HC Deb 12 December 2000 vol 359 cc478-9
17. Mr. John Wilkinson (Ruislip-Northwood)

What recent discussions he has held with his French, German and Italian counterparts about reinforced co-operation between member states of the EU. [141977]

The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Mr. Keith Vaz)

Several.

Mr. Wilkinson

In his statement yesterday, the Prime Minister took pride in the fact that there are issues on which some EU member states can move ahead faster than others. At the same time, however, that process will be subject to the national veto. How are those positions compatible, particularly since any grouping of member states comprising more than 38 per cent. of the population of the EU can, in effect, go ahead and do what it wants?

Mr. Vaz

Not on defence.

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