§ Mr. NormanTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what is his policy on incorporation of the Charter of Fundamental Rights into the EU Treaties; and if he will make a statement. [107364]
§ Mr. VazWe believe that a Charter which sets out rights already enjoyed by EU citizens in a clear and accessible way will help to deepen and strengthen the culture of rights and responsibilities at all levels across the EU. We consider that these objectives can best be met if the Charter is drafted as a declaratory document, identifying and complementing existing legal instruments on fundamental rights. We do not therefore favour the Charter's incorporation into the Treaties.