EU Parliament Demands von der Leyen Revise Budget to Avoid Rejection
Concerns have arisen among EU lawmakers regarding the European Commission’s proposed national plans for budget allocation. These plans suggest consolidating funds for farmers and regions, which collectively account for nearly half of the EU’s €1.8 trillion budget. Lawmakers argue that shifting these funds to be managed solely by the 27 member governments undermines regional involvement in the funding process.
Lawmakers Demand Revisions to Budget Proposal
A draft statement from the lawmakers expresses dissatisfaction with the current proposal. “As the current proposal on the national plans does not take our core requests into consideration, it cannot constitute a basis for negotiations,” it reads. Lawmakers are calling for key requests to be integrated into a revised proposal from the European Commission to facilitate negotiations.
Pressure Mounts for Compromise
The letter emphasizes the urgency of reaching an agreement. If negotiations remain stalled, four political groups plan to propose a resolution in the full parliamentary session scheduled for November 12. This resolution would reject the national plans component of the budget altogether.
Concerns Over Centralization
The Commission defends the national plans by arguing they enable governments to tailor EU funding to their specific economic needs. This model is expected to create stronger links between financial assistance and governmental economic reforms. However, lawmakers contend that it consolidates power within central governments, diminishing the role of significant regional authorities in managing EU funds.
Demands for Rural Development Funding
Among the most pressing demands from these political groups is the need for designated funding for rural development and equitable support for all regions. This critical aspect is notably absent from the current budget proposal, prompting lawmakers to seek significant amendments before a consensus can be reached.
