§ Mr. LawsTo ask the Prime Minister what plans he has to bring forward proposals to define and limit the powers of European Union institutions; and if he will make a statement. [1452]
§ The Prime MinisterThe declaration on the future of the Union (Declaration 23) attached to the treaty of Nice lists
the precise delimitation of powers between the European Union and member states reflecting the principle of subsidiarityas one of the issues to be addressed by the inter-governmental conference in 2004.The declaration also states that these discussions should be preceded by a deep and wide debate with all those representing public opinion. That debate has already begun. As I said in my speech in Warsaw in October 2000, the future shape of the institutions should concentrate on delivering real benefits to people in the areas that matter most to them. They should also ensure that the EU becomes more transparent, accountable and relevant.