§ Mr. Roseasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether he will seek, in his current negotiations with the EEC, the extension of the powers of the European Parliament.
§ Mr. HattersleyNo. At the Council meeting on 4th June Her Majesty's Government lifted their reserve on a package of proposals relating to the budgetary powers of the European Assembly and the establishment of an audit court. My right hon. Friend explained to the Council that ratification by the United Kingdom of the consequential treaty amendments could not be considered until progress had been achieved on renegotiation.
§ Mr. Roseasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether, in his current negotiations with the EEC, he will seek the democratisation of the European Parliament through direct elections.
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§ Mr. HattersleyNo. The question is being discussed in the Community but it is not a matter on which Her Majesty's Government would wish to make proposals during renegotiation.