012 - The Committee on Internal Market and Consumer Protection of the European Parliament today discussed the draft report on the revision of the system of European standardisation, submitted by Italian MEP Lara Comi.
Malcolm Harbour re-elected internal market committee chairman
Brussels, 24th January 2012 - UK Conservative MEP Malcolm Harbour has been re-elected as chairman of the European Parliament's internal market and consumer protection committee for the remainder of the parliamentary term (until 2014).
Cameron's Davos agenda of competitiveness and opening trade is real answer to EU's crisis
Brussels, 26th January 2012 - David Cameron's agenda for growth - set out in his Davos speech today - is the only long-term answer to the EU's competitive crisis, which is just as serious and pressing as the Sovereign Debt crisis, the European Conservatives and Reformists group in the European Parliament, said today.
New Data rules must not harm businesses, the economy or public safety
Brussels, 25th January 2012 - A senior ECR MEP today urged caution over EU plans to introduce a new raft of rules on data protection.
ECR group opposes European Parliament calls for gender-neutral succession laws
Brussels, 25 January 2012 - Men are naturally more corrupt than women and the EU should have control over who succeeds to the British throne. These were just two of the suggestions made by the European Parliament’s Women’s Rights and Gender Equality Committee when debating draft proposals on women in political decision making.
Socialismo o muerte
Prague, 21 January 2012 - Socialismo o muerte (socialism or death) is a dangerous slogan of the criminal communist ideology, used for over forty years by the communist gerontocracy ruling Cuba. That is how Edvard Kožušník, Czech Member of the European Parliament, sees the fate of Cuban dissident Wilmar Villar Mendoza who died this Thursday.
Tannock - EU's concerted action on Iran addresses a major threat
23rd January, Brussels - EU sanctions announced today against Iran were welcomed by Charles Tannock MEP, ECR foreign affairs spokesman in the European Parliament.
EU Commissioner's City of London speech fails to understand global nature of finance
Brussels, 23rd January 2012 - Speaking at a City of London event at the Guildhall today, EU internal market commissioner Michel Barnier called on the City to play 'the European game' in a wide-ranging speech on the commission's agenda for financial services.
Oldrich Vlasak elected as Vice-President of the European Parliament
Strasbourg, 18th January 2012 - Oldrich Vlasak, European Conservatives and Reformists group member from the Czech Civic Democratic party (ODS) has been elected as one of the Vice-Presidents of the European Parliament and a member of its main administrative decision-making body, known as 'the bureau'.
Danish EU Presidency must focus on competitiveness
Strasbourg, 18th January 2012 - In a debate this morning in the European Parliament with Danish Prime Minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt, European Conservatives and Reformists group chairman Martin Callanan MEP called for the 6-month Presidency to focus on economic competitiveness, growth and the single market.
Nirj Deva and Martin Callanan congratulate new EP President
Strasbourg, 17th January 2012 - Nirj Deva MEP, one of the three candidate for European Parliament President, and Martin Callanan MEP, Chairman of the European Conservatives and Reformists group, congratulated the newly-elected President of the European Parliament today.
Nirj Deva - The European Parliament needs an alternative to deals by small elites
Strasbourg, 16th January 2012 - Nirj Deva MEP, one of the three candidates for President of the European Parliament, has today sent his full manifesto and pledge card to all MEPs, ahead of tomorrow's secret ballot for the new head of the institution (links to both docs below).
Harbour - Proof of the importance of small businesses
Strasbourg, 16th January 2012 - A European Commission study, which shows that 85 percent of net new jobs in the EU are from small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs), highlights the imperative role such businesses have in driving our economic recovery, Malcolm Harbour MEP, chairman of the European Parliament's internal market committee, said today.
S&P 'downgrade' and breakdown of Greek investor talks show it's time to stop fiddling with treaties
Brussels, 13th January 2012 - News this afternoon of further trouble in the talks between the Greek government and its private investors regarding debt restructuring, and the strong possibility of a round of credit downgrades by Standard & Poor's, have prompted European Conservatives and Reformists group chairman Martin Callanan MEP to call on EU leaders to stop fiddling with treaties and start tackling the immediate crisis.
EPP, S&D and ALDE leaders block Presidential candidates from addressing their constituents
Brussels, 12th January 2012 - The leaders of the three biggest groups in the European Parliament have teamed up to prevent the three candidates for President of the parliament from addressing MEPs ahead of the vote next week.
EU credit site sweep welcomed
Brussels, 11th January 2012 - The European Commission's publication of a credit website sweep must be followed up by national authorities to ensure that all websites offering credit in the EU are abiding by the EU's Consumer Credit Directive, Malcolm Harbour MEP, chairman of the European Parliament's internal market and consumer protection committee, said today.
Europe must 'respect' UK stance on treaty
11th January 2012 - Writing on the Public Service Europe website today, ECR chairman Martin Callanan called on the EU to respect the UK stance on the new intergovernmental treaty. He said that a flexible EU should allow some members to push towards fiscal union while ensuring that its institutions serve all 27 countries.
Callanan - EU must respect UK treaty veto, not bypass it
Brussels, 6th January 2012 - As the working group drafting the "international agreement on a reinforced economic union" (the new intergovernmental treaty creating the Fiscal Union (FU)) reconvenes today, Martin Callanan MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group chairman, and leader of the UK Conservative MEPs, warned against EU leaders attempting to bypass the UK veto by using EU institutions for a treaty signed by up to 26 EU member states.
Online gambling: developments in northern Germany offer promising model for sector’s development
21th December 2011 - Efforts by the northern German state of Schleswig-Holstein to break out of the country’s ban on private-sector companies offering online gambling services should be encouraged because they offer a vision of how the sector might develop in an economically sustainable and socially responsible way, Ashley Fox MEP, ECR Group shadow rapporteur on online gambling, said today.
Migalski receives award from Belarusian civil society
Brussels, 19th December 2011 - Marek Migalski MEP has been awarded with a sign of gratitude by several Belarusian civil society organizations. The official ceremony was held at the Polish Press Club in Warsaw. Among others awarded were actors Kevin Spacey and Jude Law, US Congress Member Christopher H. Smith, Bundestag Member Marieluise Beck.
Condolences for Václav Havel
Brussels, 18th December 2011 - Responding to the sad news of former Czechoslovak and Czech Republic President Václav Havel?s death today, Jan Zahradil MEP, vice-president of the European Conservatives and Reforimsts group and chairman of the Czech ODS delegation, said:
Death of North Korean leader creates new opportunities
Brussels, 19th December 2011 - Reacting to the death of Kim Jong-Il, Anna Rosbach MEP, Vice Chairman of The European Parliament's Delegation for Relations with the Korean Peninsula, said:
Easier movement for professionals across EU
Brussels, 19th December 2011 - But stronger regulation of foreign healthcare professionals
Proposals published by the European Commission today will assist professional workers in having their qualifications recognised across the single market, whilst tightening up protection against rogue or ineffective workers, according to UK Conservative MEP Emma McClarkin.
Poreba: Polish Presidency lacked courage, strength and determination
Strasbourg, 14th December 2011 - Today in the European Parliament, after the Polish Prime Minister's opening speech, MEPs held a debate summarising the Polish Presidency of the EU Council.
Merkel's comments confute bogus loss of UK influence argument
Strasbourg, 14th December 2011 - Angela Merkel's 'olive branch' comments to the German Bundestag today highlight that the UK is still going to remain a key player in the European Union, despite David Cameron's decision not to sign up to a Fiscal Union, Martin Callanan MEP, the new European Conservatives and Reformists group chairman and UK Tory MEP leader said today.
Martin Callanan elected President of European Conservatives and Reformists group
Strasbourg, 13th December 2011 - British Conservative MEP Martin Callanan has been elected the European Conservatives and Reformists group President in a vote this evening, succeeding Jan Zahradil MEP who made it clear in the Spring that he did not intend to run again at the half-way point in the European Parliament's term.
Jan Zahradil on the EU summit
Strasbourg, 13th December 2011 - Strasbourg, 13th December 2011 -- Speaking today in the European Parliament in the presence of Presidents Barroso and Van Rompuy, European Conservatives and Reformists group President Jan Zahradil MEP said:
Kirkhope - Not the time for hysteria
Strasbourg, 13th December 2011 - Speaking in the debate today on the outcomes of last week's European Council, Timothy Kirkhope MEP, Deputy chairman of the ECR group in the European Parliament, said:
Now more than ever is the time to break down trade barriers
Strasbourg, 13th December 2011 - The current crisis affords the EU with a golden opportunity to lead the world in breaking down all barriers to trade, including non-tariff barriers, Robert Sturdy MEP, said today after his report on the subject was overwhelmingly backed by the European Parliament.
ECR group welcomes new MEP
Strasbourg, 13th December 2011 - New British MEP Anthea McIntyre has been welcomed to the European Conservatives and Reformists group in the European Parliament.
Change of focus needed after COP17
Strasbourg, 13th December 2011 - MEP Anna Rosbach, European Conservatives and Reformists Group, attended the COP17 conference in Durban South Africa as a part of the European Parliaments official delegation.
Zahradil - Cameron and Necas stood up for their interests
Brussels, 9th December 2011 - Responding to the summit outcome early this morning, European Conservatives and Reformists group chairman Jan Zahradil MEP said:
Poreba - Cameron and Necas are absolutely right in defending their national interests and state sovereignty
Brussels, 9th December 2011 - The Prime Ministers of the UK and the Czech Republic rightly defended their national interests by vetoing treaty changes, said Law and Justice Deputy Delegation leader in the ECR Tomasz Poręba.
Keeping the pressure on Mugabe
Brussels, 8 December 2011 - Leading Zimbabwean activists Lovemore Madhuku (Chairman, National Constitutional Assembly) and Munjodzi Mutandiri (SA Co-ordinator, National Constitutional Assembly) addressed MEPs, NGOs and EU diplomats in the European Parliament on 6 December.
ICJ ruling on Macedonia 'victory for common sense and international law'
Brussels, 5th December 2011 - The International Court of Justice's ruling that Greece was wrong to block Macedonia's bid to join Nato in 2008 because of a dispute over its name has been hailed by European Conservatives and Reformists group foreign affairs spokesman Charles Tannock MEP who said he hoped Greece would now lift their longstanding veto on opening EU negotiations with Macedonia.
EU dairy agreement strengthens farmers
Brussels, 6th December 2011 - The sometimes strained relationship between farmers and the companies they supply to should be clearer and farmers' positions strengthened after MEPs and national governments reached a deal on the dairy package this morning.
Concern that Congolese election could lead to widespread violence
Brussels, 5th December 2011 - As election results are set to be announced this evening in the Democratic Republic of Congo, European Conservatives and Reformists group foreign affairs spokesman Charles Tannock MEP has warned that the lack of transparency and manipulation of the election risks seriously destabilising the entire region.
EP adopts recommendations on Ukraine Association Agreement
Brussels, 1th December 2011 - The European Parliament has adopted its recommendations to the Council, the Commission and the EEAS on the finalization of negotiations of the Association Agreement between EU and Ukraine. The proposal was tabled by European Conservatives and Reformists Vice-President Ryszard Legutko MEP, the standing rapporteur on Ukraine.
EU audit proposals must not undermine audit quality
Brussels, 30th November 2011 - As the European Commission today publishes proposals to reform the audit market in the EU today, the parliament's rapporteur (lead member) on them has said that he wants to ensure that competition is working in the auditing sector, but warns that the EU must think through any unintended consequences from its actions if it over regulates.
Nirj Deva and Struan Stevenson win Parliament Magazine Awards
Brussels, 30th November 2011 - At their annual awards ceremony last night The Parliament Magazine awarded two ECR MEPs the prize of 'MEP of the year' in their areas of work.
Zahradil - The EU must be flexible or it will not survive
Brussels, 30th November 2011 - Speaking in a debate in the European Parliament today ahead of next week's European Council meeting, European Conservatives and Reformists group President Jan Zahradil MEP warned that attempts to use the current crisis to further the European political union project will tear the EU apart.
Better ways for consumers to sort out contract disputes
29th November 2011 - ECR MEPs today welcomed planned measures to make it much easier for consumers to settle disputes over goods and services without resorting to legal action.
Birthday greetings to Yulia Tymoshenko
Brussels, 25th October 2011 - European Conservatives and Reformists group foreign affairs spokesman Charles Tannock MEP has sent Yulia Tymoshenko the greetings of the ECR group on the occasion of her birthday this Sunday (27th).
MEP´s calls to reduce food waste
Brussels, 24th November 2011 - On 22 November 2011, the EP´s Committee on Environment, Public Health and Food Safety adopted an opinion on how to avoid food wastage: strategies for a more efficient food chain in the EU.
Economic crisis and migration high on the agenda of Eurolat
Brussels, 23rd November 2011 - The economic crisis is not actually a global crisis but a Euro-Atlantic and especially eurozone debt crisis, parliamentarians from Latin America stressed at a meeting with MEPs in Brussels. Latin America registered six percent economic growth last year with a further 4.4 percent prodicted for 2012. This variance in growth, with the EU flatlining and deficits spiralling, could undermine the development of trade links between the two continents, participants heard.
EU Economic Governance package misses the point
Brussels, 23rd November 2011 - The new economic governance package and options for euro bonds unveiled today completely miss the point that the euro area does not need more governance or common debt issuance, but more growth and competitiveness, and a dose of realism, Jan Zahradil MEP, Chairman of the European Conservatives and Reformists group, said today.
Bikers' concerns over motorcycle type approval will be heard in European Parliament
Brussels, 22nd November 2011 - As a number of bikers descend on Brussels to warn against draconian legislation affecting new motorbikes, the chairman of the parliament's lead committee on the matter has said that their concerns are being heard, and will be reflected in the final law.
ECR report and recommendations on the Association Agreement between EU and Ukraine
Brussels, 18.11.11 - On 17 November 2011, the EP's Foreign Affairs committee adopted the draft report on the European Parliament’s recommendations to the Council, the Commission and the EEAS on the finalization of negotiations of the Association Agreement between EU and Ukraine. The proposal was tabled by European Conservatives and Reformists Vice-President Ryszard Legutko MEP, the standing rapporteur on Ukraine.
EU shark fin ban welcome
Brussels, 21st November 2011 - The EU has finally proposed an outright ban on shark finning, in a move welcomed by European Parliament fisheries committee Vice-President Struan Stevenson MEP, a longstanding campaigner against the practice.
Zahradil on Euro crisis: ideology prevailing over economy
Strasbourg, 16th November 2011 - This morning the European Parliament held a debate with the Presidents of the commission, council and Eurogroup regarding the future economic governance within the EU.
Single Euro rail: more clarity and transparency needed
Strasbourg, 16th November 2011 - The European Parliament today has adopted its position on a directive "establishing a single European railway area" which is the recast (bringing together in a single new act a legislative act and all the amendments made to it in the past) of the current EU legislation on liberalised rail services. Financial transparency, clear and non-discriminatory rules on track charging and allocation and better access for rail operators to rail-related services (such as common ticketing services, maintenance and repair facilities, fuelling stations, etc.), as well as independent and strong national regulatory bodies are the main elements of the proposal.
ECR calls for safeguards to professional mobility in Europe
Strasbourg, 15th November 2011 - The European Parliament sitting in Strasbourg has today approved a report by Emma McClarkin MEP on professional qualifications which aims to reduce barriers to the flow of skills and talent - but improve safeguards against rogue or ineffective professionals.
MEPs miss opportunity to create a single market in online gambling
Strasbourg, 15th November 2011 - The European Parliament has today adopted a resolution on online gambling that protects vested interests such as state monopolies rather than promote a single market in online gambling, Ashley Fox MEP, shadow lead member on the report, said today.
'Short-sighted' short selling ban adopted by MEPs
Strasbourg, 15th November 2011 - MEPs today passed new legislation that bans naked short selling, which Conservative MEP Syed Kamall has described as 'short-sighted' and 'the wrong target if you want to stabilise bond markets'.
EU Court of Auditors report: 17 years and still counting...
Brussels, 10th November 2011 - The EU's Court of Auditors has once again found the EU's budget to be affected by material error. European Conservatives and Reformists group budgetary control spokesman Ryszard Czarnecki MEP said that, as we now enter the 17th year, it is time for national governments that are most affected to be named and shamed.
MEPs vote through "EU-flag" sports report
Brussels, 10th November 2011 - Conservative MEPs have voiced concerns over a report, approved in Brussels today (Th), which seeks to intefere with the way professional sport is run in member states.
Garry Kasparov to ECR group: Putin not using tanks, but using his banks
Brussels, 8th November 2011 - Former World chess champion and Russian political activist Garry Kasparov today delivered a stark warning to the European Conservatives and Reformists group in the European Parliament: Russia is no longer part of the democratic map.
Invitation - Garry Kasparov in the European Parliament
Brussels, 07.11.2011 - Following the invitation of MEP Marek Migalski, one of the leaders of the democratic opposition in Russia and the chess grandmaster Garry Kasparov will visit the European Parliament in Brussels tomorrow. The program of the visit includes the following: simultaneous chess game involving five players, including Marek Migalski, press conference and meetings with MEPs.
ECR discusses EU Free Trade Agreement with Colombian President and Ministers
Bogotá, 2nd November 2011 - Wednesday, 2nd November 2011 -- A delegation of ECR members, led by Chairman Jan Zahradil MEP, met with the President of Colombia Mr Juan Manuel Santos Calderón in the Casa de Narino in Bogotá.
Eurozone leaders have rearranged the deck chairs on the Titanic
Strasbourg, 27th October 2011 - Speaking today in the European Parliament's debate with EU Commission and Council Presidents on last night's EU summit, Jan Zahradil MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group chairman, said:
EU-Australia Passenger Names agreement protects lives and liberties
Strasbourg, 27th October 2011 - The European Parliament has today approved an agreement on transferring passenger data to Australia, which is aimed at protecting passenger safety in a tight framework that safeguards personal data.
Jan Zahradil: Tomorrow we see if we've a Europe of statesmen or politicians
Strasbourg, 25th October 2011 - Speaking in a debate this afternoon in the European Parliament on tomorrow's European Council meeting, Jan Zahradil MEP, chairman of the ECR group, said:
MEPs' vote on EU budget 'flies in the face of European public opinion'
Strasbourg, 26th October 2011 - Today's European Parliament demand to increase the EU budget by over five percent in 2012 blatantly disregards the hardships being suffered by taxpayers, Lajos Bokros MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group budgets spokesman, said today.
Catherine Ashton replies to Paweł Kowal's appeal
Strasbourg, 25th October 2011 - The High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton has replied to Paweł Kowal MEP's urgent appeal on the case of the Iranian Pastor Yusuf Naderkhani.
EU smart borders plan an extra tool but no substitute for the human touch
Strasbourg, 25th October 2011 - Proposals put forward today by the European Commission to introduce a new 'smart borders' scheme may help to protect the external borders of the EU but they must not be seen as a substitute for 'old fashioned' techniques, Timothy Kirkhope MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group spokesman on justice and home affairs, said today.
Public procurement must be freed from its straitjacket
Strasbourg, 25th October 2011 - Public authorities' enormous buying power must be harnessed to promote economic growth and reduce costs to the taxpayer, Malcolm Harbour MEP, Chairman of the European Parliament's internal market committee, said today after the parliament adopted a set of recommendations on modernising EU public procurement rules.
Latvian Parliament backs the new government
Brussels, 21th October 2011 - After over a month of tough coalition talks, the Latvian Parliament confirmed the new government today, which will be led by current Prime Minister Valdis Dombrovskis (Unity).
After Gaddafi: where now for Libya?
Brussels, 21th October 2011 - After the death of Colonel Gaddafi yesterday, ECR foreign affairs spokesman Charles Tannock MEP has set out his views on the immediate actions Libya now needs to take to rebuild.
EU's MiFID and MAD proposals are good place to start
Brussels, 20th October 2011 - Long-awaited proposals from the European Commission that review the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID) are not perfect but provide a good place to start, Dr Kay Swinburne MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group economics spokesman, said today.
Roberts Zile: the Connecting Europe Facility gives a good opportunity to move forward with the most important transport and energy infrastructure projects
Brussels, 20th October 2011 - The European Commission yesterday has adopted a plan "Connecting Europe Facility" (CEF) which will fund €50 billion worth of investment to improve Europe's transport, energy and digital networks.
Dzmitry Bandarenka short listed for Sakharov prize
Brussels, 20th October 2011 - One of the ECR's nominees for the Sakharov Prize - Belarusian civil activist Dzmitry Bandarenka - has been short listed today by the parliament's foreign affairs committee.
Gilad Shalit finally home
Brussels, 18th October 2011 - Commenting on the news that Gilad Shalit has finally returned to Israel after five years of imprisonment by Hamas, Michal Kaminski MEP, member of the European Conservatives and Reformists group's bureau and Charles Tannock MEP, ECR foreign affairs spokesman, have rejoiced at the news but lamented the high cost to Israel of securing Shalit's release.
Petr Necas at ECR group
Brussels, 18th October 2011 - The ECR group today held an exchange of views with Prime Minister of the Czech Republic Petr Necas ahead of the important European Council meeting this weekend which will help decide the future of the Eurozone.
CAP proposals are a backward step - Nicholson
Brussels, 12th October 2011 - The proposed reform of the Common Agricultural Policy - unveiled by the EU commission this morning - lacks vision, European Conservatives and Reformists group agriculture spokesman James Nicholson MEP said today.
EU should fight harder against piracy
Brussels, 12th October 2011 - "The EU should fight piracy by all necessary means": this is the message which MEPs George Koumoutsakos and Peter van Dalen addressed to the European Commission and the European Council today.
ECR blocks globalisation fund payment
Brussels, Tuesday 12th October - European Conservatives and Reformists group votes in the European Parliament's budgets committee were instrumental in blocking a proposal to use EU funds to effectively pay social security payments to redundant French workers.
International Trade Committee adopts Sturdy Report on Trade and Investment Barriers.
Brussels, Tuesday 11th October - The European Parliament's International Trade committee adopted an important report on Trade and Investment Barriers in a Committee vote this afternoon.
EU sales law plans are unnecessary and misguided
Brussels, 11th October 2011 - Proposals from the European Commission to create an entire new regime of contract law have been described by European Conservatives and Reformists MEPs as the wrong approach to encouraging the completion of the Single Market.
Tymoshenko verdict a travesty of justice
Brussels, 11th October 2011 - Responding to today's verdict in which Yulia Tymoshenko has been jailed for seven years, European Conservatives and Reformists group foreign affairs spokesman Charles Tannock MEP said:
Kowal in meeting with Ukrainian Foreign Minister
Brussels, 11th October 2011 - Paweł Kowal took part in a joint meeting of the Committee on Foreign Affairs and EU-Ukraine Delegation in the EP. The meeting was also attended by the Ukrainian Foreign Minister Konstantin Hryszczenko, who described Ukraine's progress in negotiations with the EU Association Agreement and addressed the concerns related to the trial of former Prime Minister Yulia Timoshenko.
Youcef Nadarkhani: MEPs write to Iranian ambassador regarding imminent execution
Brussels, 10th October 2011 - ECR MEP Peter Van Dalen has written to the Iranian Ambassador to the EU urging his government to release Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani who faces the death penalty on the grounds of his religion.
Callanan: EU is making the same mistakes all over again
Manchester, 5th October 2011 - Conservative MEPs will never stop fighting to achieve a Europe that works for Britain - instead of a Britain that works for Europe, group leader Martin Callanan told party conference. (Foreign affairs debate, 11.30)
Jan Zahradil: The future of Europe is in our hands – so let’s make it a Conservative one
Manchester, 5th October 2011 - European Conservatives and Reformists group President in the European Parliament, Jan Zahradil MEP has today called for fundamental reform of the EU in his speech to the UK Conservative Party Conference.
MEPs’ EU budget vote is unacceptable
Brussels, 5th October 2011 - The European Parliament’s budgets committee has this afternoon concluded its voting session on the EU’s 2012 budget. It has ignored the desire of the Council of Ministers to peg the increase to two percent, and voted for a draft budget that even surpasses the original proposal of the European Commission.
Eastern Partnership summit crucial to maintaining necessary relationship between EU and neighbours
Strasbourg, 27th September 2011 - Between 29 and 30 September Poland will host the second summit of the Eastern Partnership, which will bring together leaders of 27 EU member states, the major EU institution heads, and EU Eastern neighbours (Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine), as well as representatives of civil society and the business world.
Jan Zahradil's response to the 'State of the Union'
28th September 2011 - Dear President Barroso, I have certain sympathies for you because I believe you really are aware that the situation is serious.
EU banks would be threatened by weaker Capital Requirements Directive, Ford warns
Brussels, 27th September 2011 - As the European Parliament begins debating the implementation of globally-agreed bank capital rules, European Conservatives and Reformists group member Vicky Ford MEP has warned that markets and investors will not reward EU banks if policymakers try to water them down.
Investing in dam infrastructure now will save lives and taxpayers' money in the future
Strasbourg, 27th September 2011 - We need a greater focus on investing in decentralised, smart and small scale flood prevention and water storage facilities in order to adapt to the changing climate and to save lives and taxpayers' money in the future, Nirj Deva MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group development spokesman, said today after his report on dam infrastructure was passed by the European Parliament.
Jan Zahradil, ECR Chairman, meeting with Jon Huntsman, a candidate for the 2012 Republican presidential nomination.
23th September 2011 - ECR Group Chairman, Jan Zahradil attended the first regional Conservative Political Action Committee (CPAC) in Orlando, Florida on 23 September.
Charles Tannock: unprecedented danger of religious extremism demands new thinking
Brussels, 20th September 2011 - The European Union cannot rely solely on the strength of its values to defeat the threat of religious extremism, Dr Charles Tannock MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists Group spokesman on foreign affairs said today ahead of a major debate in the European Parliament on the way such extremism is affecting Europe’s security and cohesion.
EU criminal law proposals substantially undermine the right of EU governments and parliaments
Brussels, 20th September 2011 - Proposals from the European Commission that aim to further the development of EU criminal law raise serious concerns about a fundamental breach of statehood within the EU, Sajjad Karim MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group legal affairs spokesman in the European Parliament, has warned.
Schengen reform proposals show commission has not listened
Brussels, 16th September 2011 - National governments asked the commission to come up with proposals that would allow them to manage major migratory pressures on their borders. Instead they get a proposal for the full Europeanisation of all decisions regarding reintroducing controls, Timothy Kirkhope MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group spokesman on justice and home affairs, said today.
ECR makes two nominations for Sakharov prize
Strasbourg, 15th September 2011 - The ECR group in the European Parliament has made two nominations for the European Parliament's Sakharov Prize this year: Dr Izzeldin Abuelaish and Dzmitry Bandarenka.
European Transfer Union will not save the Eurozone, but instead break it up
Strasbourg, 14th September 2011 - Speaking in a debate on the European Parliament in the Eurozone crisis this morning, EU Commission President Barroso said he would bring forward plans for a Financial Transaction Tax and Eurobonds - some of which might even require an EU treaty change. He also described the crisis as a 'moment federateur'.
Szymanski - Liberalization will increase energy security
Strasbourg, 14th September 2011 - PiS MEP Konrad Szymanski called for greater competition in the energy market following a successful vote on a new regulation on integrity and transparency in the energy market, in the European Parliament. Speaking in a debate in the parliament on the report last night, he said: "Competition will be conducive to lower prices for consumer and industrial applications. This in turn will translate into profitability and competitiveness for the European economy."
Plenary note of Jan Zahradil, ECR Group Chairman on the massacres in Norway this summer
Strasbourg, 14th September 2011 - Mr President,
whatever our differing views in this chamber on specific issues, I hope that we can all agree that Europe is a continent of tolerance, of freedom and of pluralism. We have united in the past to fight those who stand for intolerance and oppression, and to resist those who want to destroy our open and democratic society.
MEPs call for EU oil and gas drilling standards to be refined
Strasbourg, 13th September 2011 - A report drafted by Vicky Ford MEP, adopted by the European Parliament this afternoon, is calling on European Regulators to improve safety standards and clean-up planning around EU oil and gas drilling sites. Her proposals are intended to improve safety across Europe in light of last year's Gulf of Mexico tragedy.
MEP Marina's agenda for more "mumpreneurs"
Strasbourg, 13th September 2011 - Measures to create a wave of new female entrepreneurs have been set out in a report to the European Parliament by a Conservative MEP.
Ukraine-EU association agreement will anchor them to the EU: Legutko
Strasbourg, 13th September 2011 - Last night in the parliament's foreign affairs committee, European Conservatives and Reformists Vice-President MEP Ryszard Legutko presented his recommendations to the Council, the Commission and the EU's External Action Service on the negotiations on the EU's Association Agreement with Ukraine.
EP President condemns attack on MEP's home
Strasbourg, 12th September 2011 - The president of the European Parliament today issued a statement supporting British MEP Sajjad Karim after his house was besieged by members of the far-Right English Defence League.
Zahradil - September 11 anniversary must re-stiffen our resolve
11th September 2011 - To mark the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks in New York and Washington DC this weekend, European Conservatives and Reformists group President Jan Zahradil MEP issued the following statement:
Plans for an EU military HQ will undermine NATO
Brussels, 8th September 2011 - On top of calls in certain quarters for EU fiscal and economic integration, there is now a push for a similar approach on defence.
Chichester opposes Brussels scheme to control energy deals
Brussels, 7th September 2011 - Conservative MEP Giles Chichester have vowed to fight a European Commission bid to control and vet all major energy deals between EU states and other countries such as Libya or Russia.
Jan Zahradil's post-recess message
Brussels, 6th September 2011 - European Conservatives and Reformists group President Jan Zahradil MEP has today sent a message to his colleagues setting out the many challenges facing the EU.
Tannock renews call for Somaliland independence at meeting with Ethiopian Prime Minister
Addis Ababa, 1st September 2011 - Ethiopia should take the lead and declare Somaliland - the former British protectorate breakaway region within the state of Somalia - an independent sovereign state, Charles Tannock MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group foreign affairs spokesman, said today at a meeting in Addis Ababa with Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi.
Schengen agreement must be reformed
Brussels, 31st August 2011 - In a debate with the European Commission today, Timothy Kirkhope MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group justice and home affairs spokesman in the European Parliament, argued for a robust new Schengen agreement that allows national governments control over migratory pressures but ensures free movement of EU citizens.
Gaddafi and sons should face international justice
Brussels, 22nd August 2011 - Col. Muammar Gaddafi and his sons should be put before the International Criminal Court to answer for their crimes against the Libyan people, Dr Charles Tannock MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists Group foreign affairs coordinator, said today as the Libyan capital Tripoli looked set to fall to rebel forces, thus ending one of the Arab world’s most nefarious, long-lasting and corrupt dictatorships.
ECR Chairman Jan Zahradil's statement on Norway attacks
Brussels, 27th July - ECR Chairman Jan Zahradil's statement on Norway attacks
Following the tragic and horrifying events and loss of innocent life in Norway, the Chairman of the ECR Group expressed his deep condolences with the people of Norway, its victims, and their friends and family.
ECR's 2nd anniversary
Brussels, 14th July 2011 - On the 14th July the European Conservatives and Reformists group in the European Parliament marks the second anniversary since its inaugration. To mark the occasion, ECR chairman Jan Zahradil MEP last night sent the following email to ECR members and staff:
Latest attacks in Mumbai raise questions about possible involvement of Pakistani extremists
Brussels, 14th July 2011 - The apparently coordinated triple bombings in Mumbai, India’s commercial capital, once again raise concerns that jihadi extremists based in Pakistan may have orchestrated another terrorist attack on the world’s most populous democracy.
EU to create its own terror finance tracking system
Brussels, 13th July 2011 - The announcement that the EU aims to create its own terrorist financing tracking programme has been welcomed by Timothy Kirkhope MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group home affairs spokesman.
Fisheries management should be based on local science, not politics
Brussels, 13th July 2011 - The Common Fisheries Policy reform proposals published today by the European Commission do not go far enough in devolving responsibility for fisheries management away from Brussels and down to a more local level, Marek Grobarczyk MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists Group fisheries spokesman said today.
Gulf of Mexico spill: MEPs adopt proposals to raise standards in oil and gas drilling
Brussels, 12th July 2011 - Euro-MPs in the parliament's industry and energy committee have today adopted a report drafted by European Conservatives and Reformists group member Vicky Ford which seeks to learn the lessons from the DeepWater Horizon spill in the Gulf of Mexico and sets out proposals to improve safety in the EU without introducing a one-size-fits-all safety regime.
7-7 anniversary reminds the EU of the need for continued cooperation
Strasbourg, 7th July 2011 - The European Parliament today held a minute's silence to mark the sixth anniversary of the 7/7 bombing in London. Speaking on the anniversary, Timothy Kirkhope MEP, Conservative justice and home affairs spokesman, said that the anniversary reminds us of the need to continue mutual cooperation both across the EU and with other partners to thwart terrorism.
Conservative MEP demands final push in the fight against anti-personnel landmines
Strasbourg, 7th July 2011 - At the initiative of Geoffrey Van Orden MEP, the European Parliament delivered its verdict today (7 July) on the remaining problems associated with anti-personnel mines worldwide. Mr Van Orden, who has been engaged on the anti-personnel landmine issue going back to the Ottawa Treaty preparation in 1997, drafted the report entitled 'Progress on Mine Action'.
ECR chairman meets professor Yunus
Strasbourg, 6. July 2011 - The ECR group chairman Jan Zahradil met professor Muhammad Yunus, the 2006 Nobel Peace Prize winner, during the plenary session in Strasbourg. They discussed the role of so called "microcredits" in developing countries.
Life-threatening traffic offences across borders in the EU will no longer go unpunished
Strasbourg, 6th July 2011 - As EU citizens become more mobile across the EU, it is important to have in place proportionate rules that ensure they do not get away with committing potentially lethal traffic offences when abroad, Roberts Zile MEP and Peter Van Dalen MEP of the European Conservatives and Reformists group, said today.
"More Europe" is not the answer to every crisis
Strasbourg, 6th July 2011 - MEPs have today argued that a future economic crisis will be averted if only we adopt 'more Europe', but thankfully that bizarre notion was not backed up by an initial proposal to increase the EU's budget five to ten times in size after it was dropped thanks to efforts from European Conservatives and Reformists Group.
New EU food labelling rules empower consumers to make better choices
Strasbourg, 6th July 2011 - New EU food labelling rules adopted today by the European Parliament will give consumers greater information regarding country of origin for meat and nutritional qualities, Struan Stevenson MEP, one of the shadow rapporteurs who helped steer the legislation through the parliament, said today.
Conservatives welcome market shake up to bring real competition to mobile communications
Strasbourg, 6th July 2011 - Conservative MEPs have welcomed new plans for a major market shake up in mobile roaming. These will drive down prices for voice and data services to people travelling abroad.
Giles Chichester elected Vice-President of the European Parliament
Strasbourg, 6th July 2011 - ECR Member Giles Chichester MEP was today elected as Vice-President of the European Parliament.
Polish Presidency should work for a Europe that guarantees the freedom and equality of EU states and nations
Strasbourg, 6th July 2011 - Speaking today in the European Parliament, in response to Prime Minister Tusk's inauguration speech for the Polish Presidency of the EU, MEP Ryszard Legutko speaking on behalf of the European Conservatives and Reformists group said that the Polish Presidency should not be arrogant in pursuing a federalist post-national and post-state Europe and that the threat of the artificial creation of an EU demos should subside.
New Derivatives rules to deliver increased transparency and reduce risk
Strasbourg, 5th July 2011 - New rules on the transparency and clearing of derivative products agreed by the European Parliament today should improve the safety of financial markets.
Kamall - a ban on naked Credit Default Swaps will create increasingly complex financial products
Strasbourg, 5th July 2011 - A ban on naked Credit Default Swaps (CDS) will do little to stabilise bond markets but it will encourage even more complex financial products to take their place, adding more risk to the financial system, Syed Kamall MEP, Conservative shadow rapporteur on a proposed directive, said today.
Zahradil - New EU member states must stand up and give the EU a new direction
Strasbourg, 5th July 2011 - Speaking today in a debate with Hungarian PM Viktor Orban to mark the end of their Presidency of the Council of Ministers, European Conservatives and Reformists group President Jan Zahradil MEP said:
ECR group adopts fisheries reform programme
Brussels, 29th June 2011 - The European Conservatives and Reformists group in the European Parliament has adopted its proposals for reform of the Common Fisheries Policy ahead of the unveiling of European Commission plans next month.
The declaration was adopted following a debate with UK Fisheries Minister Richard Benyon MP.
Read my lips: No EU taxes
Brussels, 29th June 2011 - The European Conservatives and Reformists group in the European Parliament has pledged to fight the EU's efforts to raise its own taxation.
The eurozone crisis must not cause us to ignore the underlying economic challenges: Kirkhope
Brussels, 28th June 2011 - Speaking in a debate in the European Parliament on the outcome of last week's EU summit, Timothy Kirkhope MEP, Deputy Chairman of the European Conservatives and Reformists group in the European Parliament, warned that whilst attention is rightly on the eurozone crisis, the EU must not forget the need to improve competitiveness in order to shake off its wider economic malaise.
CAP reform needs to free farmers from red tape and enable them to respond to market farmers: Nicholson
Brussels, 23rd June 2011 - ECR Group agriculture spokesman James Nicholson MEP has given his cautious support to a report by Albert Dess MEP on the future of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), which was adopted by the European Parliament today.
A new Consumer Rights Directive which improves consumer protection and boosts the digital Single Market
Brussels, 23rd June 2011 - Today, after almost three years of complex negotiations, the European Parliament adopted by a broad majority the compromise text agreed with the council on the Directive on Consumer Rights. The Directive replaces and modernises the outdated Doorstep Selling and Distance Sales Directives and addresses the patchwork of different consumer rights across the EU. It reinforces the Single Market, in particular for online sales.
Commission looks to shake up professional mobility in Europe
Brussels, 23rd June 2011 - Yesterday, the European Commission announced a Green Paper on modernising and simplifying the recognition of professional qualifications around the EU. The announcement comes after Commissioner Barnier cited enhanced professional mobility as a key target in the Single Market Act earlier this year.
Zahradil - This is not a crisis of Europe, but a crisis of an outdated concept of EU integration
Brussels, 22nd June 2011 - Speaking in a debate in the European Parliament with President Barroso - ahead of the EU summit on Thursday and Friday - ECR Chairman Jan Zahradil MEP said:
Screening of the documentary film “10.04.10” in the European Parliament
Brussels, June 20th 2011 - The Press Office of the Law and Justice Party Delegation in the European Parliament is pleased to inform you about the screening of the documentary film“10.04.10” by Anita Gargas, on Wednesday June 22nd at 5 pm.
Job-killing EU plans for 20 weeks fully paid maternity leaves shelved
Brussels, 16th June 2011 - Legislative proposals from the European Parliament - that would give women 20 weeks of maternity leave on full pay - are set to be shelved tomorrow when EU employment ministers meet.
Ryszard Legutko, Vice-President of the ECR Group in the European Parliament - representative of the ECR group during the Conference of Presidents in Warsaw, June 16-17th 2011
Brussels, 16.06.2011 - The Press Office of the Law and Justice Party Delegation in the European Parliament is pleased to inform that the Vice-President of the European Conservatives and Reformists Group and Chairman of the Law and Justice Party Delegation in the European Parliament, Ryszard Legutko will be participating in the visit of the Conference of Presidents to Warsaw.
EU consumer protection brought into the digital age
Brussels, 16th June 2011 - Consumers will get new rights and businesses will be clearer about the rules, particularly when trading cross-border, thanks to a new EU Consumer Rights Directive adopted with near unanimous support today in the European Parliament's Internal Market and Consumer Protection committee, chaired by European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) group member Malcolm Harbour MEP.
A glimmer of hope for Zimbabwe
Brussels, 16 June 2011 - Mr Geoffrey Van Orden MEP, who spearheads the European Parliament's campaign for freedom and democratic change in Zimbabwe, yesterday (15 June 2011) hosted a conference with leading Zimbabwean civil society activists. McDonald Lewanika (Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition), Cephas Zinhumwe (National Association of Zimbabwean NGOs) and Gabriel Shumba (Zimbabwe Exiles Forum), joined MDC (Movement for Democratic Change) representatives, MEPs and EU diplomats for the discussion.
ECR and Belgian N-VA leadership meet in Antwerp
Brussels, 15th June 2011 - The bureau of the European Conservatives and Reformists group in the European Parliament and the leadership of the largest party in Belgium, the NVA, met on Tuesday evening to discuss the ongoing efforts to form a government in the country, and the domestic political scene.
Charles Tannock MEP slams World Health Organisation for referring to Taiwan as a province of China
Brussels, 14th June 2011 - The World Health Organization (WHO) risks undermining its own credibility and impartiality by continuing to refer to Taiwan as a province of China, ECR Group foreign affairs spokesman Charles Tannock said today as he wrote a letter of protest to the WHO’s Director-General.
European Arrest Warrant needs urgent reform, MEPs unite to tell commission
Strasbourg, 8th June 2011 - Euro-MPs, in a rare display of unity, have called on the European Commission to look at reforming the European Arrest Warrant so that it is only used as a tool against serious crime and terrorism, and not petty misdemeanours.
South Sudan needs EU backing more than ever
Strasbourg, 8th June 2011 - South Sudan remains threatened militarily by the Khartoum government and needs the EU's wholehearted political and humanitarian support if it is to survive as an independent sovereign state, ECR MEPs Charles Tannock, Nirj Deva and Peter van Dalen said today.
EU budget: MEPs set themselves on collision course with national governments
Strasbourg, 8th June 2011 - 'Totally unacceptable' proposals adopted by the European Parliament today - which will see the next long-term EU budget increased by five percent, rebates scrapped and EU direct taxes - have put MEPs on a collision course with national governments, Richard Ashworth MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group spokesman said today.
MEPs back 'highly dubious' plans for EU contract law
Strasbourg, 8th June 2011 - Plans put forward by the European Parliament today - that would create a whole new regime of EU law to apply to contracts - will provide unclear benefits to consumers and will add a whole new layer of administrative burdens onto businesses, Sajjad Karim MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group legal affairs spokesman warned today.
Heavy Goods Vehicles: governments can ask for contributions towards infrastructure and other costs
Strasbourg, 7th June 2011 - National governments will have the flexibility to charge heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) for both the wear and tear on infrastructure and the noise and air pollution that they cause, under plans agreed today by MEPs.
Beyond GDP: Clear indicators needed to measure policy outcomes
Strasbourg, 7th June 2011 - The EU is right to propose moving 'beyond GDP' in analysing the success and failure of its policies but the measurements that it uses must be consistent and measurable, Anna Rosbach MEP, from the European Conservatives and Reformists group in the European Parliament, said today in a report adopted by MEPs.
Armenian amnesty welcomed by ECR group
6th June 2011 - The ECR Group strongly welcomes the recent general amnesty adopted by the National Assembly of Armenia on a proposal by President Serzh Sargsyan. The amnesty follows the start of a promising dialogue between the government and an opposition group, the Armenian National Congress, in a climate of mutual respect.
EU modernises standards-setting in the internal market
Brussels, 1st June 2011 - The process of setting technical standards - a voluntary alternative to regulation - will be made simpler and faster and will be extended to services thanks to a European Commission package on standardization, published today.
'More Europe' is not the answer to preventing an economic crisis
Brussels, 30th May 2011 - A temporary committee set up to investigate the causes of the economic crisis are mistakenly calling for more EU integration to prevent a future crisis, Dr Kay Swinburne MEP and Roberts Zile MEP, said today.
ECR nominates Giles Chichester for vacant EP Vice-Presidency
Brussels, 31st May 2011 - The ECR group today agreed through an acclamation that Giles Chichester MEP will be the group's candidate for the vacant position of Vice-President of the European Parliament.
CAP - MEPs vote for greener, leaner CAP
Brussels, 25th May 2011 - James Nicholson MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group agriculture spokesman today welcomed a proposal for reform of the Common Agricultural Policy which further introduces market forces to the CAP, recognises the need for farmers in the EU to produce more and focuses on compensation for the environmental public goods which farmers provide. The proposal was adopted by the European Parliament's agriculture committee this afternoon.
MEPs make unacceptable demands for next long-term EU budget
Brussels, 25th May 2011 - MEPs have today adopted proposals for the next seven year budget of the EU which are 'wholly unacceptable' and call for a five percent budget increase, European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) group spokesman Richard Ashworth MEP, said today.
ECR MEP Marek Migalski pushes for efforts to resolve the Sergei Magnitsky case
Brussels, 26.05.2011 - On the initiative of Polish PJN MEP Marek Migalski an extraordinary meeting of the European Parliament's Delegation to the EU-Russia Parliamentary Cooperation Committee was held today. The meeting focused on the death of the well-known Russian lawyer and human rights activist Sergei Magnitsky. In addition to MEPs serving in the EU-Russia Delegation, the meeting was attended by the European External Action Service's director for Russia, Mr. Gunnar Wiegand, and Mr. William Browder, of the London firm Hermitage Capital Management, where Sergei Magnitsky used to work.
Roberts Zīle MEP: safety for drivers of motorcycles and quad bikes needs to be improved
Brussels, 25th May 2011 - The European Parliament's Transport and Tourism Committee today with adopted with an overwhelming majority the opinion prepared by the ECR coordinator in the committee, Latvian MEP Roberts Zile on the approval and market surveillance of two, three-wheeled vehicles and quadricycles.
ECR MEP heads new initiative to create waste free oceans
Brussels, 25.05.2011 - ECR Danish MEP Anna Rosbach has become chairwoman of Waste Free Oceans, a project that is seeking to raise awareness of marine debris in Europe's coastal waters.
ECR Member initiates debate on Sergei Magnitsky and human rights defenders around the world
Brussels, 25.05.2011 - On the initiative of Polish PJN MEP Marek Migalski on Thursday, May 26 the European Parliament's Delegation to the EU-Russia Parliamentary Cooperation Committee will hold an extraordinary meeting dedicated to the well-known Russian lawyer and human rights activist Sergei Magnitsky.
ECR group set to become fourth largest in the European Parliament
Brussels, 25th May 2011 - David Campbell Bannerman MEP has today applied to join the European Conservatives and Reformists group in the European Parliament, making the group the fourth largest in the parliament
Ukraine's Tymoshenko arrest: motives must not be political
Brussels, 24th May 2011 - European Conservatives and Reformists group foreign affairs spokesman Charles Tannock MEP has expressed severe concern that today's detention of Ukrainian opposition leader Yulia Tymoshenko is motivated by politics.
Europe can´t afford a "nuclear panic"
Brussels, 19. May 2001 - The disaster in distant Japan had a large psychological impact on Europe's perception of energy, Evzen Tosenovsky MEP said at the European Nuclear Energy Forum in Prague. According to Mr. Tosenovsky, energy sources without nuclear contributions would, however, be problematic and its economic weight would be enormous.
The case of journalist Andrzej Poczobut will be discussed in the EP
24th may 2011 - On the initiative of Michał Kamiński, there will be a debate concerning the arrest of Gazeta Wyborcza's journalist Andrzej Poczobut by the Belarussian police.
France takes ECR MEP's amendment to European Court of Justice
Brussels, 18th May 2011 - The French government has now formally filed a court case against an amendment proposed by Conservative MEP Ashley Fox aimed at reducing the costs to the taxpayer and CO2 emissions caused by the European Parliament's two-seat operation.
EU employment agencies duplicate effort and must be rationalised
Strasbourg, 11th May - The EU's employment agencies see considerable overlap between their programmes and the European Commission needs to take action to prevent duplication of efforts, Roger Helmer MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group member said today after he secured a European Commission statement on the subject.
Ashton told to "stop flogging the dead horse of EU defence policy"
Strasbourg, 11th May 2011 - In the European Parliament in Strasbourg today MEPs debated the EU's defence ambitions with the EU High Representative, Baroness Ashton. She received criticism from euro-federalists for not doing enough and from euro-realists for having unrealistic and inappropriate ambitions.
Financial institutions need to be risk aware, not risk averse
Strasbourg, 11th May 2011 - Ahead of the publication of new legislative proposals from the European Commission on corporate governance in financial institutions, the European Parliament has backed a report by European Conservatives and Reformists member Ashley Fox MEP that calls for a greater level of risk awareness and management by both supervisors and financial institutions.
Syria - reform not repression needed
Strasbourg, 11th May 2011 - The Syrian regime must respond to the recent wave of protests with democratic reform, not repression and human rights violations, Charles Tannock MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group foreign affairs spokesman, said today.
EU Action Service is heading for an existential crisis
Strasbourg, 11th May 2011 - The European External Action Service (EEAS) has rightly been low-profile in its first six months, leaving EU governments to drive the foreign policy agenda, but such a pre-Lisbon treaty 'business-as-usual' approach does not justify the high increases in spending brought about by the service, Charles Tannock MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group foreign affairs spokesman, said today.
Michal Kaminski: EU aid should not be used by enemies of Israel
Strasbourg, 11.05.2011 - During today's debate on the main aspects and basic choices of the Common Foreign and Security Policy, Michal Kaminski MEP expressed his support for Israel, which is the only democracy in the Middle East:
Kožušník - Raúl Castro must not use reforms as a cloak for repression
Strasbourg, 10th May 2011 - ECR member Edvard Kožušník, MEP has called on the President of Cuba, Raúl Castro, to abandon his plans for pushing the opposition off the squares and streets.
Socialist MEPs oppose free trade efforts to help Pakistani flood victims
Strasbourg, 10th May 2011 - Socialist MEPs in the European Parliament have been branded as 'particularly mean-spirited' today after they tried to reject a proposal to temporarily remove EU tariffs on key Pakistani exports aimed at helping the Pakistani people to rebuild their country following last year's devastating floods.
ECR group refuses to endorse EU accounts
Strasbourg, 10th May 2011 - The European Conservatives and Reformists group in the European Parliament has voted against 'granting discharge' (signing off) to the EU's accounts and has called for a comprehensive spending review across the EU institutions.
New embargo-busting Israeli flotilla is a provocative act
Strasbourg, 10th May 2011 - Plans to launch a new Gaza flotilla are an act of provocation against the state of Israel and the EU should strongly condemn them, Charles Tannock MEP and Peter Van Dalen MEP from the European Conservatives and Reformists group in the European Parliament, said today.
South Korean Parliament ratifies EU FTA
Brussels, 5th May 2011 - After years of negotiations, the final steps for a European Union-South Korea Free Trade Agreement (FTA) have been completed with the ratification of the agreement in the South Korean National Assembly.
Paweł Kowal: "Ukraine -- Either an Association Agreement with the EU or a Customs Union with Russia"
Brussels, 03.05.2011 - Paweł Kowal, Chairman of the EU-Ukraine Parliamentary Cooperation Committee, presented a report on the state of negotiations of the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement at today's meeting of the European Conservative and Reformists Group.
Pakistan must prove it is not ambivalent to terror
Brussels, 3rd May 2011 - As the Bin Laden death has once again turned the spotlight onto Pakistan's efforts to root out terrorists on its own soil, Charles Tannock MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group spokesman on foreign affairs, has today called on Pakistan to prove that there are no elements of collusion or 'turning a blind eye' to terrorism within certain circles of its administration or the Pakistani intelligence service, the ISI.
EU migration woes: 'more Europe' is not the answer
Brussels, 3rd May 2011 - As the European Commission prepares to publish proposals tomorrow to tighten up its border-free travel area and to look at longer-term measures to tackle potentially large migration flows, Timothy Kirkhope MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group home affairs spokesman, has called for the Schengen agreement to be updated to make it more relevant to an age where large migratory flows, organised crime and terrorism have a very different face to 1985 when the agreement was first signed.
Commission pushing forward with EU contract law plans
Brussels, 3rd May 2011 - The European Commission is pushing ahead with 'questionable' plans to enable businesses and consumers to opt for EU law for their contracts, rather than their domestic law, Sajjad Karim MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group legal affairs spokesman warned today following a hearing of the ECR addressed by Commission Vice-President Reding.
Bin Laden's death: the fight for freedom continues
Brussels, 2nd May 2011 - The death of Osama Bin Laden today, at the hand of American forces, may finally bring some peace for the families of the thousands of people killed by his terror network. However, the fight against terrorism is far from over and the world must continue to stand firm in its resolve, Jan Zahradil MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group chairman in the European Parliament, said today.
Libyan Crown Prince speaks to EU Parliament
Brussels, 20th April 2011 - ECR MEP Nirj Deva today hosted a hearing in the
European Parliament with exiled Crown Prince of Libya Mohammed El
Senussi where he told MEPs that the departure of ruler Colonel Muammar
Gaddafi "could be expedited if more nations stepped down off the fence
and committed themselves to rid the world of one of its most evil
tyrants."
Federalist MEPs want one constituency: Europe
Brussels, 19th April 2011 - The European Parliament's Constitutional Affairs committee has today called for 25 MEPs to be elected to represent the constituency of Europe, Ashley Fox MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group constitutional affairs spokesman warned.
Kirkhope - We must work across the Atlantic on cyber security
Washington D. C. - Timothy Kirkhope MEP, Deputy Chairman of the European Conservatives and Reformists group delivered a keynote address this morning at a workshop organised by the Hungarian embassy to the USA on cyber security.
Single Market Act breaks down many barriers that prevent the EU's marketplace from flourishing
Brussels, 13th April 2011 - After 18 months of rhetoric about relaunching the EU's Single Market, the European Commission has today delivered a solid proposal for a 'Single Market Act' (SMA) which will act as a strong foundation for making the 27-nation marketplace more relevant to the 21st century, said Malcolm Harbour MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group chairman of the parliament's internal market committee.
Invitation for opening of the "Truth and Memory" exhibition dedicated to the April 10th Smolensk plane crash
Strasbourg, 06.04.2011 - The European Conservatives and Reformists Group is pleased to invite you to an exhibition dedicated to the April 10th Smolensk plane crash, which will be officially opened on 12.4.2011 at 16:00, in the European Parliament in Brussels.
Keeping the pressure on Mugabe
Strasbourg, 7 April 2011 - The political situation in Zimbabwe has taken a serious turn for the worse. State security forces, controlled by President Robert Mugabe, have resumed a campaign of intimidation and brutality towards opponents of the regime, including those who are supposed to be taking part in the power sharing coalition. Governments of neighbouring countries have at last begun to toughen their stance.
MEPs adopt report aimed at updating EU rules on Bluetongue vaccination
Strasbourg, 7th April 2011 - European Conservatives and Reformists member Janusz Wojciechowski MEP has welcomed a vote in the European Parliament today adopting his legislative report aimed at updating the EU's rules on vaccination against bluetongue.
European Parliament budget must not increase by 2.3 percent
Strasbourg, 6th April 2011 - A budgetary increase for the European Parliament of 2.3 percent is 'completely unacceptable', Lajos Bokros MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group budgets spokesman, said today after MEPs voted for the guidelines for its own 2012 budget.
Harbour - Time to be single-minded about the Single Market
Strasbourg, 6th April 2011 - The European Parliament has given strong backing to a series of proposals that aim to revitalise the Single Market, make it more accessible to businesses of all sizes, and take advantage of the digital and globalised age, Malcolm Harbour MEP, Chairman of the parliament's internal market committee, said today.
Sanitation innovation needs EU support: Deva
Strasbourg, 5th April 2011 - After an exchange of views with Microsoft chairman and philanthropist Bill Gates in the European Parliament's development committee, Nirj Deva MEP, committee Vice-President called on the EU to do more to support innovation in sanitation systems.
New EU Roma strategy interferes with national governments' sovereignty
Strasbourg, 5th April 2011 - The European Commission has missed an opportunity to set out a new Roma strategy that supports basic fundamental rights of Roma people and the EU principle of free movement, instead opting for a framework that interferes in domestic policy issues, particularly education, employment, health and housing.
EU response to a crisis should not be 'more Europe'
Strasbourg, 5th April 2011 - Speaking in a debate with Presidents Barroso and Van Rompuy today on last month's European Council, European Conservatives and Reformists group president Jan Zahradil MEP warned that the EU should not use the ongoing crisis as an opportunity to further centralise powers.
Euro 15Mn commission pump priming for promoting innovation in public procurement
Brussels, 31th March 2011 - The European Commission has today put its money where its mouth is by agreeing to set aside a budget of €15Mn as an initial pump priming budget for driving innovation in public procurement.
A safe future for Europe's offshore oil and gas industry
Brussels, 30th March 2011 - A hearing in the European Parliament yesterday brought together oil and gas operators, regulators, public bodies and environmental campaigners to discuss the safety of offshore oil and gas drilling in European waters. The event, hosted by Vicky Ford MEP, examined the implications for Europe's offshore industry in light of the Deepwater Horizon accident in the Gulf of Mexico last year.
Roberts Zile -The White Paper on the Future of Transport sets ambitious goals for cleaner, safer and more efficient transport
Brussels, 29th March 2011 - Roberts Zile MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group coordinator on the parliament's Transport and Tourism committee, has welcomed the European Commission's long-awaited White Paper on the Future of Transport, published yesterday and debated today with transport Commissioner Siim Kallas.
Cloning row causes new novel foods regulation to fall
Brussels, 29th March 2011 - Last-ditch discussions between the European Parliament and the Council of Ministers on a new Novel Foods regulation have broken down without any agreement, thus meaning the new regulation falls.
EU Council meeting: time for the EU to realise its limits
Brussels, 23rd March 2011 - Speaking in a debate in the European Parliament ahead of tomorrow's summit of EU heads of state and government, European Conservatives and Reformists group chairman Jan Zahradil MEP warned the EU against furthering its powers under the banner of European economic governance, and said that the Libyan crisis has shown the limits to the EU's Common Foreign and Security Policy.
Petition was lodged with the Petitions committee in the European Parliament regarding the Smolensk Polish Air Force Tupolev Tu154M crash
Brussels, 21.03.2011 - A petition has been lodged with the European Parliament's Petitions committee on the Smolensk disaster, calling for an international investigation and support and commitment from the European Union into the Polish technical investigation to determine the causes of the disaster.
No-fly zone shows strong Franco-British leadership, but also highlights failure of common EU foreign policy
Brussels, 18th March 2011 - Prime Minister David Cameron and President Nicolas Sarkozy are to be congratulated for their strong leadership in securing agreement on a no-fly zone over Libya, Charles Tannock MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group foreign affairs spokesman in the European Parliament, said today.
Zahradil speech to Conference of Presidents
Brussels, 16th March 2011 - In his first intervention in the European Parliament as President of the European Conservatives and Reformists group Jan Zahradil MEP raised concerns about the pressurising of Ireland to change its tax rates, highlighted the clear limitations of a common EU foreign policy in tackling the Libyan crisis, and warned against a populist reaction to the tragic situation in Japan.
Common EU tax base proposal completely misses the point
Brussels, 16th March 2011 - Plans published today for a common EU-wide method of computing corporate taxes are unnecessary and could damage countries that choose to have more competitive corporate tax regimes, Kay Swinburne MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group economics spokesman, warned today.
France to take Fox amendment on Strasbourg to European Court
Brussels, 15th March 2011 - France's Europe Minister has today confirmed that it will take an amendment to reduce the number of European Parliament sittings in Strasbourg, proposed by Conservative MEP Ashley Fox, to the European Court of Justice.
EU money in repressive regimes must be more carefully monitored for results
Brussels, 14th March 2011 - A hearing in the European Parliament today, chaired by Nirj Deva MEP, heard how the largest recipient of EU aid - Ethiopia - has an extremely repressive regime that provides little accountability for the EU funding that goes to it.
International Response to the Earthquake in Japan
Brussels, 12th March 2011 - Nirj Deva MEP, Vice-Chair of the humanitarian Development Committee and ECR spokesman for International Development said:
"In December 2004 I was in Sri Lanka when the Tsunami hit the coast. I witnessed the devastation and human suffering caused by a natural disaster that we could neither predict nor control. Today Japan faces a similar tragedy. The death count is estimated in the region of 600 people and still rising. 215,000 people have been forced from their homes and thousands more are now either stranded or staying in evacuation centres.
MEPs' Brussels to Strasbourg treks to be cut
Strasbourg, 9th March 2011 - Proposals put forward by Conservative MEP Ashley Fox to cut down on the number of trips between Brussels and Strasbourg have been adopted today in a vote that will save EU taxpayers 15 Million Euros and save the environment from 1600 tonnes of needless carbon dioxide.
Anna Rosbach joins ECR group
9th March 2011 - Anna Rosbach MEP, an independent MEP from Denmark last night joined the ECR group in the European Parliament.
International Women's Day 2011
9th March 2011 - Spokeswoman for Women's Rights, Marina Yannakoudakis today delivered her speech to the plenary on behalf of the ECR group. This is what Marina had to say on the issue of quotas for women in business:
Jan Zahradil MEP elected chairman of the ECR group
Strasbourg, 8th March 2011 - Czech MEP Jan Zahradil from the ODS party has been elected the leader of the ECR group in the European Parliament.
Tannock - Straits Exchange Foundation has helped build confidence and prosperity on both sides of the Taiwan Strait
Brussels, 8 March 2011 - Taiwan's Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) has helped to forge an historic détente between Taipei and Beijing and deserves a special place in Taiwan's history, Dr Charles Tannock MEP, ECR Group spokesman on foreign affairs, said today on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the SEF's establishment.
EU taxes backed by MEPs
Strasbourg, 8th March 2011 - Not content with consistently fighting for EU budget increases, MEPs now want to give the EU powers to raise its own taxes, Ivo Strejcek, European Conservatives and Reformists MEP, warned today after his colleagues overwhelmingly backed a report calling for 'innovative financing'.
The right person for the job
Brussels, 1st March 2011 - ECR Women's Spokesman Marina Yannakoudakis MEP has welcomed EU Commissioner Reding's self- regulatory initiative to get more women into top positions in boardrooms across the UK. The "Women on the Board for Europe" Pledge was set out today by the Commissioner for Fundamental Rights. Commissioner Reding said that she was keen to give self- regulation a chance and has encouraged businesses across Europe to increase the number of senior women in companies.
Assassination of Pakistan’s minister for minorities is another alarming example of the country’s radicalisation
Brussels, 2nd March 2011 - The assassination of Shahbaz Bhatti, Pakistan’s minister for minorities, yet again exposes the country’s apparent inability to rein in home-grown extremism, Dr Charles Tannock, European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) Group foreign affairs and human rights spokesman, said today.
Edvard Kožušník personally expresses his support to the Cuban opposition
Brussels, 1 March 2011 - Edvard Kožušník, Member of the European Parliament for the Civic Democrats and a member of the European Conservatives and Reformists, has travelled to Cuba to personally express his support for the Cuban opposition to the regime. His decision to visit the country came after the totalitarian regime’s ruling the “island of freedom” would not allow Guillermo Farinas, the winner of the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought, to travel and collect the prize.
EU must support fundamental pillars of free society in Egypt
Brussels 28th February - Nirj Deva MEP, Vice-Chair of the Development Committee and ECR spokesman for International Development, via a live video link with Dr. Ayman Nour, Egyptian Opposition Politician, said:
EU hearing highlights caste discrimination in South Asia
Brussels, 28th February 2011 - A hearing in the European Parliament this evening co-chaired by Nirj Deva MEP, vice-President of the development committee, has heard about the still prolific level of caste-based discrimination that occurs in South Asia - affecting approximately 260 million people worldwide.
Three candidates for ECR chairman
28th February 2011 - Three candidates for ECR chairman
Three candidates have submitted their nominations to be the next chairman of the European Conservatives and Reformists group in the European Parliament after current chairman Michal Kaminski MEP announced that he will stand down from the post.
EU Small Business Act: much done, much more to do
Brussels, 23rd February 2011 - As the European Commission today publishes its review of the Small Business Act (SBA), Malcolm Harbour MEP, chairman of the European Parliament's internal market committee, has said that the commission has delivered a strong agenda for small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) but the notion of 'think small first' still needs to be embedded in everything the EU and member states do.
Tannock - EU should implement a no-fly zone over Libya
Brussels, 22nd February 2011 - The EU and USA should consider imposing an emergency 'no-fly zone' over Libya in order to prevent the brutal regime from launching any further aerial attacks against his own people, Charles Tannock MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group foreign affairs spokesman, demanded.
Clamping down on Counterfeit Medicines in the EU
Strasbourg, 16th February 2011 - The falsification of medicines - a serious and growing problem across the EU - should be minimised by an EU directive passed by MEPs today according to Marina Yannakoudakis MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group shadow rapporteur on the proposal.
EU help for Egypt must be conditional on its respect for its peace treaty with Israel
Strasbourg, 16th February 2011 - The EU needs to appreciate the justified concerns of Israel that the current upheaval in Egypt could lead to another security concern on its border, Charles Tannock MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group foreign affairs spokesman, said today in a debate with EU commissioner Fule.
EU economy boosted by €1.6 billion, thanks to Korea free trade agreement
Strasbourg, 17th February 2011 - A Free Trade Agreement (FTA) passed by Euro-MPs today, steered through the parliament by Robert Sturdy MEP, will bring untold benefits to industries across the EU economy and to consumers.
Keeping the pressure on Mugabe
Strasbourg, 15th February 2011 - Geoffrey Van Orden MEP, who spearheads the European Parliament's campaign for freedom and democratic change in Zimbabwe, welcomed the Council's decision to maintain restrictions.
No to the Europeanisation of pensions
Strasbourg, 16 February 2011 - The age of retirement as well as the amount of pension should continue to be decided exclusively by the member states after MEPs rejected suggestions to further unify more social policy across Europe. MEPs were voting on their position on a commission green paper on European pension systems.
New rights for bus and coach passengers, but small businesses protected
Strasbourg, 15th February 2011 - Travellers on long bus and coach routes will receive new rights after the European Parliament passed a regulation today, but short routes will be partially exempted, Roberts Zile MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) group transport spokesman, and Ryszard Czarnecki MEP, ECR shadow rapporteur on the plans, said today.
More environmentally friendly vans, thanks to new EU law
Strasbourg, 15th February 2011 - An EU law laying down ambitious new emissions targets for light commercial vehicles (vans etc.), which has been steered through the parliament by Martin Callanan MEP, has been passed by MEPs in a vote this lunchtime.
European patent protection to become cheaper and easier
Strasbourg, 15th February 2011 - Protecting new innovations across much of the EU will soon be a great deal cheaper and easier after MEPs adopted proposals for a common European patent today, according to Sajjad Karim MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group legal affairs spokesman.
EU Services Market - Strong Promise but Weak Delivery
Strasbourg, 15th February 2011 - The European Parliament voted today on a report that demands further action to open the huge Services Market. Parliament has been focussing on the roll out of the Services Directive - a controversial measure that requires all EU Governments to remove restrictive barriers and promote market opportunities, especially to SMEs.
The European Conservative and Reformists Group conference entitled "The Consequences and Potential Hazards Arising from the Construction of the Nord Stream Gas Pipeline" - Szczecin, 22 February 2011.
Brussels, 10th february 2011 - On behalf of MEP Marek Gróbarczyk, The European Conservatives and Reformists would like to invite you to the conference entitled "The Consequences and Potential Hazards Arising from the Construction of the Nord Stream Gas Pipeline". The conference will be held in the building of the Radisson Blue hotel, 10 Rodła Square in Szczecin on the 22 February 2011.
Korea Free Trade Agreement moves close to reality
Brussels, 7th February 2011 - The adoption of the EU's new Free Trade Agreement with South Korea this afternoon takes it just one step away from being enacted, with a final assent vote of the European Parliament due next week in Strasbourg, Robert Sturdy MEP, the European Parliament's rapporteur on the agreement, said today.
Kirkhope : more freedom is the answer both at home and abroad
Brussels, 8th February 2011 - As other leaders of the European Parliament's political groups today called for 'more Europe', European Conservatives and Reformists group deputy chairman Timothy Kirkhope called for 'more freedom' as a solution to the problems both at home and abroad, during a debate with European Council President Herman Van Rompuy.
The President of the European Council was reporting back to an open session of the parliament's group leaders - the Conference of Presidents.
Mr Kirkhope said:
Does the EP Regulation 996_2010 give Poland the possibility of assistance from the European Union in the Smolensk disaster investigation ?
Brussels, 07.02.2011 - Due to many uncertainties and unanswered questions about the Smolensk plane crash, and due to the preservation of evidence by the Russian side, MEP Tomasz Poreba has submitted a written question to the Commission on possible involvement in the investigation of the EU, in particular of the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). The aim of this question is to determine whether the European Parliament and the Council (EU) Regulation no. 996/2010 is applicable by law in regards to the case mentioned.
ANOTHER armed robbery in the European Parliament: time for someone to get their act together
Brussels, 4th February 2011 - Once again this afternoon the European Parliament has been subjected to a robbery, believed to once again involve armed weapons. The Post Office was held-up at approximately 14.15 and two suspects were allowed to get away unchallenged.
National governments must not deny MEPs their right and duty to scrutinise EU development funds
Brussels, 3rd February 2011 - The European Parliament cannot carry out one of its main functions of scrutinising the use of EU funds for development and human rights projects if the Council of Ministers continues to deny them the powers to do so, Nirj Deva MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group spokesman on international development, said today.
Banana wars truce adopted by MEPs
Brussels, 3rd February 2011 - A deal which brings to an end a heated trade battle over bananas between the EU and Latin America has been endorsed by MEPs today.
Under the 2009 deal on banana import tariffs, the EU will gradually end its preferential treatment of banana exporters in African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) countries. In exchange, Latin American countries have agreed to drop their complaints against the EU at the WTO and not to seek further tariff cuts in the Doha round talks.
The ECR opposes new european taxes
Brussels, 2. February 2011 - A report calling for new european taxes, a "carbon-added tax" and eurobonds has been approved by the Economic and Monetary Affairs committee. According to ECR group shadow rapporteur Ivo Strejcek MEP, the ECR group was the only one to vote against and therefore to protect European taxpayers.
Tannock - stability and order, democracy and pluralism needed in Tunisia and Egypt
Brussels, 2nd February 2011 - Speaking in a debate today on Egypt and Tunisia in the European Parliament with Baroness Ashton, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Charles Tannock MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group foreign affairs spokesman, said: ...
EU passenger data proposals are necessary in the fight against terror
Brussels, 2nd February 2011 - Proposals presented today by the European Commission for an EU Passenger Name Record (PNR) system are welcome, particularly given reports that Al Qaeda is attempting to stockpile 'dirty' radioactive explosives, Timothy Kirkhope MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group justice and home affairs spokesman in the European Parliament, said today.
Tannock - EU member states must recognise independent South Sudan when it declares independence
Brussels, 2nd February 2011 - ECR Group foreign affairs spokesman Charles Tannock MEP, speaking today in a debate in the European Parliament, called on all EU member states to recognise South Sudan as a sovereign independent state when it declares independence on 9 July 2011.
Future Cohesion Policy in spotlight at the Fifth Cohesion Forum
Brussels, 1st February 2011 - EU Cohesion funds should be used for combating the crisis and the EU 2020 strategy, but they must also not neglect their core purpose of building economic capacity and infrastructure in poorer regions, Oldrich Vlasak MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group regional development spokesman said today at the closing of the fifth Cohesion Forum in Brussels.
Consumer Rights Directive moves into next phase
Brussels, 1st February 2011 - An EU directive that aims to give consumers greater certainty and protection when shopping online, thus encouraging further businesses to take advantage of the online Single Market, has reached a new phase today as the European Parliament's internal market committee adopted its report on the proposals.
Egypt - Our hearts hope for change whilst our heads worry about instability in the Middle East
Brussels, 31st January 2011 - European Conservatives and Reformists group chairman Michal Kaminski MEP and foreign affairs spokesman Charles Tannock MEP have said that the EU must take every effort to ensure the current situation in Egypt is not exploited by those who want to destabilise the region, which will have a major impact on our strategic interests and the security of Israel.
Performance check of services liberalisation: Commission raises the stakes
Brussels, 27th January 2011 - The European Commission report released today on implementing the Services Directive highlights significant progress in deregulating the European service market but shows there is still a long way to go.
Malcolm Harbour MEP, one of the leading advocates of the services directive welcomed Commission plans to get tough on errant Member States and implement high profile performance checks to put pressure on the laggards.
Fariñas detained, Edvard Kozusnik MEP calls for his release
Brussels, 27 January 2011 - Well-known Cuban dissident has been detained togehther with other activists as he tried to stop the eviction of a woman in the city of Santa Clara, the Associated Press informed today. Edvard Kozusnik MEP calls on the Cuban government to immediately release the prisoners.
Public procurement review welcome as it will offer new opportunities and reduce administrative burdens
Brussels, 27th January 2011 - The substantial resources of public authorities should be harnessed to develop new solutions to existing problems, and to provide new jobs in innovative sectors and support for small businesses, Malcolm Harbour MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group chairman of the European Parliament's internal market committee, said today. Public procurement accounts for more than 16 percent of the EU's GDP.
ECR foreign affairs spokesman calls for constructive engagement with Uzbekistan
Brussels, 24th January 2011 - Uzbekistan is a strategically important country that cannot be ignored by the EU purely on account of its authoritarian leadership and poor human rights record, Charles Tannock MEP, spokesman on foreign affairs for the ECR Group, said today as President Islam Karimov of Uzbekistan visited Brussels for high-level talks.
The EU must speak up for the rights of Christians in the world
Brussels, 19th January 2011 - On the initiative of MEPs from the European Conservatives and Reformists group - Ryszard Legutko, Tomasz Poreba, Konrad Szymanski and Peter Van Dalen - a plenary debate was held today on the situation of Christians in the world and religious freedom. The debate opened with a statement from the EU High Representative for Foreign Policy Catherine Ashton. Tomorrow, the EP will adopt a resolution on this issue.
Patients' rights now clearer thanks to cross-border healthcare directive
Strasbourg, 19th January 2011 - New EU-wide legislation adopted today on cross-border healthcare will give patients a clearer understanding of their rights and responsibilities to seek treatment abroad if there is an unacceptable delay at home, Milan Cabrnoch MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group shadow rapporteur on the proposal, said today.
Construction products vote should bring positive results for builders and Europe's construction industry
Strasbourg, 18th January 2011 - A new EU regulation requiring clear labelling of quality and of hazardous substances in construction products will both protect workers' health and safety and encourage the free movement of construction products around the EU, ECR members Emma McClarkin MEP and Malcolm Harbour MEP, said today.
EU must give Tunisia every assistance
Strasbourg, 18th January 2011 - On Monday evening, the European Parliament heard a statement from President Buzek on the ongoing situation in Tunisia, following the recent uprising there.
ECR MEP pleased with Commission Communication on Sport
Strasbourg 18th January 2011 - ECR MEP and European Conservatives and Reformists spokesperson for Sport, Emma McClarkin, today welcomed proposals by the European Commission to develop the European dimension in sport. Commissioner Vassiliou presented the long-awaited Communication on the future sport strategy, which included nine specific areas of interest, including anti-doping, the free movement of sportsmen and women, and the participation of women in sport.
Tannock- How much longer can Europe tolerate a Cuban-style dictatorial regime in Europe?
Brussels, 12th January 2011 - ECR Group spokesman on foreign affairs Charles Tannock MEP today called on the constitutional court of Belarus to annul the result of the country's recent presidential election so that the vote can be re-run under EU and OSCE joint observation and supervision.
Reducing health inequalities in the EU: report adopted
Brussels, 10th January 2011 - The European Parliament's Internal Market committee has adopted its position on a report on reducing health inequalities in the EU.
ECR member Emma McClarkin MEP has drafted the opinion which looks at a range of aspects, including healthcare accessibility, professional qualifications, pharmaceuticals and patient safety.
ECR group strongly condemns the brutal treatment of presidential candidates of the democratic opposition in Belarus.
Brussels, 22nd December 2010 - The ECR Group wishes to express its deepest concerns about the undemocratic way in which the presidential elections in Belarus were held on December 19th. The European Conservatives and Reformists refer in this context to the conclusions in the United States and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) who declare the elections as not meeting internationally accepted standards due to the lack of transparency in the electoral procedure.
Kaminski to people of Cuba: we are with you!
Strasbourg, 15th December 2010 - Cuban freedom campaigner Guillermo Farinas will today be represented by an empty chair in the European Parliament as he receives the EU's Sakharov Prize for freedom of thought. European Conservatives and Reformists group chairman Michal Kaminski MEP - who himself fought against the tyranny of the Communist regime in Poland - has sent a message of support to the people of Cuba.
EU Citizens' Initiative: Proof of pudding will be in the eating for Commission says Fox.
Strasbourg 15 December 2010 - The European Parliament today adopted a regulation that will enable a million EU citizens to request a new EU law from the European Commission: the European Citizens' Initiative.
Unedifying 2011 budget process draws to a close
Strasbourg, 15th December 2010 - The 2011 EU budget process has drawn to a close after the European Parliament today accepted the agreement with the Council of Ministers and adopted the budget.
Kirkhope: The EU needs economic reform, not more treaty navel-gazing
Strasbourg, 15th December 2010 - Strasbourg, 15th December 2010 -- As EU leaders prepare to meet in Brussels for the final European Council of the year, ECR Deputy Chairman Timothy Kirkhope MEP has called on them to focus their efforts at bolstering political will to reform their economies rather than triggering a new institutional debate about treaty changes.
EU anti-trafficking directive is much improved
Strasbourg, 14th December 2010 - An EU anti-trafficking directive adopted today by MEPs will help provide cross-border solutions to a life-destroying cross-border problem, Timothy Kirkhope MEP and Marina Yannakoudakis MEP, said today.
Nicholson gives cautious welcome to commission's milk proposals
Brussels, 9th December 2010 - ECR agriculture coordinator and European Parliament rapporteur (lead member) on the Dairy Package, James Nicholson MEP, has given a cautious welcome to proposals announced today by the European Commission to tackle the problems affecting the sector.
The long awaited proposals, finally unveiled in front of the European Parliament's agriculture committee have taken on board many of the recommendations of the High Level Milk Group, a body set up last year to examine the milk sector, to find ways to stabilise the market and to secure dairy farmers incomes.
EU MiFID review needs industry input
Brussels, 8th December 2010 - The European Commission's efforts to
bring the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID) up to date
with modern technology and the changing make-up of financial markets
require industry input to make them workable, Kay Swinburne MEP,
European Conservatives and Reformists group economics spokesman said
today following the launch of a commission consultation into the matter.
Vital importance of improved trade between Europe and India
Brussels, 8th December 2010 - The Europe-India Chamber of Commerce (EICC), which involves scores of businesses based in European countries and India, will be holding a major conference in the European Parliament, Brussels tomorrow (9 December) on the eve of the EU-India Summit.
Single EU telephone number for businesses should be delegated out
Brussels, 6th December 2010 - As the European Commission today launches a new consultation on a single EU-wide telephone number for businesses, Malcolm Harbour MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group chairman of the European Parliament's internal market committee, said that the plans will be more succesful if the commission delegates responsibility for it to a seperate organisation.
EU-India partnership vital to Europe's future, says Charles Tannock MEP
Brussels, 7 December 2010 - The strategic partnership between the European Union and India is vital to Europe's future prosperity and security, Dr Charles Tannock MEP said today ahead of the forthcoming EU-India summit in Brussels.
Dr Tannock, coordinator for the European Conservatives and Reformists Group on the European Parliament's Committee on Foreign Affairs, said the summit presented a chance for the EU and India to reaffirm their alliance based on shared values of democracy, liberty and human rights.
Enigma in the European Parliament
Brussels, 7 December 2010 - The exhibition dedicated to the role of Polish cryptologists in breaking the Enigma code was opened in the European Parliament. It was organised by Mr. Konrad Szymański MEP and the Marshal of the Wielkopolskie Voivodship Marek Woźniak.
Deva - At all costs we must avoid a war in the Ivory Coast
Brazzaville, 6th December 2010 - This morning Nirj Deva MEP, Vice-President of the European Parliament's Development Committee, had the opportunity to speak to the newly-elected Prime Minister of the Ivory Coast, Mr Soro, at his besieged hotel in Abidjan. Mr Deva asked the Prime Minister of the new President Ouattara what he could do to help, to which the Prime Minister said that the lives of the newly-elected government were at risk and further UN forces were needed to guard them from a possible attack from the troops of the former President.
Support for reducing red tape on Europe's shipping industry
Brussels, 30th November 2010 - ECR MEP for the Netherlands and Vice-Chairman of the European Parliament's transport committee, Peter Van Dalen MEP, has welcomed the European Commission's new 'blue belt' pilot project launched today.
Time to get back to basics on regional funding
30th November 2010 - Proposals to reform EU funds for poorer regions might come far too late for the many areas that are already struggling with the excessive bureaucracy, poor focus on economic results and inability to match-fund, Oldrich Vlasak MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group Regional Development spokesman, said today after the Financial Times revealed that only 10 percent of EU funds had been spent.
EU Citizens' Initiative must be a grassroots tool
Brussels, 30th November 2010 - The European Parliament's Constitutional Affairs committee today adopted a regulation that will enable a million EU citizens to request a new EU law from the European Commission: the European Citizens' Initiative. European Conservatives and Reformists group spokesman on the committee, Ashley Fox MEP, received support for several ECR amendments to the proposals, which aim to ensure that it is a grassroots tool, rather than one for interest groups to advance their own agendas.
Charles Tannock MEP hails EU decision to allow visa-free travel for Taiwanese citizens
BRUSSELS, 25 November 2010 - Dr Tannock was speaking after the Council approved the measure. The European Parliament gave its backing to visa-free travel for Taiwanese citizens on 11 November.
Brinksmanship on the European budget is unacceptable, ECR says
Strasbourg, 25th November 2010 - The indication from the leaders of the political groups in the European Parliament that they intend to further entrench themselves against the Council of Ministers regarding the 2011 budget negotiations is only going to result in the people of Europe suffering, Lajos Bokros MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group budgets spokesman, said today.
Yet again, Mugabe on his travels abroad, courtesy of the EU
Strasbourg, 25th November 2010 - On Monday 29th November, President Mugabe of Zimbabwe will be attending an EU-Africa Summit in Libya. Ironically, amongst the issues to be discussed will be 'good governance'. Speaking in the European Parliament last night (24th November), Conservative MEP Geoffrey Van Orden expressed his dismay at Mugabe's presence and at the EU's failure to do more to encourage democracy and the rule of law in Africa.
European Parliament: Unanimous condemnation of insults directed at Martin Schulz
Strasbourg, 24th November 2010 - The leaders of the political groups in the European Parliament (EPP, ALDE, Greens/EFA, ECR and GUE/NGL) firmly condemn the insulting remarks directed at Martin Schulz, leader of the Socialist Group, this morning by a Member of the UK Independence Party during Parliament's plenary session in Strasbourg.
ECR MEPs question pressure on Rzeczpospolita editor
Brussels, 24th November 2010 - Three ECR MEPs have sent a written question to the European Commission regarding the political pressure of the government of Donald Tusk on the "Rzeczpospolita" daily (reported by The Economist) in order to force its editor-in-chief, Paweł Lisicki, to fire him or to make him quit.
Aung San Suu Kyi invited to European Parliament
Brussels 18 November 2010 - Geoffrey Van Orden MEP, who has initiated many resolutions on Burma in Parliament in recent years, called on Parliament to invite Aung San Suu Kyi to address its plenary. He also asked for her to be officially presented with the Sakharov prize she was awarded by Parliament in 1990.
Commission "hedging their bets on CAP reform"
Brussels 18th November 2010 - Jim Nicholson, ECR Spokesman for Agriculture, has accused the European Commission of "hedging their bets" as Commissioner Dacian Ciolos finally unveiled the long awaited "Communication on the future of the Common Agricultural Policy(CAP)"
MEPs should understand why EU governments are unwilling to make long-term commitments on EU budget
Brussels, 16th November 2010 - Following the breakdown of talks over the 2011 EU budget last night, European Conservatives and Reformists Group budgets spokesman Lajos Bokros MEP has called on MEPs to understand why national governments are unwilling to make long-term commitments on financing at a time when they are facing extremely tough decisions regarding national deficits and the Eurozone crisis.
Tannock congratulates Montenegro on progress towards EU membership
Brussels, 12th November 2010 - Negotiations should not be unduly delayed, says Parliament rapporteur
The European Parliament's rapporteur for Montenegro, Dr Charles Tannock MEP, has congratulated the government of Montenegro after the European Commission gave a positive assessment of the country's suitability to become a candidate for EU membership.
EU Hedge Funds rules pass final hurdle
Brussels, 11th November 2010 - The European Parliament's adoption of the Alternative Investment Fund Managers (AIFM) Directive signals the end of a long process of making a more workable and practical law than originally proposed, Syed Kamall MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group lead member on the directive, said today.
EU energy strategy sets noble ambitions for medium-term energy challenges
Brussels, 10th November 2010 - The European Commission's communication on energy supply in the medium-term - Energy 2020 - sets out noble priorities for energy efficiency, new infrastructure and new technologies that will assist in creating a competitive, sustainable and secure supply, Giles Chichester MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group energy spokesman, said today.
New PNR agreement will safeguard lives, liberties and the EU's relations with the USA
Brussels, 10th November 2010 - The upcoming Passenger Name Records Agreements with the U.S., Canada, and Australia were today debated by MEPs in the European Parliament. These new agreements, which set a framework the transfer of information to the USA, will safeguard both lives and liberties, Timothy Kirkhope MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group home affairs spokesman, said today.
Trading in Financial Instruments: European Parliament dark pools report adopted
Brussels, 9th November 2010 - The European Parliament's economics committee today adopted a report by European Conservatives and Reformists economics spokesman Kay Swinburne MEP into regulation of trading in financial instruments such as 'dark pools'.
New EU trade agenda must signal an end to Fortress Europe
Brussels, 9th November 2010 - The EU needs to put in place a clear, transparent and open trading policy that will no longer allow deals to be hatched behind closed doors based on parochial interests, Robert Sturdy MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group international trade spokesman said today after the Commission published a new agenda for future trade policy.
EU Auditors report: two steps forward, one step back
Brussels, 9th November 2010 - The publication of the EU Court of Auditors report this morning shows that while the EU has taken steps forward in improving financial management, there are still far too many areas of material error, Ryszard Czarnecki MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group spokesman on budgetary control, said today.
Migration and drugs : Main priorities of the EU-Latin-American strategic partnership
3.-5th November 2010, Cuenca, Ecuador - Hundreds of politicians gathered on permanent committees of the EU-Latin American Assembly (EUROLAT) which is formed by MEPs and its counterparts from Latin America. On the top of the agenda were following topics: migration flows, the fight against narco-trafficking and organised crime, environmental issues and perspectives on future economic relations.
MEP Kurski questions old 70's EU rules on fuel consumption rates advertised by car manufacturers
Brussels, 3rd November 2010 - The official measurement cycles, as set out in Directive 93/116/EC were challenged by MEP Jacek Kurski as they do not reflect cars' actual fuel consumption rates and favour hybrid cars by falsely understating their fuel consumption rates.
MEP Van Dalen concerned about human rights in Northeast India
Brussels, 2nd November 2010 - Peter van Dalen is concerned about the situation in Northeast India. In this remote area, bordering China, Bangladesh and Myanmar, a military emergency rule has dominated daily life for decades.
Single Market Act: many positive proposals but bolder action required
Brussels, 27th October 2010 - The Single Market Act (SMA) consultation document and the EU citizenship report published by the Commissioners Barnier and Reding today contain many positive provisions, but overall the European Commission is not as bold as it should be, Malcolm Harbour MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group chairman of the parliament's internal market committee, said today.
Cross-border healthcare: more freedom and rights for patients
Brussels, 27th October 2010 - A report adopted today by the environmental and health committee of the European Parliament will secure more rights and freedom for patients who opt for medical treatment in another European country.
Agreement reached on Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive
Brussels, 26th October 2010 - Commenting on the deal reached today between the European Commission, Parliament and Council on the Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive (the so-called hedge funds and private equity directive), Syed Kamall MEP, Conservative MEP for London and European Conservatives and Reformists group chief negotiator on the directive, said: "We have come a long way since April 2009 on the Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive (AIFMD). The Commission's initial draft was a very wrinkly shirt, and we have managed to iron out many of the wrinkles."
Cuban dissident Guillermo Fariñas awarded the European Parliament's 2010 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought
Strasbourg, 21.10.2010 - The Conference of Presidents decided today to award the Cuban dissident Guillermo Farinas with the European Parliament's 2010 Sakharov Prize. Mr Farinas was nominated by the European Peoples Party and the European Conservatives and Reformists Group led by Michał Kamiński.
European Parliament honours anti-Castro campaigner
Strasbourg, 21st October 2010 - The European Parliament has sent a clear message today by choosing Cuban dissident Guillermo Farinas to receive its annual Sakharov Prize for freedom of thought.
ECR MEP Edvard Kožušník co-nominated Mr Farinas alongside 91 other MEPs. He was also nominated by the ECR and EPP groups. Today's meeting of political group leaders decided to award him the prize.
Mugabe’s continuing stranglehold on Zimbabwe
Strasbourg, 21st October 2010 - Today, the European Parliament will pass a resolution condemning the Zimbabwean authorities for their planned forced evictions of citizens from a settlement at Hatcliffe on the outskirts of Harare. These same people are only just recovering from the previous round of violent, Mugabe-instigated forced evictions in 2005 ('Operation Murambatsvina'). The Parliament is also calling on South Africa and SADC to put greater pressure on Mugabe, who remains a continuing stumbling block to a prosperous and democratic Zimbabwe.
MEPs' economic crisis response paper represents centre-right views
Strasbourg, 20th October 2010 - A report adopted by the European Parliament this morning into the financial, economic and social crisis across the European Union over the last two years has been amended to reflect a centre-right consensus rather than a socialist wish-list, Roberts Zile MEP and Kay Swinburne MEP of the European Conservatives and Reformists group said today.
EU budget does not reflect the times in which we live
Strasbourg, 20th October 2010 - The position taken by the European Parliament today regarding the 2011 EU budget is a poor reflection of the austerity period that many EU states are going through, Lajos Bokros MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group budgets coordinator, said today.
EU proposals for 20 weeks fully paid maternity leave adopted
Strasbourg, 20th October 2010 - Plans are bad for women and businesses
Strasbourg, 20th October 2010 -- The European Parliament has voted today to force women to take 20 weeks of maternity leave on full pay - by the slimmest of margins.
Kaminski statement on shooting at Law and Justice office in Lodz
Strasbourg, 19th October 2010 - European Conservatives and Reformists group chairman Michal Kaminski MEP has today condemned the killing of two people at a Law and Justice Party office in Lodz, Poland.
Misguided - maternity proposals must not be backed by MEPs
Strasbourg, 19th October 2010 - Conservative MEP Marina Yannakoudakis, who has led opposition to proposals that would give women 20 weeks of maternity leave on full pay, has called on MEPs to realise the consequences of the proposals and to oppose them in a vote tomorrow.
Kaminski raises Georgia Ukraine and West Russian relations with US Secretary of State
Brussels, 14th October 2010 - US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton was in Brussels today following a brief tour of the Balkans and she visited the European Parliament for talks with the leaders of the political groups, including European Conservatives and Reformists chairman Michal Kaminski MEP.
Adam Bielan took part in the European Parliament’s Delegation to Moldova and Transnistria
Brussels, 13.10.2010 - Adam Bielan, ECR Vice-Chairman and shadow rapporteur for Moldova, joined four other MEPs in the European Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs Delegation to Chisinau and Tiraspol (11-12 October 2010). During its visit, the EP Delegation met with EU officials, NGOs, media representatives, and members of the Moldovan government and opposition in order to assess the country’s political, economic and social situation in context of Moldova’s upcoming elections.
ECR group supports a renaissance of the nuclear energy sector
Brussels, 12th October 2010 - The ECR group's founding policy document - The Prague Declaration - commits the group to a 'Sustainable, clean energy supply with an emphasis on energy security'. And no other form of energy best fits the bill than nuclear energy, Giles Chichester MEP, ECR industry and energy spokesman, told a hearing in the European Parliament today.
Julie Girling MEP Campaigns to Save Population of Bees in Europe
Brussels, 12th October 2010 - South West MEP Julie Girling has taken her campaign to Save Bees to the European Parliament, tabling a question to the European Commission regarding the plight of our humble bumble and honey bee.
Michał Kamiński asks the European Commission for clear guidelines regarding energy security
Brussels, 11th October 2010 - Brussels, 11th October 2010 -- The Chairman of the European Conservatives and Reformists Group in the European Parliament Michał Kamiński MEP has submitted a written question concerning energy security and the Polish-Russian natural gas deal, which is being criticised by the European Commission for undermining the energy security of the EU.
Conservative MEP launches campaign to save taxpayers 15 Million Euro by combining Strasbourg sessions
Brussels 7 October 2010 - Conservative MEP Ashley Fox this morning launched his bid to save taxpayers 15 Million Euro and save the environment from 1600 tonnes of needless carbon dioxide. Mr Fox wants to combine the two Strasbourg plenary sessions scheduled for September 2012 into one.
EU Financial Transaction Tax kicked into touch - for now
Brussels, 7th October 2010 - The announcement by the European Commission that a Financial Transaction Tax (FTT) should not be introduced unilaterally at EU level has been strongly welcomed today by Kay Swinburne MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group economic and monetary affairs spokesman in the European Parliament.
Zile: Current coalition Government in Latvia likely to remain in power
Brussels, 7th OCtober 2010 - Parliamentary elections results in Latvia reveal that support for the current coalition Government will be extended for the next four years as governing parties have gained 63 seats in the 100-seat Parliament.
Innovation must be top European priority
Brussels, 6th October 2010 - Commission initiative on innovative public markets especially welcomed
Brussels, 6th October 2010 -- The European Commissioner for Research and Innovation, Máire Geoghegan-Quinn, has today launched a raft of new proposals to give innovation across the EU a major boost.
European Parliament takes action to promote Religious freedom
Brussels, 5th October 2010 - Religious freedom must be incorporated into the European External Policies of the EU, by adding to Agreements with Third Countries a binding clause on the respect of freedom of religion. This is the main demand of a Written Declaration presented today by Mario Mauro MEP (EPP Group) and Konrad Szymanski MEP (ECR Group). The initiative was launched today on the occasion of a conference on “Persecution of christians”, which was organised by the two Groups and COMECE (Commission of the Catholic Bishops’ Conferences in the EU).
Hungarian Prime Minister Victor Orban met with ECR Chairman Michał Kamiński
Brussels, 4th October 2010 - Victor Orban, the Prime Minister of Hungary, held a meeting today with the Chairman of the European Conservatives and Reformists Group Michał Kamiński.
Georgia awards Michal Kaminski with the Medal of Excellence
Brussels, 3rd October 2010 - On Saturday (1st October) in Tbilisi, the Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili awarded Michal Kaminski , the Chairman of the European Conservatives and Reformists Group, with the Medal of Excellence.
Brussels: International seminar on persecution against Christians
Brussels, 30th September 2010 - On 5 October in the European Parliament guests from Sudan, India, Vietnam and Iraq will discuss the topic of persecution of Christians around the world. There will be expert reports presented by organisations from Germany, the Netherlands and the USA.
Harbour wins MEP award
Brussels, 30th September 2010 - ECR member and chairman of the parliament's Internal Market & Consumer Protection committee has been chosen by his peers as the 'MEP of the Year', in the internal market category.
European standards must help both business and consumers
Brussels, 29th September 2010 - ECR member Edvard Kozusnik MEP´s report on the future of European Standardisation was adopted by the internal market committee. The report highlights the importance of setting technical standards for the functionning of the EU´s Single Market. Mr Kozusnik wants to see standardisation cutting the red tape, supporting innoavtion and free trade.
South African President Zuma pressed on Zimbabwe in European parliament
Brussels 29 September 2010 - President Jacob Zuma of South Africa addressed the European Parliament's Foreign Affairs committee today. Many MEPs raised the subject of Zimbabwe. Geoffrey Van Orden MEP, who spearheads the parliament's campaign for freedom and democratic change in Zimbabwe, urged President Zuma to do more to resolve the ongoing political turmoil in Zimbabwe.
Commemorating the Role of Polish and Czech pilots in the Battle of Britain
Brussels, 28th September 2010 - The 70th Anniversary of the Battle of Britain, particularly the role of Polish and Czech pilots alongside the RAF, was commemorated yesterday in the European Parliament. Conservative MEP Geoffrey Van Orden, along with Pawel Kowal MEP from Poland and Ivo Strejcek MEP from the Czech Republic, organised the event on behalf of the ECR Group.
ECR group makes three nominations for Sakharov human rights award
Strasbourg, 23rd September 2010 - The European Conservatives and Reformists group has made three nominations for the 2010 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought.
The nominees are Guillermo Farinas, a Cuban doctor and journalists and political dissident, Father Thadeus Nguyen Van Ly, a Vietnamese priest and non-violent human rights activist, and Open Doors, a non-denominational Christian mission supporting persecuted Christians in countries where they are the religious minority.
The EU needs a new trading relationship with Pakistan
Strasbourg, 22nd September 2010 - Speaking this morning in a debate with Herman Van Rompuy, President of the European Council, European Conservatives and Reformists group deputy chairman Timothy Kirkhope MEP called for a permanent new trading relationship between the EU and Pakistan after EU heads of government last week agreed time-limited reductions in trade barriers.
EU Financial supervision package keeps national supervisors in the front line
Strasbourg, 22nd September 2010 - Rules passed today which create three new European Supervisory Authorities (ESAs) and a European Systemic Risk Board (ESRB) keep national regulators at the fore whilst ensuring a common rule book to prevent future economic crises, Kay Swinburne MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group economics spokesman, said today.
The package's adoption ends 18 months of negotiations that stemmed from the De Larosiere report prepared for the commission in 2009.
Reding's gender strategy gets the balance more or less right
Strasbourg, 21st September 2010 - EU Commissioner Reding has today published a new gender equality strategy which Marina Yannakoudakis MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group women's spokesman, hopes will assist national governments in achieving the crucial goal of improving equality without adding layers of bureaucracy or new EU legislation.
The new commission strategy sets out a series of commission priorities based around the priorities of the labour market, equal pay, equality in senior positions, tackling gender violence and promoting equality beyond the EU.
Commission's broadband proposals are a net gain for consumers
Strasbourg, 20th September 2010 - Plans put forward by the European Commission to speed up the delivery of broadband to homes and businesses across the EU have been welcomed by European Conservatives and Reformists group members Malcolm Harbour, Adam Bielan and Giles Chichester.
Szymanski - New energy regulation ensures that gas is a commodity, not a weapon
Strasbourg, 21st September 2010 - The European Parliament's adoption today of a new regulation on Security of Gas Supply must signal an end to indifference in the EU towards the use of gas as a political tool, Konrad Szymanski MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group shadow rapporteur, said.
The new law comes off the back of the 2008 and 2009 Russian supply crises. It sets out clear legal rules to encourage EU-wide cooperation and interconnection requirements that are aimed at preventing a future crisis, and to manage it if one should occur.
Pawel Kowal MEP: "Mr Zakajew is a conciliatory politician"
17th September 2010 - "I am wondering why the Polish administration of justice is repeating the same mistakes that Denmark and Great Britain have committed" - Pawel Kowal MEP said in reaction to the arrest of Ahmed Zakayev, who is the current Prime Minister of the unrecognised Chechen Republic of Ichkeria (ChRI). "It is even more surprising as Mr Zakayev was on his way to the prosecutor's office for a hearing" - added Mr Kowal.
PMs Necas and Cameron meet before EU summit
16th September 2010, Brussels - The European Conservatives and Reformists group's two Prime Ministers, Petr Necas of the Czech Republic and David Cameron of the UK, both met for breakfast this morning ahead of the European Council meeting. They were accompanied by ECR Presidency members Timothy Kirkhope and Jan Zahradil, and senior Czech member Ivo Strejcek.
Korea Free Trade Agreement adopted by EU governments
Brussels, 16th September 2010 - The adoption today of the EU's Free Trade Agreement with South Korea will create thousands of jobs and add billions of Euros to both sides' economies, Robert Sturdy MEP, the European Parliament's rapporteur on the agreement, said today.
Italy today decided to drop its objections to the agreement, in exchange for a six month delay in the agreement's implementation until July 2011.
Airbus and Boeing: time for talks to replace recriminations
15th September 2010 - The World Trade Organisation's (WTO) expected rebuke of Boeing today should bring about a new spirit of cooperation between Airbus and the American manufacturer, instead of yet more Transatlantic recriminations, Robert Sturdy MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group trade spokesman in the European Parliament, said today.
Welcome for EU derivatives proposals
Brussels, 15th September 2010 - Today the European Commission released proposals to reform and regulate derivatives, short selling and Credit Default Swaps.
European Conservatives and Reformists group economics spokesman in the European Parliament, and British MEP, Kay Swinburne commented:
"These proposals should be welcomed as they will provide greater transparency which will help make the financial markets safer and more stable."
Parliament stops Iran Delegation visit
Brussels, 10th September 2010 - A proposed European Parliament visit to Iran has been blocked following an intervention by Conservative MEP Geoffrey Van Orden. Thursday's (9 September) Conference of President's meeting decided to suspend a proposed Parliamentary Delegation visit to Tehran.
Mr Van Orden, a long-standing member of the Foreign Affairs Committee and who sits on the Iran delegation, highlighted the sentence of death by stoning imposed on Sakineh Ashtiani in objecting to the proposed visit.
Further delays or obstacles to EU-South Korea trade deal are unacceptable, Parliament's lead member says
Brussels, 10th September 2010 - The European Parliament's rapporteur (lead member) on the historic EU-South Korea Free Trade Agreement has hit out today after the Italian government has threatened to stall the agreement.
Robert Sturdy MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group international trade spokesman, said that any delays to the deal would give the USA time to renegotiate its KORUS FTA deal with Korea, effectively leaving the EU at a massive disadvantage.
David Liddington, the UK's Conservative Party Europe Minister, addressed the ECR Group meeting in Strasbourg on 7 September
Strasbourg, 8th September 2010 - Praising the work achieved by the ECR since its inception a little over a year ago, the Minister congratulated the efforts of the ECR members, in particular the Czech members for the recent ODS victory in parliamentary elections.
ECR group welcomes EU's response to Pakistan floods
Strasbourg 8th September 2010 - In a debate with EU Crisis Response Commissioner Georgieva on the Pakistan floods, European Conservatives and Reformists group members welcomed the EU's response to the Pakistani tragedy but called on the European Commission to ensure that the money does not go to corrupt officials, and that it does not discriminate against Christians or other minorities in the country.
Momentum building for historic Korea trade deal
Strasbourg, 7th September 2010 - Another crucial step has been taken towards the ratification of an historic free trade deal between the EU and Korea today, Robert Sturdy MEP, the parliament's rapporteur on the agreement, said today.
MEPs want yet more money spent on propaganda
Strasbourg, 7th September 2010 - A report passed by MEPs today on new media has been hijacked to lament the poor coverage of the EU institutions and call for yet more money for EU propaganda, Emma McClarkin MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group culture committee spokesman, warned today.
President Barroso gets his State of the Union half right
Strasbourg, 7th September 2010 - Responding to European Commission President Barroso's 'State of the Union' speech and the subsequent debate in the European Parliament today, European Conservatives and Reformists group chairman Michal Kaminski MEP said:
EU effort in Pakistan needs years of commitment once the floods have receded
Brussels, 31st August 2010 - The European Parliament today met with EU Crisis Response Commissioner Kristalina Georgieva to discuss the Pakistan floods. ECR MEP Sajjad Karim, chairman of the parliament's Friends of Pakistan group, called on the commission to give a sustained commitment to Pakistan to assist with the recovery.
EU plans for criminal rights information must not lead to harmonisation
Brussels, 20th July 2010 - Plans published by the European Commission, which ensure that accused people have access to information regarding their rights, will be useful for Britons travelling abroad,Timothy Kirkhope MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group justice and home affairs spokesman, said today. However, he warned that they must not be a smokescreen for harmonisation of criminal systems.
Europe Must Reward Smarter Behaviour of Cities
Brussels, 13th July 2010 - Cities are critical and necessary for achieving EU objectives on a wide range of issues and this must be reflected in EU policy and funding, a seminar organised by ECR member Oldřich Vlasák determined this week.
Chavez's popularity with the left hides his worrying trend towards totalitarianism
Strasbourg, 8th July 2010 - Hugo Chavez is being allowed to escape the condemnation he deserves because of support from left-wing politicians, European Conservatives and Reformists group foreign affairs spokesman Charles Tannock has said today. The parliament has today adopted a resolution authored by the centre-right EPP and ECR groups, which the socialist group would not sign.
Belgian Prime Minister risks becoming a missionary without a mission
Strasbourg, 7th July 2010 - The Belgian Presidency's focus on 'More Europe' as the solution to the Eurozone problem risks creating a Tower of Babel effect, Derk Jan Eppink MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists bureau member from Belgium, said today.
He made his remarks during a European Parliament debate with the Belgian Prime Minister Yves Leterme, whose country has assumed the rotating Presidency of the Council of Ministers.
New Swift agreement will protect lives and liberties
Strasbourg, 8th July 2010 - The new Terrorist Finance Tracking Programme with the USA - finally passed by MEPs - will safeguard both lives and liberties, Timothy Kirkhope MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group home affairs spokesman, said today.
EU External Action Service: ECR group will engage constructively
Strasbourg, 6th July 2010 - Strasbourg, 6th July 2010 -- The European Conservatives and Reformists group in the European Parliament was not initially supportive of the creation of an EU External Action Service but it will now engage constructively in the new architecture, Charles Tannock MEP, ECR foreign affairs spokesman in the European Parliament will say later today. The parliament will debate the service this afternoon, ahead of a vote tomorrow morning.
Abuse of Zimbabwe's Diamond Workers
Strasbourg, 7th July 2010 - The abuse of workers in the diamond fields of Zimbabwe and the failure of international bodies to take action has now come to the attention of the European Parliament.
Proof that going international is good for business
Strasbourg, 6th July 2010 - Strasbourg, 6th July 2010 -- Further proof of the need for a revitalisation of the EU's Single Market came today as the European Commission published statistics showing that small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) who engage in international activities saw massive growth figures, Malcolm Harbour MEP, Chairman of the European Parliament's internal market committee, said today.
SWIFT agreement's approval will improve the fight against terrorism on both sides of the Atlantic
Strasbourg, 5th July 2010 - The Terrorist Finance Tracking Programme (AKA the SWIFT agreement), a crucial counter-terrorism agreement between the EU and USA, should finally be approved by MEPs this week after the European Parliament's civil liberties committee overwhelmingly supported the deal this evening.
EU Research Proposals Put Science at The Heart of the EU's Economic Goals
Brussels, 2 July 2010 - The European Commission's research arm has been placed firmly at the centre of the EU's economic regeneration thanks to a new strategy for the Joint Research Centre (JRC) published today, Speaking at the JRCs major research centre, Malcolm Harbour MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group internal market and consumer protection committee chairman ,welcomed the new plans.
Peaceful presidential election in Somaliland compels a positive response from the international community
Brussels, 2nd July 2010 - Charles Tannock MEP endorses comments by UK government minister and EU diplomats on breakaway region's vote
Votewatch report confirms the ECR as a dynamic-altering force in the European Parliament
Brussels, 30th June 2010 - Brussels, 30th June 2010 -- The first annual report of Votewatch.eu - a body set up to monitor votes in the European Parliament - has shown that the European Conservatives and Reformists group has enabled a centre-right coalition to be formed, pushing the socialists into obscurity on economic, trade and energy matters.
Van Rompuy at ECR group: "it's the economy stupid, but not just the economy"
Brussels, 29th June 2010 - European Council President Herman Van Rompuy today joined the European Conservatives and Reformists group for an exchange of views on subjects ranging from the EU's 2020 economic strategy to European economic governance, from national debt to the EU budget.
WTO ruling against Airbus confirms that European reimbursable loans are a legal instrument for partnership between government and industry
Brussels, 30th June 2010 - The USA needs to negotiate an agreement with the EU which enables both sides to continue operating a public-private partnership for Boeing and Airbus but on a level playing field for both manufacturers, Robert Sturdy MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group international tradespokesman, said today.
EU set to agree banker bonuses and capital requirements proposals
Brussels, 30th June 2010 - Proposals reward risk-taking but remove recklessness
Brussels, 30th June 2010 -- The EU is set to approve the revised Capital Requirements Directive after MEPs reached agreement with the Council of Ministers today, Vicky Ford MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group shadow rapporteur on the proposals said.
ECR asks EU commission to come up with a new proposal concerning self-employed drivers
Brussels, 29th June 2010 - Brussels, 29th June 2010 -- The ECR group has today written to the European Commission asking to come up with a new proposal based on exception of self-employed drivers in the Working Time Directive.
The SWIFT Agreement Adopted
Brussels, 28th June 2010 - Brussels 28 June 2010. The Terrorist Finance Tracking Programme (TFTP) with the USA was today adopted by the Council in a written procedure. The agreement will now be sent to the European Parliament which needs to give its consent by a majority of its members before the agreement can be concluded and enter into force.
European Standardisation must serve the internal market
Brussels, 23th June 2010 - On 23rd June, the Internal Market and Consumer Protection Committee will hold a public hearing in the European Parliament to discuss the future of European standardisation.
Historic EU-Korea Free Trade Agreement gets strong show of support
Brussels, 23rd June 2010 - Brussels, 23rd June 2010 -- The European Parliament's lead member on a key Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Korea - Robert Sturdy MEP - has welcomed a 'strong show of support' in the international trade committee for the deal.
Realistic emissions standards needed for light commercial vehicles
Brussels, 22nd June 2010 - New emissions standards for light commercial vehicles (LCVs) - passed through the European Parliament's transport committee today - need to be realistic if the industry is to deliver them in the current economic climate, Oldrich Vlasak MEP, the draftsman of the committee's opinion, said today.
ECR group leader meets David Cameron before EU summit
Brussels, 17th June 2010 - European Conservatives and Reformists Chairman Michal Kaminski met British Prime Minister David Cameron this morning for a pre-meeting ahead of the European Council in Brussels.
MEPs vote to tie up self-employed drivers in unnecessary red tape
Strasbourg, 16th June 2010 - The European Parliament has thrown common sense to the wind and voted to tie up self-employed drivers in additional red tape that will have no clear safety benefits, Milan Cabrnoch MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group employment spokesman said today.
EU-USA counter-terrorism agreement should be approved swiftly
Strasbourg, 15th June 2010 - The new Terrorist Finance Tracking Programme with the USA - published today - meets almost all of the European Parliament's concerns, Timothy Kirkhope MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group home affairs spokesman said today. He called on MEPs to use their powers responsibly to put the agreement in place as soon as possible, in order to end the current data gap in the fight against terrorism.
Biofuels: Second Generation is the key to their future - ECR Coordinator Jim Nicholson MEP
Brussels, 8th June 2010 - Moves to shore up the EU's biofuels policy announced today by the European Commission have been broadly welcomed by European Conservatives and Reformists group agriculture spokesman James Nicholson MEP. However, he argued that they should focus more on the positive potential of second generation biofuels rather than tailoring a policy around less sustainable first generation fuels.
European Commission proposals on short selling of financial instruments are a good place to start, ECR says
Strasbourg, 14th June 2010 - The European Commission's publication of potential future proposals on short selling and specifically on credit default swaps are a good place to start the debate, European Conservatives and Reformists group economic spokesman Kay Swinburne MEP said today.
The current crisis must not be an opportunity for increasing EU powers over national budgets
Strasbourg, 15th June 2010 - The European Conservatives and Reformists group will not sign a European Parliament resolution that calls for the EU to significantly increase its powers over national budgets, Timothy Kirkhope MEP, ECR deputy chairman, said today.
New EU vocational education and training proposals given B+ by ECR
Brussels, 9th June 2010 - Proposals published today by the European Commission to encourage the uptake of vocational education and training are generally welcome and recognise the role that the EU can play in facilitating cooperation, Emma McClarkin MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group coordinator on education, said today.
ECR welcomes Czech President's invitation to Petr Necas
4th June 2010 - The European Conservatives and Reformists group in the European Parliament (ECR) has welcomed Czech President Vaclav Klaus's invitation to Petr Necas - leader of ECR member party the Civic Democrats - to try to form a government over the coming fortnight.
Ratings Agencies: No simple answers to preventing another sovereign debt crisis
3rd June 2010 - Credit ratings agencies have made mistakes and should be subject to greater transparency, however they should not be held responsible for the banking or Eurozone crisis, Kay Swinburne MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group economic and monetary affairs coordinator in the European Parliament, said today.
EU Derivatives vote should not prevent companies of all sizes from managing their risks
Brussels, 2nd June 2010 - Today, the European Parliament's Economic and Monetary Affairs committee voted on their report into reforms that are necessary in Over-The-Counter Derivative markets.
Edvard Kožušník: Internal market is still strangled by regulation
Malta, 1st June 2010 - Only 25 years have passed since the moment Jacques Delors presented his White Book of the internal market. The idea remains unfulfilled, Edvard Kožušník MEP told the 6th CEN - CENELEC Annual Meeting in Malta.
New motor vehicle block exemption rules: Good for independent repairers but possible problems for car dealers
Brussels, 1st June 2010 - A new 'Block Exemption regulation' for the motor vehicle industry - which comes into force today - offers greater choice in the after sales repair and servicing market. However, further changes proposed for the primary sales market will shift power away from local dealers, many of whom are small businesses, Malcolm Harbour MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists chairman of the European Parliament's internal market committee, warned today
Statement on the seizure of the Gaza flotilla by the Israeli Defence Force
Brussels, 31st May 2010 - The European Conservatives and Reformists Group in the European Parliament deeply regrets the casualties including fatalities which resulted from the Israeli military interception of a flotilla of ships led by the Turkish Islamic humanitarian organisation Insani yardim vafki ("humanitarian relief fund" or IHH in German), Charles Tannock MEP, ECR foreign affairs coordinator in the European Parliament, said today.
EU must offer central Europe its solidarity over floods
Brussels, 21st May 2010 - The EU has an important role to play in response to the flooding in Central European countries, Michal Kaminski MEP, Chairman of the European Conservatives and Reformists group in the parliament said today.
European Parliament budget needs to be made more efficient, not increased
Strasbourg, 19th May 2010 - The European Parliament's spending needs to be made more effective and efficient - not increased - in order to cope with the extra responsibilities placed upon it by the Lisbon Treaty, Lajos Bokros MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group spokesman on the parliament's Budgets committee, said today.
ECR meeting with Mr Anatoly Lebedko, Chairman of the United Civil Party of Belarus
Strasbourg, 19th May 2010 - At the request of Mr. Michał Kamiński, Chairman of the ECR Group, an exchange of views with the Chairman of the United Civil Party of Belarus Anatol Lebedko and his deputy Jaroslaw Romanczuk was held on the 18 May.
The EU should not set fines or determine prosecutions for lorry drivers
Strasbourg, 18th May 2010 - The European Conservatives and Reformists group today voted against a call from the European Parliament for the EU to harmonise penalties for lorry drivers who break rules on working time, rest periods and statutory working conditions.
ECR MEPs propose reduction in Strasbourg shuttle
Strasbourg, 18th May - As the European Parliament prepares to adopt its calendar of sessions for 2011, European Conservatives and Reformists MEP Ashley Fox is leading an effort to move two Strasbourg plenary sessions into one week, reducing the cost to the European taxpayer by around €17 million per year.
Protectionist proposals for hedge funds directive
Strasbourg, 18th May 2010 - An alliance of the Communist, Green, Socialist and EPP groups in the parliament supported amendments to create a heavily protectionist Alternative Investment Fund Managers (AIFM) directive, which will make it extremely difficult for EU investors to invest in non-EU funds, Syed Kamall MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group shadow on the directive, warned today.
Michal Kaminski on the dramatic increase of human rights violation in Belarus
18th May 2010 - On May 18, 2010 Belarusian authorities undertook a dramatic assault on activists of Belarusian civil society and democratic political parties. Flats of dozens of activists of the civic campaign "Tell the truth", members of United Civil Party, Social Democratic Party and free trade unions were searched, computers, documents, leaflets and other sources of information were seized. In some cases doors of flats were smashed and police and KGB broke into apartments.
ECR group congratulates David Cameron
Brussels, 12th May 2010 - European Conservatives and Reformists group chairman Michal Kaminski MEP has welcomed David Cameron's appointment as Prime Minister, saying that it brings a powerful advocate for EU reform to the top table of decision making.
Peter van Dalen expresses condolences to victims plane crash Libya
Brussels, 12th May 2010 - As a Dutch member of the Parliament and on behalf of the ECR Group, Peter van Dalen expressed his condolences to the victims of the plane crash in Libya and their friends and families.
Als Nederlands lid van het Europees Parlement en namens de ECR Groep, heeft Peter van Dalen zijn medeleven betuigd aan de slachtoffers van de vliegramp in Libië en aan hun vrienden en familie.
The Monti report: putting the Single Market back on centre stage
Brussels, 10th May 2010 - Professor Mario Monti has published his eagerly awaited report for re-launching the Single Market today in the European Parliament in his chosen forum, the Internal Market and Consumer Protection Committee. In presenting his report, he particularly thanked the committee's own work, saying that it had contributed significantly to his final report.
Development Policy of the EU and CR: Partnership, not Competition
Brussels, 6th May 2010 - The event will be organized under the auspices of Czech Minister for European Affairs, Juraj Chmiel, Jan Zahradil MEP and in the cooperation with CEVRO, the Liberal Conservative Academy, on the 13 of May 2010 in Prague. The conference will reflect the changes brought about by the Lisbon Treaty and a new European Commission "Barroso II", the EU's new institutional and functional setting respectively.
ECR/EPP Joint Public Hearing on EU Road Transport to call for less and better regulation
Brussels, 5th May 2010 - Brussels, 5th May 2010 -- A joint public hearing held on the 12th May in the European Parliament in Brussels will bring together MEPs and European transport operators to discuss the possible impact of the extension of the Working Time Directive to self-employed drivers.
The European Parliament simplifies EU funds
Brussels, 5th May 2010 - The European Parliament has adopted a long-awaited and positive regulation to simplify access to structural funds and the EU's Cohesion Fund, which will assist the EU's economic recovery, European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) coordinator on regional policy Oldřich Vlasák MEP said today.
The EU can strengthen the competitiveness and environmental performance of its maritime sector
Brussels, 5th May 2010 - A European Parliament report highlighting the importance of the maritime transport sector to Europe's economy, authored by European Conservatives and Reformists member Peter Van Dalen MEP, has been adopted today.
Covenant of Mayors highlights effectiveness of EU cooperation over compulsion
Brussels, 4th May 2010 - Brussels, 4th May 2010 -- Today, more than 500 mayors from across the EU met in Brussels to sign the Covenant of Mayors, which commits them to cutting CO2 emission by more than 20% by 2020. Mr. Oldrich Vlasak, MEP and ECR coordinator for regional development policy commented:
Welcome for new commission energy efficient vehicles strategy
Brussels, 28th April 2010 - The European Commission's new strategy for promoting energy efficient and cleaner vehicles has been generally welcomed by ECR member Oldřich Vlasák, who is drafting the European Parliament transport committee's opinion on plans to regulate light commmercial vehicles CO2 emissions.
Kirkhope - Commission work programme must offer a foundation for economic recovery
20th April 2010 - Speaking in a debate in the European Parliament today on the European Commission's 2010 work programme, Timothy Kirkhope MEP said:
Mr President, talking of programmes, let me remind you of the lesson of the 1992 programme: for the Commission to achieve results, it needs to set one priority and focus on one policy at a time. The effort to establish the single market was a worthwhile objective which could be easily understood by all those involved – and, crucially, by the public – but since then all too frequently we have seen the Commission launching initiative after initiative, regardless of whether Europe was the appropriate forum or whether it could really deliver tangible benefits, in the futile hope that they would make it popular. That approach was wrong and it failed. We therefore welcome the new direction which has been developed by President Barroso.
Maritime transport of vital importance for European economy and infrastructure
Strasbourg, 19th April 2010 - On Monday the parliament discussed the report on the 2009-2018 Maritime Transport Strategy, drafted by ECR Member and Vice-President of the transport committee Peter van Dalen MEP.
The ECR's Belgian, Czech, Dutch, Latvian and British delegations send their condolences
Brussels, 10th April 2010 -
Polish airplane tragedy: Michal Kamiński speaks to Monika Olejnik, TVN24
Warsaw,14th April 2010 - Speaking to TVN24 ECR President Michal Kamiński spoke of his personal grief over the loss of President Kaczyński.
ECR Vice-President welcomes new ODS chairman
Brussels, 13th April 2010 - ECR Vice-President Jan Zahradil MEP has welcomed the appointment of Petr Nečas as the new acting party leader and electoral leader of the Czech Civic Democrat party. In a statement, he said: "Petr Nečas won unanimous approval from the ODS Executive Board. He will make a strong and experienced leader and I look forward to working with him to deliver our reform agenda for the EU.
Condolences of the Law and Justice Delegation in the European Parliament
Brussels, 10th April 2010 - Immersed in great sadness and pain, we express our deepest sympathies to the family of President Lech Kaczyński, his wife Maria Kaczyńska, and the families and relatives of the victims of the tragic plane crash near Smoleńsk.
Comment on President Kaczynski's plane crash
Brussels, 10th April 2010 - Commenting on the death this morning of President Kaczynski, his wife, and many Polish officials and dignitaries, Timothy Kirkhope MEP, Deputy Chairman and Jan Zahradil MEP, Vice-President of the European Conservatives and Reformists group in the European Parliament - which includes President Kaczynski's party - said:
Polish airplane tragedy: Statement of condolences from ECR President Michal Kaminski MEP and head of the ECR Polish delegation, Ryszard Legutko MEP
Brussels, 10th April 2010 -
EU Citizens initiative should give power to the people, not to lobbyists and interest groups
Brussels, 31st March 2010 - Proposals set out today for realising the European Citizens Initiative are generally sensible but the commission must ensure that the it remains a grassroots instrument, rather than a tool of lobbyists or interest groups, Syed Kamall MEP, Vice-President of the parliament's Constitutional Affairs committee, said today.
Special Committee on the Financial Crisis visits Latvia this week
30th March 2010 - The European Parliament's Special committee on Economic crisis (CRIS) is visiting Riga this week. Members will meet with the Prime Minister Valdis Dombrovskis, Minister for Finance, Minister for Welfare, Members of the Parliament, representatives of the National Bank of Latvia and the Financial and Capital Market Commission, as well as Association of Commercial banks and the Employers' Confederation of Latvia.
Permanent Swift mandate: responsibility now needed to reach agreement
Brussels, 24th March 2010 - The European Commission has listened to the European Parliament's concerns and brought forward a strong negotiating mandate today for a permanent agreement on the Terrorist Finance Tracking Programme, Timothy Kirkhope MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group coordinator on civil liberties said today.
Cross-border divorce plans: EU must respect the countries that do not take part
Brussels, 24th March - The European Commission and the ten European countries who want to take part in new EU proposals for a cross-border divorce law should respect the 17 countries who do not want to make divorce an easier option, Sajjad Karim MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group legal affairs coordinator said today.
MEPs should be critical, but also self-critical, about EU spending
Brussels, 23rd March 2010 - The European Parliament's Budgetary Control committee is rightly critical of EU spending but the parliament should also be self-critical of its own spending, Ryszard Czarnecki, budgetary control coordinator for the European Conservatives and Reformists group said today after the committee voted to water down a report by Green MEP Bart Staes.
Szymański: EU energy security takes an important step forward
Brussels, 18th March 2010 - The EU's energy security took an important step forward today after the European Parliament's industry committee adopted new legislation aiming to ensure that the EU has sufficient provisions in place prevent major disruptions to gas supplies, Konrad Szymański, European Conservatives and Reformists group member of the committee said today.
ECJ ruling on Bernard case: EU right to recognise the specificity of sport
Brussels, 16th March 2010 - Sport should remain a special case that is in some cases exempt from normal EU internal market rules, Emma McClarkin MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group sport spokesman said today after the European Court of Justice ruled that football clubs can seek compensation if they have trained a player, then they sign a professional contract in another EU country.
Hedge funds postponement in Council of Ministers welcomed
Brussels, 16th March 2010 - Commenting on the decision to postpone the consideration of the Alternative Investment Fund Managers directive at the Council of Ministers today, Syed Kamall, Conservative MEP for London who is Shadow rapporteur on the directive in the parliament said:
ECR report supporting Ukraine adopted by MEPs
16th March 2010 - The Committee on Foreign Affairs in the EP has adopted an opinion concerning macro-financial assistance for Ukraine drafted by Ryszard Legutko MEP. The document has been prepared for the International Trade Committee, which is responsible for drafting the report on this matter.
ECR wins postponement of damaging maternity proposals
Strasbourg, 11th March 2010 - European Parliament plans to grant pregnant women twenty weeks of maternity leave on full pay have been shelved pending a full impact assessment, following demands by the European Conservatives and Reformists group.
ECR group calls for release of Gilad Shalit
Strasbourg, 11th March 2010 - The European Conservatives and Reformists group in the European Parliament has supported the parliament's calls for Israeli Defence Forces Corporal Gilad Shalit to be released.
European Vioce: Vote on longer maternity leave postponed
11th March 2010 - Concern about costs to business prompts second delay in the European Parliament.
The European Parliament has postponed adopting legislation that would increase mothers' minimum right to maternity leave from 14 to 20 weeks, because of concerns that it would place too heavy a financial burden on businesses and governments
MEPs call for EU Tobin tax
Strasbourg, 10th March 2010 - A new Financial Transaction Tax to fund climate change and development are not the right way forward, ECR economic spokesman Kay Swinburne MEP warned today after the European Parliament called for their introduction - potentially at EU level.
Turf war and navel-gazing over External Action Service must end
Strasbourg, 10th March 2010 - Baroness Ashton must now bang heads together to ensure that the creation of the EU's External Action Service (EAS) does not cause the EU to return to the introspection that marked the debate over the Lisbon Treaty, Charles Tannock MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists group foreign affairs spokesman in the European Parliament, said today.
Ashton back-tracking already on EU defence policy
Strasbourg, 10th March 2010 - In the European Parliament today (10 March) Baroness Ashton 's position on the formulation of the new EU foreign and defence policy came under scrutiny from Conservative Security and Defence Spokesman Geoffrey Van Orden who commented: "EU Security and Defence Policy deliberately confuses military and civil crisis management in order to justify an EU role. It relies on a bogus narrative concerning EU operations and increasingly seeks to involve the European Commission in areas which are properly the responsibility of our nations or of Council."
Europe's inadequate response to swine flu cannot be swept under carpet, says MEP
Strasbourg, 9th March 2010 - The way the European Union responded to last year's swine flu outbreak has raised serious questions about the EU's effectiveness in a public health crisis that cannot be ignored, Marina Yannakoudakis, an ECR member of the European Parliament's environment committee, said today.
United with Lajos Bokros and MDF: ECR Bureau Visit to Budapest
Budapest, 3rd March 2010 - The delegation was led by the President of the ECR Group, Michał Kamiński, who underlined Lajos Bokros' key role in the Conservative Group and his vast knowledge and expertise in the field of economics. The leader of the Euroconservatives also noted that the plan presented by Mr Bokros is the best formula for Hungary to overcome the financial crisis.
Mirek Topolanek: The European conservatives are much more powerful within the ECR Group
Brussels, 2nd March - The former Czech Prime minister and the Czech ODS party leader Mirek Topolanek addressed the ECR Group meeting on Tuesday. He applauded the Group´s success and efforts up to now. "Your constructive and hard work in the committees shows the ECR as a serious partner for the centre-right wing in the European Parliament. You have already proven to be a reasonable mainstream group and I´m sure the ECR Group will be much more powerful in the future," Mirek Topolanek said.
EU2020 strategy: jobs and growth need the Single Market
Brussels, 3rd March 2010 - The widely anticipated EU2020 strategy published today will take the European economy in the right direction, but only if national governments take the plans off of the drawing board and deliver them, the European Conservatives and Reformists group in the European Parliament, said today.
ECR votes against increasing European Parliament's administrative expenditure
Brussels, 25th February 2010 - The European Conservatives and Reformists group in the European Parliament has today voted against proposals to increase the number of staff posts in the parliament, and to increase the secretarial allowance available for MEPs, Lajos Bokros MEP, ECR budgets coordinator said today.
Common Fisheries Policy needs urgent reform
Brussels, 25th February 2010 - The Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) needs root and branch reform so that a more regional policy can take account of the positions of scientists and fishermen, Marek Gróbarczyk MEP, fisheries coordinator for the European Conservatives and Reformists group in the European Parliament, said today after MEPs adopted their report on the CFP Green Paper.
Broad support for report on European Maritime Policy
23rd February 2010 - The Transport committee of the European Parliament expressed broad support for the draft report on the EU maritime policy untill 2018, of MEP Peter van Dalen (Christian Union, ECR-group) yesterday.
EU urged to keep up pressure on Mugabe
Strasbourg, 11th February 2010 - The EU must keep up the pressure on Mugabe. That is the message from MEPs to EU government Ministers as they consider the EU's "restrictive measures", due for renewal next week (February 16). These restrictions have been in place since 2002 and are reviewed annually. Geoffrey Van Orden MEP, who spearheads the European Parliament's campaign for freedom and democratic change in Zimbabwe, has urged EU countries to renew their restrictions.
Swift agreement's rejection: MEPs have cut off their noses to spite their faces
Strasbourg, 11th February 2010 -
EU on track for further enlargement, ECR group says
Strasbourg, 10th February 2010 - In a European Parliament debate on the progress made by Croatia, Turkey and Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia towards EU membership, the European Conservatives and Reformists group said that Croatia is on track for membership, whilst other countries are making progress.
ECR group abstains on new European Commission and calls for reform of the confirmation procedure
9th February 2010 - The European Conservatives and Reformists group in the European Parliament has abstained in today’s vote on the new European Commission, saying that it cannot offer the same confidence in the new college as a whole as it has in President Barroso.
ECR response to European Commission's 2020 agenda
Strasboug, 9th JFabruary 2010 - The European Conservatives and Reformists group in the European Parliament has published its response to the EU's proposed 2020 strategy, which aims to set out a new agenda post the EU's Lisbon Strategy.
Ukraine Election Rules - changes raise concerns. Elmar Brok MEP and Charles Tannock MEP
Brussels, 4th February 2010 - MEPs Charles Tannock and Elmar Brok (respectively EPP and ECR Group Coordinators in the Foreign Affairs Committee) today raised in an exchange of views with the Spanish Presidency the astonishing last minute changes in Ukraine's electoral law passed yesterday in the Ukrainian Verkhovna Rada.
EU approval for new Latvian thermal power plant welcomed
Brussels, 1st February 2010 - The EU's approval of state support to a new thermal power plant in Latvia has been welcomed by Roberts Zile, Latvian MEP from the European Conservatives and Reformists group, as a move that will significantly reduce the Baltic region's dependence on Russia for electricity supplies.
Beware of EU Defence "Smoke and Mirrors," says Geoffrey Van Orden
Brussels, 28th January 2010 - Madeleine Albright, former US Secretary of State, came to the European Parliament's Foreign Affairs Committee yesterday evening to set out details of her review of Nato's "Strategic Concept". She leads a group of 12 experts tasked to produce results by the summer. The Strategic Concept provides the basis for Nato's organisation and operational roles.
New EU telecoms body starts work on opening up Europe's telecoms market
Brussels, 28th January 2010 - A new EU body tasked with boosting the EU single market for telecoms has met for the first time today. Malcolm Harbour, the chairman of the European Parliament's internal market committee for the European Conservatives and Reformists group was present at the launch.
European Commission must create solutions for inland shipping
Brussels, 26th January 2010 - "The European Commission must think of solutions for Europe's struggling inland shipping companies, rather than just paying lip service to their problems", Peter Van Dalen, MEP for the European Conservatives and Reformists group and Vice-Chairman of the Transport committee in the European Parliament said today as he opened a debate with the European Commission aimed at addressing the crisis in inland shipping.
Kirkhope: Spain's socialist government should not force command-and-control economics on the EU
Strasbourg, 20th January 2010 - Spanish Prime Minister Zapatero has been told that command-and-control socialist policies are irrelevant to the 21st century by European Conservatives and Reformists deputy leader Timothy Kirkhope MEP, during a debate in the European Parliament this morning
Haiti: EU should focus on complementing national governments' efforts in the aftermath
Strasbourg, 19th January 2010 - Speaking in the debate, European Conservatives and Reformists development coordinator Nirj Deva said that following every humanitarian crisis the key challenge is broken infrastructure. He suggested that world powers may wish to think about radical solutions that could lay down basic infrastructure to ensure that aid gets to everyone who needs it. Baroness Ashton agreed with Deva that infrastructure was of paramount importance to the success of the operation.
EU must support Iran's people but punish its regime
19th January 2010 - European Conservatives and Reformists group foreign affairs coordinator, Charles Tannock MEP, has called on EU High Representative Ashton to hit the Iranian regime with sanctions that are "targeted and extremely damaging", but to support the people of Iran who identify with our values of freedom, democracy and the rule of law.
Michal Kaminski's priorities for the Spanish Presidency
Brussels, 15th January 2010 - The eventful Swedish Presidency looks set to be followed by another lively six months, with many challenges and crises for the Spanish to overcome. Already, much of the commentary has focused on how the rotating Presidency's senior figures will interact with the holders of the new posts created by the Lisbon Treaty. Of course, the next few weeks will set an important direction for the future institutional functioning of the EU post-Lisbon. Commissioner Ashton and Herman Van Rompuy are servants of the Council of Ministers, whilst Mr Zapatero is one if its 27 masters and I hope that we continue to see a clear role for the rotating Presidency.
Professor Mario Monti attends ECR group meeting
Strasbourg, 15th December 2009 - Professor Mario Monti, a former European Commissioner who has been asked by commission president Barroso to prepare a high-level report on completion of the Single Market, held an exchange of views with the ECR group on the 15th December 2009.
EU must defend the territorial integrity of Georgia
Strasbourg, 16th December 2009 - Speaking in a debate in the European Parliament last night, European Conservatives and Reformists chairman Michal Kaminski MEP, called on the EU to regain some credibility in its talks with Georgia by standing up to Russian aggression.
WTO Talks: Protectionism will not only harm us but also those we seek to hel says ECR Group
Strasbourg, 16th December 2009 - MEPs in Strasbourg quizzed the European Commission on the ongoing WTO talks and the Doha Round. While the communists and socialists called for the creation of a new world order with mass centralisation, the right of the house agreed on a common statement drafted by ECR Vice-Chairman Jan Zahradil.
Banana agreement welcomed
Strasbourg, 15th December 2009 - The EU's move to end the banana war with Latin America has been broadly welcomed by Robert Sturdy MEP, international trade spokesman of the European Conservatives and Reformists group, but the money promised to compensate African, Caribbean and Pacific countries must reach the producers.
Copenhagen agreement requires realism from richer nations
Brussels, 8th December 2009 - 8th December, Brussels -- ECR environment coordinator Miroslav Ouzky will represent the European Parliament's environment committee at the Copenhagen conference next week. Speaking before the meeting, he said:
Czech Commissioner-designate to ECR group meeting
7th December, Brussels - Czech Commissioner-designate Stefan Fule, who has been proposed for the Enlargement and European Neighbourhood Policy portfolio, will be meeting the ECR group at its meeting on Tuesday, 8th December 2009. The meeting will be closed but Czech Vice-President of the ECR, Jan Zahradil, will be available for comment afterwards.
The world´s prominent experts to discuss the economic prosperity
Brussles, 7th December 2009 - The European Conservatives and Reformists Group (ECR) and leading independent free market think tanks in Europe and the US - Adriatic Institute for Public Policy, The Heritage Foundation, Open Europe and Atlas Economic Research Foundation join forces in co-hosting the sixth annual International Leaders Summit on 8 December 2009 in the European Parliament, Brussels featuring prominent experts on economics and security.
Kaminski: The EU must keep Ukraine as a top priority
4th December 2009 - Ukraine must remain a top priority to Brussels, Michal Kaminski MEP, chairman of the European Conservatives and Reformists group in the European Parliament said today as the EU and Ukraine hold a summit.
Mises Circle - Two Concepts of Liberty
3rd December 2009 - ECR MEP Nirj Deva in cooperation with the Brussels-based Mises Youth Club, set up the Mises circle as a small, informal monthly get-together for Members, Assistants and Commission officials to discuss politics and economics from a free market Austrian School perspective.
Ill-judged maternity leave extension back on the agenda
Brussels, 1st December 2009 - EU proposals to increase maternity leave to a minimum of 18 weeks - shelved before the European elections - have been revived, Marina Yannakoudakis, women's committee spokesman and Milan Cabrnoch, employment spokesman for the European Conservatives and Reformists group in the European Parliament, warned today.
Doha should not be the elephant in the room at WTO talks
30th November 2009 - Sidelining the round will scupper a deal, ECR trade spokesman warns.
The EU is failing to show leadership in the World Trade Organisation talks in Geneva by allowing the Doha trade round to be sidelined, Robert Sturdy MEP, European Conservatives and Reformists trade spokesman in the European Parliament, has warned.
MEPs will push up flight prices to create compensation fund
Strasbourg, 25th November 2009 - There are better ways to protect consumers from airline bankruptcy, ECR says.
A demand by MEPs today to create an EU fund for the victims of airline bankruptcy is the wrong approach to the problem, which would add to the plethora of extra charges placed onto an airline ticket, ECR transport spokesman Roberts Zile MEP and transport committee member Jacqueline Foster MEP, warned today.
New EU package heralds a new age for internet and telecoms consumers
Strasbourg, 24th November - The EU's Telecoms package, which will increase consumer rights, create a more competitive telecoms market, and make high-speed internet more accessible, has been given the final thumbs up by the European Parliament today after more than two years work. Malcolm Harbour MEP, Chairman of the parliament's internal market committee who steered the package's consumer rights provisions through the parliament, and ECR industry spokesman Giles Chichester MEP, hailed its adoption.
Kaminski: EU2020 strategy should have clear focus on completing the single market
Strasbourg, 24th November 2009 - The launch of the EU's 2020 strategy aimed at building on the EU's Lisbon strategy for jobs and growth has been broadly welcomed today by Michal Kaminski MEP, Chairman of the European Conservatives and Reformists group in the European Parliament.
Speech on the plenary session of the European Parliament on the Slovak language law
Strasbourg, 24th November 2009 - The Slovak language is one of the most beautiful languages of Europe. It is unfortunate, therefore, that it is very seldom heard in the European Parliament. As a true friend of Slovakia, a supporter of its development, a modest but active contributor to the famous and groundbreaking Slovak reforms and, of course, as a Hungarian I wish to help my Slovak friends to reduce this disadvantage and make the Slovak language more audible, well-known and popular for a widest possible audience. That is the way to preserve as much as it is possible the rich and diverse Slovak language and culture. It is clearly in the interest of all of us.
Leader of the ECR Group delivered key note at the ODS Congress in Prague
Prague, 20th November 2009 - It is a great honour and I am truly touched that I am able to stand before you - dear friends of the ODS - as the leader of our common group in the European Parliament. Actually, I should not say "friends" but "brothers." Because, ever since I was a child, I have been taught to speak about the Czech nation as "our Czech brothers." This beautiful city where we are today is a testimony of how much the Czechs have given - and continue to give - to Europe, testimony of how much they have given to Poles. It is in Prague that the mother of the first Polish king - Bolesław Chrobry - is buried: the Czech princess Dobrawa
ECR Chairman Michal Kaminski congratulates Herman Van Rompuy and Baroness Ashton
Brussels, 19th November 2009 - The Chairman of the European Conservatives and Reformists Group in the European Parliament, Michal Kaminski MEP, has congratulated the new President of the Council of Ministers and High Representative.
Chairman of European Parliament Consumer Protection Committee Welcoms Huge Drop in Complaints about Phoney Ring Tones Following EU-Wide Sweep
Brussels, 17th November 2009 - Brussels 17 November 2009. The Chairman of the European Parliament's Consumer Protection Committee Malcolm Harbour MEP today welcomed the European Commissions crackdown on mobile phone scams that have seen complaints in the UK drop by 60%.
Late Payments Directive - another blow for the public finance
Brussels, 12th November 2009 - Brussels, 12th November 2009 -- The Commission insists that all public institutions such as the ministries, regions, municipalities and even regional hospitals, schools or theatres should pay a penalty in the amount of 5% for each invoice paid later than within the 30-day maturity, even if the delay was a single day.
Poręba, Kamiński and Tannock (ECR) introduced important amendments to the European Parliament's resolution on the upcoming EU-Russia Summit
12th November 2009 - During the EP's plenary session in Brussels, a resolution concerning the upcoming EU-Russia summit was adopted. Thanks to the amendments tabled by Tomasz Poręba, Michał Kamiński, and Charles Tannock, a very weak position of the resolution (which was mostly prepared under the Socialists' umbrella) was strengthened by amendments extremely important for the whole EU.
Vaclav Havel addressed the European Parliament
Brussels, 11th November 2009 - Former Czech president Vaclav Havel, one of the world´s most famous opponents of communism, opened the plenary session of The European Parliament on Wednesday. In an hour long speech he called on the democratic world for their ongoing and stout opposition to all forms of authoritarian and totalitarian regimes. He also expressed his support for further European integration.
The 20th Anniversary of the Fall of the Berlin Wall
10th November 2009 - As we commemorate the twentieth anniversary of the fall of the Berlin wall, we can look back on the transformation of Eastern Europe. In just two decades our nations have thrown off the yolk of communism and become major actors in the European Union.
EU's accounting moving forward - but far too slowly
Brussels, 10th November 2009 - Brussels, 10th November 2009 -- Improvements are being made in the EU's accounting practices but there is still a long way to go before the auditors can give the accounts a clean bill of health, Ryszard Czarnecki MEP, budgetary control spokesman for the European Conservatives and Reformists group in the European Parliament (ECR), said after the Court of Auditors published its report on the EU's 2008 spending.
New telecoms rules agreed by MEPs and EU governments
Brussels, 5th November 2009 - Brussels, 5th November 2009 -- A new EU package on telecoms that will deliver major benefits to consumers and drive innovation and investment in the communications industry has been given the green light by MEPs and EU governments. Malcolm Harbour MEP, ECR chairman of the European Parliament's internal market committee, played a key role in getting the final deal agreed.
Founding of the "Alliance of European Conservatives and Reformists (AECR)" asbl/vzw
30th October 2009 - On October 1st, a first meeting was convened to approve the Statutes of a new organisation, the "Alliance of European Conservatives and Reformists, (AECR)".
The birth of a new foundation: "New Direction- Foundation for European Reform" asbl/vzw
30th October 2009 - On October 1st, a first meeting was convened to approve the Statutes of a new organisation: "New Direction- Foundation for European Reform".
EU pledge to cut red tape is welcome but action must follow words says conservative MEP
22nd October, Strasbourg - Strasbourg 22 October 2009. The European Commission today published a report updating how it plans to meet its commitment of reducing red tape by 25% by 2012.
ECR Industry spokesman in Brussels Giles Chichester today welcomed the renewed commitment to cutting red tape but wants the Commission to step up their efforts further.
EU's development focus on fragile states welcomed
22nd October 2009, Strasbourg - ECR group says focus will be beneficial for poorer nations and European taxpayers
Strasbourg, 22nd October 2009 -- The EU's development agenda will be more effective and less wasteful for European taxpayers if it can help tackle 'fragile states', Nirj Deva MEP, Development spokesman for the European Conservatives and Reformists Group in the European Parliament, said today after the commission published plans to deal with fragility in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Recreational anglers: Conservative campaign scores success
20th October 2009 - Proposals to include recreational anglers in the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) have been watered down by EU ministers after a Conservative campaign in the European Parliament, Struan Stevenson MEP, Conservative fisheries spokesman, said today.
Landmine problem hasn’t gone away
16th October 2009 - Ten years after the Ottawa Treaty to ban anti-personnel landmines (APL) and on the eve of the Second Review Conference, the European Parliament has been holding a workshop to review progress.
156 states have now acceded to the Treaty, large areas have been cleared of mines, there are fewer mine victims. But since 1997, the international community has spent $4 billion on mine action around the world, casualties still run at over 5,000 a year, more than a dozen states still produce APL, and terrorists and insurgents continue to be the main users of this banned weapon.
Peter van Dalen supports Globalisation Fund support for the Netherlands
15th October 2009 - Peter van Dalen MEP has welcomed the European Commission's proposed allocation of € 386,114 to assist the 435 workers made redundant by Dutch construction company Heijmans N.V. back into employment.
Israeli ambassador calls for closer cooperation with conservatives in the EP
13th October 2009 - The ECR Group had its first Ambassadorial visit yesterday when the ambassador of Israel, H.E. Ran Curiel spoke to the Group meeting.
T. Kirkhope: Speech to Party Conference in Manchester
8th October 2009 - Mr Chairman, Conference,
I am absolutely delighted to be here today not only as the Leader of the UK Conservative delegation in the European Parliament but, for the first time, as the Deputy Chairman of our new group: the European Conservatives and Reformists.
ECR group blocks extension of the Working Time Directive
30th September 2009 - The European Conservatives and Reformists Group (ECR) in the European Parliament was last night instrumental in blocking efforts of socialist MEPs to extend the EU's Working Time Directive to self-employed drivers.
ECR Group calls on commission to scrutinise the proposed GM deal
Brussels, 29th September 2009 - Vicky Ford MEP, Conservative Spokesman on Economic and Monetary Affairs in the European Parliament, today grilled EU Competition Commissioner Neelie Kroes on GM's potential sale of Opel and specifically the potential impact for UK workers in Ellesmere Port and Luton.
Ipod volumes: more information needed but users should remain free to choose
Brussels, 28th September 2009 - The chairman of the European Parliament's consumer protection committee, Malcolm Harbour MEP, has welcomed the European Commission's proposals that encourage users of personal music players to keep the volume down whilst continuing to allow personal choice, however he has asked the commission to ensure that such an agreement be voluntary with manufacturers.
EU financial regulation goes too far towards subjugation rather than cooperation
Brussels, 23rd September 2009 - Proposals published by the European Commission today for a pan-European risk board and three watchdogs to oversee banks, securities and insurers, do not go far enough to protect the role of national regulators, Kay Swinburne MEP, Economic and Monetary Affairs coordinator for the European Conservatives and Reformists Group in the European Parliament, said today.
Banks should be more transparent with their fees
Brussels, 22nd September 2009 - Today's threatened action against banks by the European Commission should be enough for them to voluntarily improve their price structures and ensure consumers are given the best deal possible from their current accounts, Malcolm Harbour MEP, Chairman of the European Parliament's consumer protection committee, said today.
CAUTIOUS WELCOME FOR DAIRY SECTOR CRISIS MEASURES FROM ECR GROUP
Strasbourg, 17th September 2009 - Northern Ireland MEP Jim Nicholson, Agriculture Coordinator in the European Parliament for the European Conservatives and Reformists Group, gave a cautious welcome to a series of measures adopted by MEPs today to address the crisis in the dairy sector.
Tragedy of typhoon offers new chance for Taiwan's UN participation, says Tory MEP
Strasbourg, 17th September 2009 - The devastation caused by Typhoon Morakot in Taiwan should spur the international community to deepen its support for Taiwan's goal of participating as an observer in United Nations organisations, Conservative foreign affairs spokesman in the European Parliament Charles Tannock will say today during a debate in Strasbourg.
Kaminski: Barroso is the right man for the job
Strasbourg, 16th September 2009 - Commenting on the re-election of President Barroso for the post of Commission President, Michal Kaminski MEP, Chairman of the European Conservatives and Reformists Group in the European Parliament, said:
