§ Mr. Llew SmithTo ask the Prime Minister what initiatives he intends to take as President of the European Council to establish greater openness and transparency in the work of the Council and of the Committee of Permanent Representatives' support role for Council meetings.
§ The Prime MinisterUnder the rules of procedure of the Council, meetings of the Council are not public unless the Council unanimously decides otherwise. The same rules apply to COREPER. We do not intend to seek a change in the rules. However, we shall also continue to ensure that this House is fully consulted throughout the established scrutiny procedures.