§ Baroness Rawlingsasked Her Majesty's Government:
What form of proportional representation is being considered for the 1999 European elections; and
What consultations are taking place and with whom on the introduction of proportional representation for European elections; and
What is the last date for introducing legislation on proportional representation to enable it to be effective for the 1999 European elections; and
Whether, in accordance with the provisions of the Maastricht Treaty, which stipulate that there should be a common electoral procedure in different member states, they will implement the de Gucht Report in time for the 1999 European elections.
§ Lord Williams of MostynThe Government's election manifesto contained a firm commitment to introducing a proportional system for electing Members of the European Parliament. No decision has yet been taken on the timing for this change and, accordingly, it would be premature to speculate on the type of proportional system that would be most suitable or to begin consultations on the subject.
In order to give time for proper consultation and preparation it would be preferable for the necessary legislation to have been enacted some 9–12 months before the elections took place under a new system. We have no present plans to introduce legislation on proportional representation for European elections this session but if an opportunity to legislate arose we would consider taking it.