HL Deb 31 March 1999 vol 599 cc78-9WA
The Earl of Dundonald

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What is the timescale for entering discussions with the European Union on amending the European Parliamentary Elections Act 1978 to secure the right of Gibraltarians to vote in European elections. [HL1730]

Lord Williams of Mostyn

Extension of the European parliamentary franchise to Gibraltar will require amendment of the 1976 European Communities Act on Direct Elections. This will require the agreement on all European Union member states.

The United Kingdom tabled the necessary amendment on 16 March and we expect it to be considered as part of the negotiations on establishing common principles for European Parliamentary elections which are currently underway.

Once the 1976 Act has been amended, primary domestic United Kingdom legislation will be needed.